In 1971, Marvin Gaye was knee-deep into developing his classic album, What’s Going On, while living in Detroit. In fact, the backdrop of the album’s cover was the backyard of his home at the corner of Outer Drive at Monica Street. Fifty years later, the street where his old home used to sit now has a new name, Marvin Gaye Drive.
On Saturday, the Motown Museum and Detroit City Councilman Roy McCalister hosted an event honoring the newly named street. Members of Gaye’s family, former Motown employees and city officials were all in attendance for this occasion.
“Marvin Gaye left an indelible mark on the world, and honoring his meaningful work and his impact with the newly minted Marvin Gaye Drive ensures his legacy lives on in an important way with his continued presence in Detroit, steps away from the home where he lived and conceptualized the ‘What’s Going On’ album 50 years ago,” Motown Museum CEO Robin Terry said.
“It was incredibly special for us to share this ceremonial moment with members of Marvin’s family, members of our Motown family and the Detroit community. It’s a day we’ll never forget.”
On June 19th, Marvin Gaye was honored. Henceforth, we have a Marvin Gaye Drive in the city of Detroit. He live in this house from late 1960’s to early 1970’s. pic.twitter.com/vsH37gnjXa
— professor whitfield (@professorwhitf1) June 19, 2021
