Marvin Pentz Gaye Jr. (né Gay; April 2, 1939 – April 1, 1984) was an American singer, songwriter, musician and record producer. Commonly referred to as the "Prince of Motown" and "Prince of Soul", he helped to shape the sound of Motown and soul music in the 1960s. A cultural icon, Gaye is often considered one of the greatest singers and songwriters of all time.
Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Gaye began his career being guided by Harvey Fuqua, who put him in his group, Harvey and the Moonglows, before Gaye ventured into a solo career at the beginning of the 1960s.