Compiled by Olivier Julien, this anthology brings together Marvin Gaye’s earliest recordings for Tamla (1961–1962) and traces the beginnings of an artist still searching for his musical identity. Initially a crooner inspired by Nat King Cole, he displays on The Soulful Moods of Marvin Gaye an elegant voice devoted to timeless jazz standards. Before long, Berry Gordy steered him toward a more direct soul sound, as reflected in his first hit singles, Stubborn Kind of Fellow and Hitch Hike. This collection highlights the emergence of a remarkable vocalist, already endowed with exceptional phrasing and a unique emotional sensitivity, on the threshold of a career that would establish him as one of the greatest figures in soul music. Patrick FRÉMEAUX