Product Description
STREET DATE 4/01/22
This premium vinyl release features direct-to-analog mastering from the original primary album tape reels by acclaimed engineer Kevin Gray, one of the first times this has been done since 1971, offering an undeniably authentic listening experience.
What's Going On: 50th Anniversary 2LP Edition bonus LP opens up the album's writing and production palette. Featured are four rare cuts making their vinyl debut, highlighted by a previously unreleased "stripped" version of the title song, plus all six original mono single mixes and their B-sides, with all of those 7" versions on vinyl for the first time since their original releases. With two 180gm records, a tip-on heavy stock jacket, an original gatefold with complete lyrics, this formidable release also includes printed sleeves with track details, a rare image from the cover sessions, and a brief essay honoring arranger David Van De Pitte.
The main essay was written by acclaimed author and poet Hanif Abdurraqib who was just named one of the 25 recipients of the 2021 MacArthur "Genius" Grant.
Features
50th Anniversary Edition
180g Double Vinyl LP
Mastered Direct-to-Analog from the Original Primary Tape Reels
Mastered by Kevin Gray
4 Rare Cuts on Vinyl for the First Time
Previously Unreleased "Stripped" Version of the Title Track
All 6 Original Mono Single Mixes & Their B-Sides
All 7" Versions on Vinyl for the First Time Since 1971
Tip-On Heavy Stock Jacket
Original Gatefold
Complete Lyrics
Printed Sleeves with Track Details
Rare Image from the Cover Sessions
Essay by Hanif Abdurraqib
Selections
Side One (Original Album):
What's Going On
What's Happening Brother
Flyin' High (In The Friendly Sky)
Save The Children
God Is Love
Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)
Side Two (Original Album):
Right On
Wholy Holy
Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)
Side Three (Bonus Tracks):
What's Going On - Stripped Version (Previously Unreleased)
What's Going On (Mix 1/No Strings or Horns)
What's Going On - rhythm & strings instrumental mix
Symphony (Demo)
Side Four (Bonus Tracks):
What's Going On (Original Mono Single Mix)
God Is Love (Original Mono Single Mix)
Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) [Original Mono Single Mix]
Sad Tomorrows (Original Mono Single Mix)
Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) [Original Mono Single Mix]
Wholy Holy (Original Mono Single Mix)
