What's Goin' On
(41/100 Greatest Albums Ever)

Leaving aside its laudable political agenda, this is an album of unabashed musical excitement – stylish, inventive, and richly melodic – featuring one of the truly great soul voices at the peak of his powers. Gaye abandoned the more radio-friendly lyrical themes he'd perfected on prior releases, to deliver a concept album documenting the poverty, decay and violence he witnessed in America at the time.