By David Jordan Jr
“Trouble Man: The Life and Death of Marvin Gaye” is a must have book for all Marvin Gaye fans and anybody that has a great appreciation for his music. Written by Steve Turner, the reader is given a glimpse into not only the life of Marvin Gaye, but the reader is able to see the various instances and moments that created the genius of Marvin Gaye. 
More than factual information that most people know, Turner explores the relationships Marvin had with his family (especially the tumultuous relationship between he and his father) the meager beginnings of his music career which went full force after a short stint in the U.S. military. The depths of exploration from which Turner is able to share Marvin’s life with us helps in having a better appreciation for his music. Pleasure and pain are intertwined and in most cases, pain produces the most captivating art. This is why we love Marvin’s music. His life was no different than any other person (except for bank account size at one time) and the fact that he could artistically connect the joys,trials and tribulations he experienced in his life to his music is where his genius lies.
The many relationships and marriages he had, lessons of love and failed relationships paint the albums which we love. The issues and concerns of the time; racism, poverty and war gave Marvin the platform to exercise his genius. Reading this book, you see the difficult times Gaye encountered while recording some of these albums, the joy that preceded classic songs and how the pursuit of a silver lining that may not have been possible ultimately led to his demise. The creativity, the mindsets at different points in his life is evident from each period of his life vividly seen through the words Turner used for the text. Anybody that wants to learn more about Marvin and be able to have a deeper understanding and appreciation for his music must read this book.
