1. Personal Growth: Gaye was at a point in his life where he felt a strong need for personal growth and self-expression. He wanted to explore his inner feelings and experiences, which led him to create deeply introspective and personal music.
2. Relationship Struggles: Gaye's marriage with Anna Gordy was going through a difficult phase. The album reflects the emotional turmoil and complexities he was facing in his relationship, including themes of love, loss, and the search for companionship.
3. Social and Cultural Influences: The 1970s was a time of significant social and cultural change, including the Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War. Gaye was deeply influenced by these events, and his album expresses the collective emotions of the era, including issues of race, inequality, and the search for hope.
4. Spiritual Journey: Gaye's spirituality played an essential role in shaping the album. He found solace in religion, and the album's lyrics and music reflect his search for spiritual enlightenment and finding peace within himself.
5. Musical Innovation: Gaye wanted to push boundaries and create music that was innovative and groundbreaking. He experimented with different musical styles, incorporating elements of jazz, funk, and R&B to create a unique and soulful sound.
Overall, "Going On" was inspired by Gaye's personal experiences, social and cultural influences, and his desire to express his emotions and experiences in a powerful and artistic way. The album is a profound reflection of his journey as a musician and a human being, and its impact on soul music and popular culture is still felt to this day.