Live At The London Palladium

This is the second of Marvin Gaye’s two live albums from the 70s, and in many respects, it surpasses the first. Recorded at the London Palladium, the album features three sides of soulful medleys introduced by Marvin himself, transitioning into well-arranged combinations of classic tunes with superb instrumentation. While straight cuts like “Since I Had You”, “Let’s Get It On”, “Trouble Man”, and “Come Get To This” are included, the medleys steal the show, particularly the one on side 2 resembling a condensed version of the album “What’s Going On”. Side 4 opens with the slamming studio track “Got To Give It Up”, an extended funky groover showcasing Marvin’s prowess on keyboards and Jack Ashford’s cool rhythm work. Overall, it’s a very funky record and Marvin’s successful attempt at a club hit!

Marvin Gaye, a soul music icon, revolutionized the industry with his smooth vocals and socially conscious lyrics. From hits like “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” to his groundbreaking album “What’s Going On,” Gaye’s music transcended genres and inspired generations. Tragically, his life was cut short in 1984, but his legacy continues to shape the world of music today.