Denzel Washington Reveals the Album That Changed His Perspective Forever!

Denzel Washington is known for his commanding presence on screen and his ability to portray characters with incredible depth. Over the years, he’s cemented his place as one of Hollywood’s most iconic actors, earning critical acclaim and numerous awards, including two Academy Awards. While Washington’s impressive career has brought him into the spotlight for his acting prowess, his personal tastes and influences remain more private. However, in a candid 2012 conversation with Grantland, Washington shared something unexpected: his all-time favorite album.

When asked about music that had a significant impact on his life, Washington didn’t hesitate. “Oh, wow. Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On. I just loved it,” he said. For someone who is rarely known for effusive praise, his simple yet definitive response stood out. When pressed further on how the album had changed his life, Washington clarified, “I mean, it didn’t change my life, but I just remember it, when it came out, and Marvin had that cool Nehru jacket on, and it was raining, and he had that [collar] thing up.”

While the memory of the album’s cover art, with Gaye dressed in a stylish Nehru jacket, clearly stuck with Washington, the music itself played an undeniable role. What’s Going On, released in 1971, is widely considered one of the most groundbreaking albums of all time, influencing countless artists and reshaping the landscape of soul music.

Marvin Gaye’s Political Masterpiece

Marvin Gaye was already a major star in Motown when What’s Going On was released, known for hits like “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)” and “I Heard It Through the Grapevine.” However, this album marked a dramatic departure from the lighthearted love songs that had defined much of his career. Gaye was deeply affected by the social and political turmoil in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s—particularly the Civil Rights Movement and the protests against the Vietnam War, which were met with violent resistance by law enforcement.

In an effort to express his disillusionment with the world around him, Gaye chose to tackle issues like poverty, war, and racial injustice head-on with What’s Going On. The album was a stark contrast to the upbeat, Motown sound that had previously been his trademark, featuring more complex, mournful tones and a reflective, deeply personal approach to songwriting. His layered vocals and poignant lyrics created a mood of introspection and social consciousness, making it a milestone in both his career and the music industry.

Gaye also drew inspiration from his brother’s letters from Vietnam, which chronicled the horrors of war, and was still grieving the death of his close friend and Motown collaborator, Tammi Terrell. These personal and political experiences fueled the album’s thematic focus on the struggles of the time and provided the emotional weight that made it resonate with audiences.

An Album That Defined a Generation

Despite its divergence from Gaye’s earlier work, What’s Going On became an instant success, both critically and commercially. It resonated with a generation that was grappling with societal issues and searching for a soundtrack to their activism. The album’s exploration of the human condition, its plea for understanding and change, and its rejection of the status quo made it a cultural touchstone.

Even decades after its release, What’s Going On remains one of the most highly acclaimed albums in music history. It has consistently appeared in discussions of the greatest albums ever recorded, with many critics lauding its blend of musical innovation and socio-political commentary. Its influence continues to be felt in the work of modern musicians and is often referenced as one of the most important albums in the history of popular music.

Denzel Washington’s Connection to the Album

Washington’s choice of What’s Going On as his favorite album is no coincidence. The album’s ability to transcend its time and place, and speak to universal themes of struggle and empathy, likely resonates deeply with Washington, who has often taken on roles that deal with complex social and political issues. Whether playing Malcolm X, a corrupt cop, or a vigilante, Washington’s characters often grapple with the very themes that Gaye explored in his music: justice, personal responsibility, and the search for meaning in a world filled with chaos.

In some ways, Washington’s admiration for Gaye’s album also speaks to the actor’s own artistic sensibilities. Much like Gaye, Washington has consistently chosen roles that challenge audiences and confront the realities of the world we live in. His career has been marked by a commitment to portraying powerful, often transformative characters—those who confront their circumstances head-on, much like Gaye did with his music.

Conclusion

Denzel Washington’s candid admiration for Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On offers a glimpse into the personal tastes and influences that have shaped the actor. The album’s poignant social commentary and emotional depth are qualities that resonate not just with music lovers, but with anyone who understands the importance of art as a reflection of the human experience. For Washington, What’s Going On remains a timeless work of art, one that continues to inspire and evoke feelings of empathy, much like his own performances on screen.