Marvin Gaye, born Marvin Pentz Gay Jr. on April 2, 1939, in Washington, D.C., was a seminal American soul singer-songwriter and producer. Emerging from the Motown scene, he earned the titles "Prince of Motown" and "Prince of Soul" for his profound influence on the genre. Gaye's versatile vocal range and emotive delivery are showcased in classics like "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" and "What's Going On." His 1971 album, *What's Going On*, is hailed as a landmark in music history, blending social commentary with innovative soundscapes. Gaye's legacy endures, inspiring generations of artists and listeners worldwide. ([britannica.com](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Marvin-Gaye?utm_source=openai))