Lifted from his eighth studio album, What A Time to Be In Love, Raheem DeVaughn releases the long-awaited video for his single “Marvin Used to Say.” Honoring Marvin Gaye and the ’70s era, DeVaughn captures the soul and spirit of the late singer, adding to the movement.

“This time-period piece of visual art is a tribute to the musical icon & legend Marvin Gaye,” DeVaughn said in a press release. In celebration of his birthday and artistry, I recorded the song “Marvin Used To Say” back in 2020. Later this year I plan to release an entire album in honor of him as well.” 

Over a soothing, guitar-driven track produced by The Colleagues, DeVaughn sings the plight of the people, the sometimes disheartening feeling that our prayers fall on deaf ears and even the added uncertainty created by COVID-19. But he also sings hope and encouragement through his lyrics, and direct shoutouts to community and thought leaders like activist Tamika D. Mallory, journalist Angela Rye, and rappers Mysonne and David Banner.

“They said the world is changing, It ain’t for the better/ Wonder if God left us hanging, Feels like he ain’t been providing no shelter/ For this stormy weather we been facing, We still ain’t got answers/ Since Marvin asked a long time ago, Oh, what’s going on/ I wanna know”

Lyrics via. Genius

Watch the video below, and download/buy DeVaughn’s What A Time to Be In Love album here.