Soul/Review Cheryl Craigie - What's Going On

Cheryl Craigie is an independent singer, songwriter, and musician. Singing since childhood, her passion for composing original music has blossomed in recent years. Her original songs evoke powerful emotions about love and life. To date, she has co-produced nine songs with Eric Goldberg, including three originals.

“What’s Going On” by Cheryl Craigie is a sincere and thoughtfully crafted reinterpretation of one of the most iconic protest songs ever written by Marvin Gaye. Rather than attempting to replicate the original’s legendary sound, Craigie approaches the track with restraint and reverence, allowing its timeless message to resonate through her own artistic lens.

From the very first note, her warm, expressive vocals take center stage. There’s a quiet intimacy in her delivery that shifts the song’s tone from collective outcry to personal reflection. Where Gaye’s version feels expansive and communal, Craigie’s interpretation feels close and contemplative—like a conversation rather than a declaration. This subtle shift works in her favor, emphasizing the emotional core of the lyrics.

The arrangement is deliberately understated, giving space for the song’s themes of compassion, unity, and understanding to breathe. Craigie’s decision to perform all vocals and instrumentation herself adds another layer of authenticity, reinforcing the sense that this is a deeply personal project. The production by Eric Goldberg is polished yet unobtrusive, while mixing engineer Lenny Delorey ensures clarity and balance throughout.

What makes this version particularly compelling is its relevance. Decades after its original release, the song’s message remains strikingly current, and Craigie’s interpretation gently reminds listeners of that enduring truth. She doesn’t modernize the song through heavy stylistic changes; instead, she lets its meaning speak for itself.

As her ninth release, “What’s Going On” highlights Cheryl Craigie’s versatility and commitment to meaningful music. It stands as a respectful tribute that not only honors a classic but also reaffirms its importance in today’s world.