what *was* going on????

in berry gordy's head. i always rather figured that the head of motown records was a bit of a visionary genius, but i just read this:

"'What's Going On' just sat on the shelves. Berry Gordy didn't like it; he thought Marvin should just stay with the beautiful ballads. Then someone that worked at Motown heard it and told Berry, 'This is a smash, man,' and so ultimately Berry released it, and it went through the roof." --Otis Williams of the Temptations


what the????? how could ANYONE hear that song and not realize that it has to be one of the best songs ever written???? that little tidbit from mr williams just amazed me!!

Oh, you know we've got to find a way
To bring some understanding here today
Oh Picket lines and picket signs
Don't punish me with brutality
Talk to me
So you can see
What's going on......