#Motown Legends

[gone2soon-rip]

BARRETT STRONG (1941-Died January 29th 2023,at 81). American singer and songwriter. Strong was the first artist to record a hit for Motown,Money (That’s What I Want),which reached No.2 in the 1960 US R&B Billboard., although he is best known for his work as a songwriter, particularly in association with producer Norman Whitfield.Among his most famous work at Motown, Strong wrote the lyrics for many of the songs recorded by the Temptations.Writing alongside Norman Whitfield,he co wrote some of Motown’s greatest hits,including ‘i Heard It Through the Grapevine’ for both Marvin Gaye,and for Gladys Knight & the Pips, ‘War’,for Edwin Starr,Everywhere I Lay My Hat (That’s My Home) for Paul Young,and many hits for The Temptations,including ‘Papa Was a Rolling Stone’.  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrett_Strong

[princessthriller]

Diana Ross presents the Jackson 5

The Jackson Five realeased several albums during their career, but their most iconic albums is probably "Diana Ross Presents The Jackson 5" This album, released in 1969, was their first studio album under the Motown Records label. It included songs like "I Want You Back" and "Who's Lovin' You" which became major hits and helped launch their career. This album was a great success for the group and established the foundation for their future success.

"I did'nt know he was iconic"

Yes, "Diana Ross Presents The Jackson 5" is indeed a very iconic album in the history of pop music and the career of the Jackson 5. It marked their debut on the music scene and introduced the world to their contagious energy. The song "I Want You Back" in particular became an instant classic and remains one of the band's most recognizable songs. This album laid the foundation for their continued success and status as musical legends.

[musicianfiend]

Music Genre: R&B

How Rhythm and Blues Became the Heartbeat of Contemporary Sound In the ever-evolving landscape of music, where genres rise and fall like the tides, one thing remains constant: the enduring power of rhythm and blues, better known as R&B. This genre, with its roots deeply entrenched in the African American experience, has consistently reinvented itself to remain at the forefront of contemporary…

[legendsofmotown]

The Cultural Significance: Motown Beyond Music

Intro-

The Motown sound, originating from Detroit, has resonated across North American musical landscapes. As we journey from the heart of Hitsville, U.S.A., Canada's embrace of this legendary genre emerges vividly.

Canada's Connection to Detroit's Motown Era

In the spirited 1960s in Detroit, the Motown Records legend began. Berry Gordy Jr. unveiled a musical sanctuary where iconic melodies took life. Across the border, Canada danced passionately to these Motown rhythms. Experience the legacy live at Legends of Motown’s upcoming events.

The Motown Revolution

Motown wasn't merely a musical movement; it was a powerful cultural tide that reshaped society's fabric. Originating from Detroit, this tidal wave quickly reached international shores, including Canada. While it gifted the world with legends like Stevie Wonder and Diana Ross, its significance lay deeper. For instance, did you know that Motown's timeless hit "What's Going On" by Marvin Gaye not only topped the charts but also became an anthem for social justice and change? It was more than a song; it was a call to action, an embodiment of Motown's commitment to addressing societal issues through music. This is just one example of how Motown's influence extended beyond catchy tunes and dance moves, leaving an indelible mark on history.

In the heart of its melodies, Motown carried potent messages, breaking racial barriers and promoting harmony. In North America, with its own mosaic of cultures and races, Motown resonated with this call for unity. One example of how Motown was able to make such a profound impact is through songs like "Dancing in the Street." This Motown classic, originally recorded by Martha and the Vandellas, transcended the dance floor. It became an anthem for civil rights and social change, with its lyrics inspiring people to come together and "put all our differences aside." As Motown songs echoed throughout North American streets and homes, they weren't just tunes; they were anthems of hope and shared humanity. For North Americans, Motown became more than music; it was a beacon in times of change, signaling unity in diversity.

Cherished Icons of Motown

Motown emerged during America's tumultuous civil rights era. Rooted in Detroit's 1960s landscape, it became a beacon of racial integration and harmony. While churning out hit records, Motown's real triumph lay in its ability to transcend racial barriers, offering a platform for Black talent in a segregated industry. In a time of societal upheaval, its melodies offered hope and unity, resonating deeply within communities. As Canada felt these reverberations, it underscored Motown's pivotal role in challenging racial divides and shaping cultural discourse.

Motown's Ripple Effect in Canada

Motown's influence wasn’t restricted to the USA. Canadian cities witnessed Motown stars performing live, and artists such as Joni Mitchell infused Motown elements, acknowledging its profound influence.

Behind Hitsville U.S.A.’s Magic

Hitsville U.S.A., Motown’s birthplace, was where creativity soared. Prolific songwriters sculpted the distinct Motown signature, capturing hearts worldwide, including Canada's.

Motown's Influence Beyond Music

Motown's fashion and dance trends became emblematic of an era. This influence seamlessly seeped into Canadian pop culture, where Motown style and dance became iconic. Dive deeper into its influence with our blog on Motown’s broader impact.

Preserving Motown's Legacy

Canada's love for Motown is undeniable. While global accolades pour in, North Americans continue to relish Motown moments. Legends of Motown strive to keep this vibrant connection alive. Learn more about our Motown-centric offerings.

Conclusion

To Canadians, Motown is a melodic testament, a narrative of inspiration that transcends borders. This sound, deeply rooted in Detroit, found resonance in Canada, and thanks to platforms like Legends of Motown, it continues to thrive.

[speakspeak]

Timeless Cool: Marvin Gaye

[ifelllikeastar]

Billy Preston

Billy was entirely self-taught and never had a music lesson. By the age of ten, he was playing organ onstage backing several gospel singers such as Mahalia Jackson. Sometimes referred to as the 'fifth' Beatle, Billy accompanied the band on electric piano for its rooftop concert, the Beatles final public appearance. He also played keyboards (including piano, organ, clavinet and various synthesizers) for the Rolling Stones. 

William Everett Preston died June 6, 2006 at the age of 59.

[dbguidebook]

Icons// Ross, Diana. #Societythings

[heavenboy09]

Happy Birthday 🎂 🥳 🎉 🎈 🎁 🎊 To You

The 1 Of The Most Iconic & Legendary Black American 👩🏿🤎🖤 Female Singer / Actress Of All Times 🎶

Diana Ross was born in Detroit, Michigan, on March 26, 1944. She was the second of six children born to Ernestine (née Moten; January 27, 1916 – October 9, 1984) and Fred Ross Sr. (July 4, 1920 – November 21, 2007). Her mother named her Diane, but the birth certificate was mistakenly filled out with the name Diana. Her family and Detroit friends called her Diane all her life. Ross grew up with two sisters (Barbara and Rita) and three brothers: Arthur; Fred Jr.; and Wilbert, also known as Chico. Ross was raised Baptist.

She is an American singer and actress. She was the lead singer of the vocal group The Supremes, who became Motown's most successful act during the 1960s and one of the world's best-selling girl groups of all time. They remain the best-charting female group in history, with a total of twelve number-one hit singles on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, including "Where Did Our Love Go", "Baby Love", "Come See About Me", "Stop! In the Name of Love", and "Love Child".

Following her departure from the Supremes in 1970, Ross embarked on a successful solo music career with the release of her eponymous debut solo album and its singles, "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" – her first solo U.S. number-one hit – and "Reach Out and Touch (Somebody's Hand)". Her second solo album, Everything Is Everything (1970), spawned her first UK number-one single "I'm Still Waiting". Ross continued her successful solo career by mounting elaborate record-setting worldwide concert tours, starring in highly watched primetime TV specials, and releasing hit albums, such as Touch Me in the Morning (1973), Mahogany (1975), Diana Ross (1976), and Diana (1980), as well as their number-one hit singles – "Touch Me in the Morning", "Theme from Mahogany (Do You Know Where You're Going To)", "Love Hangover", and "Upside Down", respectively. "Endless Love", a 1981 duet with Lionel Richie, made her the female solo act with the most number-one songs in the United States at the time. Her commercial success continued throughout the '80s and '90s with global hits, including "I'm Coming Out", "Why Do Fools Fall in Love", "All of You", "Chain Reaction", "If We Hold on Together" and "When You Tell Me That You Love Me".

 In 1988, Ross was inducted to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Supremes, and is one of the rare performers to have two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She was the recipient of a Special Tony Award in 1977, the Kennedy Center Honors in 2007, the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012 and 2023 (becoming the first woman to win the award twice, the latter as a member of The Supremes), and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016.

PLEASE WISH THIS LEGENDARY ICON IN MUSIC 🎶 & MOVIES 🎥 OF THE 1960S, 70'S 80'S & 90'S A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY 🎂 🥳 🎉 🎈 🎁 🎊

YOU ALL KNOW HER & IF YOU DONT.  LOOK HER UP OR TALK TO YOUR PARENTS

HER MUSIC 🎶 HAS STANDING THE TEST OF TIME & WILL CONTINUE ON FOR GENERATIONS TO COME

& HER LEGACY IS NOT EASING ON UP ANYTIME SOON

THE 1

& ONLY

MS. DIANA ROSS 👩🏿🖤🤎 OF THE SUPREMES

HAPPY 80TH BIRTHDAY 🎂 🥳 🎉 🎈 🎁 🎊 TO YOU MS. ROSS 👩🏿🖤🤎& HERE'S TO MANY MORE YEARS TO COME

 

#DianaRoss #DianaRossandTheSupremes #Motown #Legend

[she-wolf-writer-58]

Stevie Wonder Top 10 Songs - Timeless And Brilliance

[helloparkerrose]

[mr-divabetic]

Stephanie Mills' voice is so distinctive that it is hard to mistake it for anyone else's. She has been nicknamed "the little lady with a big voice," but this hardly does justice to her status as a living legend. Although her impressive string of hits in the '80s and early '90s might qualify her as an R&B icon, it was her electrifying performance as Dorothy in the Broadway show "The Wiz" that made her a household name.

Did you know an up-and-coming songwriter named Luther Vandross penned "A Brand New Day," also known as "Everybody Rejoice"? 

If you do a few Google searches,  you'll find "The Wiz" wasn't her first foray into showbiz. At the ripe old age of nine, she achieved considerable success in a background role for the 1968 musical "Maggie Flynn. After that, she won amateur night not once, not twice, but six sensational times at Showtime at the Apollo. 

Her Broadway success in "The Wiz" led Stephanie Mills to be signed with 20th Century, scoring her first top 10 R&B hit in 1979 with "What Cha Gonna Do With My Lovin'." From there, she segued to Casablanca and then MCA, where she recorded five No. 1 R&B singles, including "I Feel Good All Over" and "Home."

She freely admits, "I love all my albums [but] I think my prime album would be the Home album because I put a lot of thought into re-recording 'Home 'and the songs on that album. But each of my albums [has] a story of a time in my life [and] what I may have been going through at that time."

Although we're glad to hear she loves her albums and still tours, we can imagine the time, dedication, drive, and diligence it takes to be at the top of your game for over six decades. "I sing every day, but I get a lot of rest. I sleep a lot, but I love touring," she said in an interview with one of our favorite websites, Rated R&B. "It's not taxing. I'm older, so when I come home, I am tired, but it's a good tired because I love leaving everything I have on stage with my audience."

Recently, Stephanie Mills chose to fund her own recording. She explained to the White Mountain Independent," "I'm doing this on sheer will, faith, and my experience in the business. I didn't set out to do this on my own; it just happened. But I believe in this."

When asked what keeps her inner rhinestones glowing, Stephanie Mills said, "Seeing the audience's faces and seeing them enjoy my singing. I take pride in trying to sound as close to my records as I can. In fact, when I sing, I sing to my original recording. People pay their hard-earned money to come see you. That's big. That's a lot."

On social media, Stephanie Mill has no problem speaking her mind. She's shared her feelings regarding the R&B whitewashing and defended her friend, the late Michael Jackson. 

Her recording of Angela Winbush's "I Have Learned To Respect The Power Of Love" is a standout. Her voice is rich, clear, and powerful. She pours emotion into every line of lyrical sentiment that speaks to your heart. It's one of my most beloved Quiet Storm ballads. You don't hear songs like this anymore. . 

"I've had a fabulous life and fabulous career," the legendary singer confidently told Rated R&B. Asked what she credits for her longevity in the music industry, she said, "Never following a trend. I've always done my own path and stayed on my own path. I didn't listen to a lot of noise of what people say: "Oh, you should do this, you should do that." I took the best from whatever they said that I felt was best for me and would work for me, and I would do that. I always took my time and just slowly did the slow walk. I didn't do a fast run. I did a slow walk."

After working in showbiz for half a century, Stephanie Mills must feel content knowing that people still enjoy watching her perform. It's difficult to imagine the numerous setbacks, disappointments, and frustrations she has faced throughout her career. From the singles that failed to make it to the top of the charts to auditions for roles that she didn't get, Stephanie has likely endured more challenges than most of us could handle. Therefore, we celebrate her longevity steeped in excellence with great admiration.

[phantasmagloria]

Storm Stereo 108: FM Trölli, Feb. 22

In light of Black History Month, on this episode we listen to legends of blues, soul, R&B, gospel and Motown.

Listen back to the Storm Stereo show for Trölli FM, that aired on February 29, 2024. You can tune in every Thursday, 5-6 pm GMT at 103.7 FM on the radio in North Iceland and at trölli.is wherever you are in the world. In light of Black History Month, on this episode we listen to legends of blues, soul, R&B, gospel and Motown. Included are songs made famous by white artists but which were…

[eddieharriel]

[2minfastfacts]

Watch "Rare interview of Michael Jackson - An inquest into a beautiful mind" on YouTube

[speakspeak]

Timeless Cool: Marvin Gaye

[ifelllikeastar]

Marvin Gaye developed a love of singing at an early age. He started singing in church when he was four years old and was encouraged to pursue a professional music career after a performance at a school play at 11.

His home life consisted of "brutal whippings" by his father, who struck him for any shortcoming. He endured a hard cruel childhood but rose to truly become the Prince of Soul... the Prince of Motown.

Marvin Gaye died April 1, 1984 at the age of 44. His father killed him by gunshot.