Marvin Gaye died in 1984, but his music and legacy remain to this day.

"I Heard it through the Grapevine" that his story will be recreated on the stage of the historic Ritz Theatre on Friday, May 2, at 7 p.m. The theatre is at 115 Court Square North, Talladega.

Marvin Gaye fans across Alabama will get there even if they have to "Hitchhike."

Marvin Gaye was a "Stubborn Kind of Fella." Telling his story will be a multi-media show – videos, narrations, and live performances. Audience members will watch in amazement, wondering "What’s Going On?"

Those who don’t like the multi-media presentation may say, "Ain’t That Peculiar?” Those who love the presentation may say, “How Sweet It Is?"

The musicians who perform the Marvin Gaye show say it is their “Pride and Joy.”

If you can’t get to the show, then "I’ll Be Doggone.”  You can always “Get a Witness.”

The show will even have super-smash duets Marvin Gaye performed with Tammi Terrell, such as “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “Your Precious Love,” “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing,” and “You’re All I Need to Get By.”

Marvin Gaye Tammi Terrell 1 Alabama News
Marvin Gaye, Tammi Terrell. MoTown

Tickets can be purchased here.

Here is the official trailer:

Marvin Gaye was a major force in twentieth century music—a singer of rare sensitivity, a versatile pianist, expert drummer, writer of startling originality and producer capable of seamlessly integrating a multitude of melodic strands. 

And Marvin Gaye always seemed to break the rules. The enigmatic and headstrong “Prince of Motown” constantly sought to chart his own course, even when plagued by a divided soul. Marvin’s ultimate legacy is one of the most socially conscious, celebrated and timeless works of 20th century popular art: his 1971 album, What’s Going On.

Beyond his great popularity, his impact on artists of his generations and generations to come is enormous.

The Maverick Lounge Series will take you on a chronological tour through Marvin Gaye’s story and music through visuals, narration, and live performance.

Jim ‘Zig’ Zeigler writes about Alabama’s people, places, events, groups and prominent deaths.  He is a former Alabama Public Service Commissioner and State Auditor. You can reach him for comments at [email protected].

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