In this episode, I share my thoughts about one of the most influential artists who ever lived - Marvin Pentz Gaye Jr who would have been 84 years old on April 2nd. I share the roots of my love of his music, and my appreciation of his life. I talk about some of the aspects of his life that were documented after his untimely passing on April 1st 1984.

From his early hits with Motown like Stubborn Kind of Fellow and I'll Be Doggone, to his successful but short-lived partnership with Tammi Terrell, to his search for identity and independence with the classic concept album What's Goin' On and his self-imposed exile in Europe, Marvin's life was complex, triumphant, and tragic.

I also delve in to an aspect of Marvin's life that isn't well-known, his search for love from his father who ended up being the person who ended his life on that fateful day. Marvin represented many things to many people - Prince of Motown, voice of social justice, sex symbol, legend, and renegade. Marvin was also a man who struggled with his own self-image which led to destructive behaviour.

I choose to see Marvin as a man who shared his art with the world despite his personal pain. He lives on!

In this episode, I share my thoughts on my relationship with my mom during a season of challenge and change.  I remark on the lessons that she has taught and what I have learned about myself.  The impact of my faith on my relationship is the foundation.

Hello everyone,

Recording this episode on February 11th had an added meaning as it is the 33rd anniversary of Nelson Mandela's release from Robben Island prison after 27 years.  He became a global figure through his own example of leadership, forgiveness, reconciliation, and compassion.  From prisoner to South Africa's first Black president, Mr. Mandela remains one of the most influential people the world has ever known.

I share my personal reflections from watching him walk out of the prison to how the world embraced him as a world leader and advocate for peace and social justice.