Marvin Gaye Marvin Gaye, 44 (1939-1984): the singer - who fused soul, R, rock and funk - met a tragic, premature end. he made a comeback in 1982 for record Midnight Love. But after the tour ended in early 1983, Gaye succumbed to depression and lived the life of a recluse in his parents home. Although the musician threatened suicide multiple times, on April 1, 1984, a day before his 45th birthday, Marvin departed this earth by the hand of tragedy. American Music Awards, Sammy Davis Jr