Beverly Glenn-Copeland – What’s Going On

Beverly Glenn-Copeland’s reverent take on Marvin Gaye’s ‘What’s Going On’ arrives precisely when the world needs it most. The legendary artist channels his lifelong admiration for Gaye into a cover that honours the original while speaking directly to contemporary struggles. Co-produced with his wife Elizabeth and collaborators including Thom Gill and Joseph Shabason, the track transforms timeless protest into present prophecy.

Glenn-Copeland calls Gaye his teacher, despite never meeting the soul icon, whose untimely death left an indelible mark. This cover arises from that ongoing education—decades of listening, learning, and finding wisdom in Gaye’s prescient observations about war, racism, and social fracture. The 1971 masterpiece feels disturbingly current when filtered through Glenn-Copeland’s contemplative lens.

His decision to revisit these songs connects directly to today’s upheavals: Gaza, attacks on trans rights, Black Lives Matter. Rather than mere tribute, these recordings serve as artistic activism, Glenn-Copeland’s way of building community and speaking truth to power through music. The production maintains Gaye’s soulful foundation while adding Glenn-Copeland’s signature introspective touch.

This double release precedes his first UK performances since 2019, marking another chapter in a remarkable late-career renaissance. Following the rediscovery of ‘Keyboard Fantasies’, Glenn-Copeland has become an elder statesman of experimental soul, proving that prophetic music transcends generations.

Tour Dates:

October 2nd – Edinburgh – The Queen’s Hall
October 7th – Dublin – Vicar Street
October 10th – Cardiff – Llais Festival at Wales Millenium Centre
October 15th – London – Hackney Empire
October 19th – Manchester – Aviva Studios
October 29th – Brussels – Ancienne Belgique at KVS