Marvin Gaye; The Temps & The Tops

Originally broadcast as cable TV specials, these two tributes to Motown legends are a nostalgic blending of music and musing. Hosted by Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye reflects on the troubled life of an artist whose stormy relationships with others, with fame, and with himself, was mirrored in his music. Gaye's music ranged from the intensely personal (such as his Grammy award winning Sexual Healing) to the socially conscious (What's Goin' On?, Mercy, Mercy Me, etc.). In the second program, The Temptations and The Four Tops are profiled. Stevie Wonder hosts the hour, which is jam-packed with hits (1 Can't Help Myself, My Girl, Ain't Too Proud to Beg, Baby I Need Your Loving). Both programs are well done, with the second having the edge in sheer musical magic. Recommended.