Cheryl Craigie – What’s Going On (2026)
Finding passion for music as a young child, singer-songwriter Cheryl Craigie has followed a musical adventure, bringing solace, compassion, understanding and pure connection through her melodies. While the core of Craigie’s music is to discover and share inspiration, her music is varied, so it doesn’t matter what you listen to; the hope of finding hope, optimism and a place of comfort is always there. We came across Craigie last year with her single, ‘I’m Only Me When I’m With You’ – a folk reimagination of Taylor Swift’s pop song. Today, she tackles Marvin Gaye’s iconic ‘What’s Going On’.
Produced by Craigie and long-time collaborator Eric Goldberg, with mixing by Lenny Delorey, this version of ‘What’s Going On’ leans toward the soulfulness of Gaye’s original. Soft, shimmering keyboards weave with gentle guitars and steady drums keeping pace in the background. Mellifluous and laid-back, this track has a tranquil languidness oozing from every chord. The one difference is the vocals. Instead of Gaye’s sensual hush, Craigie’s tender alto dances across the song with honey-drenched sophistication.
One aspect of Craigie’s music is how she offers universal, timeless themes. This cover might drag us back to yesteryear’s Motown scene, but its theme and message defy time, generations and genre preference. Gentle and light-hearted, but juxtaposed with the profundity of a challenging world, ‘What’s Going On’ captures the heart of human experience. Craigie explains:
“’What’s Going On’ is one of those rare songs that remains just as relevant today as when it was first released. Its message of understanding, compassion, and concern for one another transcends generations. I wanted to record a version that honours Marvin Gaye’s masterpiece while sharing those sentiments in my own voice. My hope is that listeners will connect with the song’s message and find inspiration in its call for unity and kindness.”
Sincere, sentimental and soothing, Craigie’s ‘What’s Going On’ doesn’t really show individuality or a reinvention of the 1971 original. Then again, why fiddle about with something so poignant, beautiful and memorable?
Find out more about Cheryl Craigie on her official website, X, Instagram, SoundCloud and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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