What’s going on: Lenny Kravitz to portray Marvin Gaye in upcoming biopic

While many people were skeptical about Lenny Kravitz being cast to play opinionated stylist Cinna in The Hunger Games, he turned in a well-received performance. It looks like those rave reviews have paid off for the 48-year-old, as the London Evening Standard is reporting that he’s signed on to portray music legend Marvin Gaye in an upcoming biopic.

The film is being made by Julien Temple (Bullet, Earth Girls are Easy) and will focus on Gaye’s final years in London.

Marvin Gave is one of the most influential names in pop music history. He was the top-selling artist for the incomparable Motown label during the 1960’s and his signature hits including “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” “Let’s Get It On,” “Sexual Healing” and “What’s Going On” are timeless.

“What’s Going On” the single is ranked as the #4 song of all time on Rolling Stone’s list and the concept album, written from the vantage of a Vietnam veteran returning home to an America ravaged by hatred and injustice, is listed as the #6 album of all time. You would get no argument from me on either ranking.

Kravitz is steeped in the roots of American music so I’m sure he has a great appreciation for the role he’s said to be undertaking.

Gaye’s life ended in one of the most tragic scenes in music history as he was mortally wounded by his own father, who used a pistol that Marvin had given to him as a gift to do the shooting. Gaye passed away just one day before his 45th birthday.

Image: Wikipedia | DB / WENN.com