22 - MOTOWN

Motown mastermind Berry Gordy Jr. saw his dreams become reality when his company featuring black performers, musicians and writers became the biggest black owned corporation in North America.

Using Tin Pan Alley, The Brill Building and the MGM star grooming system as his inspirations, Gordy raised the concept of assembly line songwriting, arranging, recording and packaging to a high art form. He controlled his empire with an iron fist, creating images, choosing songs, matching performers with material, directing promotion and overseeing the grooming of his artists for stardom.

BERRY GORDY JR.

• (Nov. 28, 1929 – )
• Producer/songwriter/arranger/saxophonist/talent scout/music mogul born in Detroit, Michigan.
• A one time Ford assembly line worker and amateur boxer.
• Tenor saxman in Maurice King's band.
• Opened a small record shop in Detroit, originally specializing in jazz, later R&B.
• When the store went bankrupt, he began writing R&B songs and producing as an independent.
• His first release was "Ooh Shucks" by Five Stars, licensed to George Goldner's New York based Mark X label.
• 1957 - Jackie Wilson recorded his "Reet Petite" on the Brunswick label, taking it to #62 on the national charts. Because of poor marketing, the profit amounted to a mere $1,000.
• Nov., 1958 - Gordy hit paydirt when Jackie Wilson's recording of his composition, "Lonely Teardrops" went to #7 nationally.
• By 1959, he had expanded his horizons as an independent songwriter/producer. Never satisfied with the way his masters were promoted and determined to produce and market his own music, he began releasing his product on the United Artists and Anna labels.
• 1960 - Formed his own company, Tammie, later renaming it Tamla Records. Gordy had also discovered his first major singer/ songwriter in 20 year old William "Smokey" Robinson who had already formed his own backup group called The Miracles. Their first hit, "Way Over There" sold a respectable 60,000 copies.
• Jan., 1960 - Barrett Strong's recording of "Money" went to #2 R&B, (Feb., 1960)#23. But it was both The Miracles' and Tamla's first real hit when "Shop Around" shot to #2 on the national charts in Dec., 1960.
• Gordy added both the Motown and Gordy labels as subsidiaries to his original Tamla Records.
• As the 1960's progressed, several other satellite labels were created including Soul, V.I.P. and Rare Earth.
• By the early 1960's, Gordy had added Mary Wells, The Contours, The Marvelettes and Marvin Gaye to his talent roster.
• 1963 - Found his main writing team of Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier and Eddie Holland. The definitive Motown sound was born with Holland, Dozier & Holland's memorable melodies featuring catchy repetitive hook lines and choruses. This pop songwriting formula would become the basis for the Motown catch phrase - "The Sound Of Young America."
• Berry Gordy Jr. had originally based his complete operations out of a white two storey building situated at 2648 West Grand Boulevard in Detroit. The site is now a museum.

THE MOTOWN SOUND

Exactly what were the ingredients of the so-called Motown sound? The distinctive combination of a non-stop percussive assault featuring pounding drums, tambourines and hissing cymbals, persistent baritone sax leads played over melodic vibes, all layered over heavy thumping bass patterns, gave the recordings a unified style. The production was streamlined and the overall sound was like some gigantic machine bent on ravaging the listener's eardrums. Add to this the glorious songs of the Motown songwriting staff performed by a talented artist roster and you have the recipe for an incredibly successful product.

Vocally, the Motown sound consisted of the fusion of emotional gospel tinged lead vocals and repetitive choral hook lines and choruses - once again based on the call and response technique.

Motown records were so much more acceptable to the white masses than any other modern black music style. Its roots were gospel and blues yet its image was upscale white presented with an entirely wholesome look and attitude. Lyrics were never as racy as hardcore R&B or soul and rarely were they political. Many other black owned outfits tended to view Motown as creampuff R&B served up to "whitey," although much of that could be chalked up to jealousy and disguised admiration. Yes, Motown was pop music in its direction but it was wholly black and it certainly possessed a powerful sound and an impressive track record. Motown caused a revolution in mainstream music, garnering an across the board audience. It was no wonder that it was dubbed "Hitsville U.S.A."

THE MOTOWN HOUSE BAND

The relatively unheralded session band for Motown was actually Earl Van Dyke's Soul Brothers. Unlike the Stax house band, they were generally kept in the background and told exactly what to play with little or no experimentation. The most scandalous fact was that the band played in local lounges for peanuts and worked all day in the studio for scale.

BAND LINEUP

• Earl Van Dyke - Keyboards (considered to be "The architect of The Motown Sound")
• Benny Benjamin - Drums
• James Jamerson - Bass (1938 - Aug., 1983)
• Joe Messina - Guitar
• James Giddons - Percussion
• Robert White - Guitar

Other session musicians included Thomas "Beans" Bowles (sax & flute), Joe Hunter and Johnny Griffith (piano), Eddie Willis and David Hamilton (guitar), Uriel Jones and Richard "Pistol" Allen (drums), Eddie "Bongo" Brown, Jack Ashford and Jack Brokensha (percussion).

MOTOWN BACKGROUND VOCAL GROUP

THE ANDANTES - Jackie Hicks, Marlene Barrow and Louvain Demps.

I.T.M.I.

In the Gordy empire, everyone did exactly as they were told. He certainly nurtured and promoted his acts yet his autocracy also included keeping tabs on everything and everybody - sometimes even their private lives. In order to prepare his acts for stardom, he formed his International Talent Management Inc. (I.T.M.I.), a sort of finishing school for entertainers. Motown acts were taught manners, poise, makeup, dance choreography and basic good grooming. Gordy demanded respectability. It was his contention that good performers should offend no one. If black acts were to compete in the white world, they must be within reach of perfection. He called it quality control - others labelled it dictatorship.

THE MOTOWN SUCCESS STORY

By the time his roster of quality performers had grown to include The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, The Four Tops and Martha And The Vandellas, Berry Gordy Jr. had finally developed a unified recognizable style. However, the epitome of the Motown sound and the ultimate in pop packaging came about with the inspired pairing of writers Holland, Dozier & Holland and a female vocal trio called The Supremes.

By 1966, 75% of all Motown product was charted - an awesome achievement by any standards. As soon as his acts attained chart success, Gordy hustled them into major showcase venues such as The Copa, The Latin Casino and several classy Las Vegas nightclubs. He was obsessed with elevating his top artists to superstar status, especially in the case of Diana Ross. When she emerged as his most successful protégé, he began lavishing most of his attention on her to the dismay of not only the other two Supremes but to his other artists. Although Ross had defiantly eclipsed all of her other Motown contemporaries, a great majority of Gordy's other acts suffered, causing dissention and confusion. As a result, several of his prominent acts left the company.

In 1967, unhappy with royalty accounting and a resulting lawsuit, Holland, Dozier & Holland left the fold. Several other writing units such as Nick Ashford and wife Valerie Simpson (see Funk And The New R&B) were recruited as replacements. By 1968, internal dissention erupted on a grand scale when Gordy proceeded to put all of his energies into furthering the solo career of Diana Ross and grooming her for films. Also, many artists had become disenchanted with his excessive control policies. That factor alone led to both Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye's re-negotiation of their contracts in 1971, allowing them complete artistic control. That particular event seemed to encapsulate the basic underlying problem with Motown policies and heralded its subsequent deterioration in power. When the company moved its headquarters from Detroit to Los Angeles in 1971, a great many of its original stars exited.

By the mid 1970's, Motown was being surpassed by the Gamble & Huff sound of Philadelphia, which had taken the Motown idea of assembly line pop music and streamlined it with a sleek seventies disco approach.

Although Motown continued to churn out a respectable number of charted hits annually, the company had lost the overwhelming power of its 1961-69 heyday. Motown's contributions to the music industry were immeasurable. It had basically taken black performers out of the so-called "chitlin circuit." Thanks to Motown, black music was no longer a minority taste. On Tuesday, June 29, 1988, Gordy sold Motown Records to MCA for $61 million.

SMOKEY ROBINSON & THE MIRACLES

• William "Smokey" Robinson (Feb. 19, 1940 – )
• Singer/songwriter born in Detroit, Michigan.
• Nicknamed "Smokey Joe" by an uncle.
• 1955 - The Miracles vocal group was formed at Northern High School in Detroit. They were originally called The Matadors.
• Consisting of Smokey Robinson (lead), Warren "Pete" Moore (Nov. 19, 1939 – ) (bass), Robert Rogers (Feb. 19, 1940 – ) (tenor), Ronald White (April 5, 1939 - Aug. 26, 1995) (baritone) and Emerson Rogers (tenor).
• 1956 - Emerson Rogers left to join the army and was replaced by Robert Rogers' cousin Claudette Rogers (1942 – ) (the future Mrs. Smokey Robinson).
• Feb. 19, 1958 - Their debut recording, released on Robinson's 18th birthday, "Got A Job" was an answer to The Silhouettes' "Get A Job."
• Nov. 7, 1959 - Robinson married Claudette.
• April, 1960 - Their first upscale hit, "Way Over There" sold 60,000 copies.
• 1960 - Gordy signed The Miracles to his Tamla label and Robinson became his main songwriter.
• Dec., 1960 - The Miracles' recording of "Shop Around" went to #2, #1-8 wks. R&B. It became Motown's first million seller.
• Robinson's fragile falsetto vocals became one of the most recognizable sounds of the 1960's.
• 1964 - Claudette Robinson retired to care for her family.
• 1967 - The group changed its name to Smokey Robinson & The Miracles.
• 1972 - Robinson went solo, replaced in The Miracles by Billy Griffin from Baltimore, Maryland.
• Robinson served as vice president of Motown Records until 1988.
• Hits include "You've Really Got A Hold On Me"(Dec., 1962)#1 R&B, #8, "Mickey's Monkey"(Aug., 1963)#3 R&B, #8, "Ooo Baby Baby" (March, 1965)#16, (April, 1965)#4 R&B, "The Tracks Of My Tears" (July, 1965)#2 R&B, #16, "Going To A Go-Go"(Dec., 1965)#11, (Jan., 1966)#2 R&B, "I Second That Emotion"(Nov., 1967)#1 R&B, #4, "Baby Baby Don't Cry"(Jan., 1969)3# R&B, #8, "The Tears Of A Clown"(Oct., 1970)#1-3 wks. R&B, #1-2 wks. and "Love Machine (Part 1)"(Oct., 1975)#5 R&B, #1.
• Robinson solo hits include "Baby That's Backatcha"(March, 1975) #1 R&B, (April, 1975)#26, "Cruisin'"(Sept., 1979)#4 R&B, (Oct., 1979)#4, "Being With You"(Feb., 1981)#1-5 wks. R&B, #2, "Just To See Her"(Feb., 1987)#2 R&B, (March, 1987)#8 and "One Heartbeat" (June, 1987)#3 R&B, (July, 1987)#10.

MARY WELLS

• (May 13, 1943 - July 26, 1992)
• Singer/songwriter born in Detroit, Michigan.
• Dec., 1960 - Her self-penned song, "Bye Bye Baby" went to #8 R&B, (Jan., 1961)#45.
• Nicknamed "The First Lady Of Motown."
• Famous for her fragile soulful voice.
• April, 1964 - Her recording of "My Guy" went to #1-2 wks. R&B, #1-2 wks.
• Wells was the first Motown artist to have a top ten hit and a #1 hit record.
• Oct., 1964 - Toured the U.K. with The Beatles.
• Oct., 1964 - Left Motown.
• Aug., 1990 - Diagnosed with throat cancer.
• July 26, 1992 - Died of throat cancer.
• Hits include "The One Who Really Loves You"(March, 1962)#8, (April, 1962)#2 R&B, "You Beat Me To The Punch"(Aug., 1962)#9, (Sept., 1962)#1 R&B, "Two Lovers"(Dec., 1962)#1-4 wks. R&B, #7, "Once Upon A Time"(May, 1964)#19 R&B, #19 (with Marvin Gaye) and "Dear Lover"(Feb., 1966)#6 R&B, #51.

THE MARVELETTES

• 1960 - Vocal quintet formed at Inkster High School in Inkster, Michigan by Gladys Horton (1944 –)
• Originally called The Casinyets.
• Consisting of Horton, Georgeanna Marie Tillman (1944 - Jan. 6, 1980) (aka: Georgeanna Marie Tillman Gordon), Wanda Young (1944 – ), Katherine Anderson (1944 – ) and Juanita Cowart (1944 – ).
• Both Young and Horton sang lead.
• 1961 - Discovered by Berry Gordy Jr. at their school talent show.
• Their recordings featured harder R&B vocals than most other girl groups of the period.
• The group rejected "Baby Love" which later became a monster hit for The Supremes.
• 1969 - Horton was replaced by Anne Bogan.
• Hits include the million selling "Please Mr. Postman"(Sept., 1961)#1-7 wks. R&B, #1, "Playboy"(May, 1962)#4 R&B, #7, "Beechwood 4-5789"(Aug., 1962)#7 R&B, #17, "Don't Mess With Bill" (Jan., 1966)#3 R&B, #7 and "The Hunter Gets Captured By The Game" (Jan., 1967)#13, (Feb., 1967)#2 R&B.

THE VELVELETTES

• Vocal quintet formed at Western Michigan State University.
• Consisting of Millie Gill, Carol "Cal" Gill, Bertha Barbee, Norma Barbee and Betty Kelly (1944 – ).
• Oct., 1964 - Their recording of "Needle In a Haystack" went to #45 R&B, #45.

MARTHA & THE VANDELLAS

• Martha Reeves (July 18, 1941 – )
• Singer born in Alabama.
• One of 12 children, Reeves sang in her grandfather's Metropolitan A.M.E. Church.
• Began as a Tamla/Motown secretary, discovered by A&R chief William "Mickey" Stevenson.
• Formed Martha & The Vandellas consisting of Reeves (lead), Annette Beard (Annette Sterling (1942 – ) and Rosalind Ashford (Sept. 2, 1943 – ).
• The group's name came from Van Dyke Street in Detroit and Della from the singer Della Reese.
• 1962 - Their first assignment was singing backup for Marvin Gaye on his recording of "Stubborn Kind Of Fellow." They sang on several of his subsequent releases.
• April, 1963 - Their recording of "Come And Get These Memories" went to #6 R&B, #29.
• Aug., 1964 - Their classic recording of the Marvin Gaye composition, "Dancing In The Street" went to #2 R&B, #2. It had been offered originally to Kim Weston who turned it down.
• 1964 - Beard was replaced by Betty Kelly (1944 – ) of The Velvelettes.
• 1967 - Changed their name to Martha Reeves & The Vandellas.
• 1969-1971 - Disbanded.
• 1971 - Reformed briefly with new lineup.
• 1972 - Reeves went solo.
• 1972 - Declared bankruptcy.
• April, 1974 - Reeves is signed to MCA.
• Jan. 12, 1995 - Martha And The Vandellas are inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
• Hits include "Heatwave"(Aug., 1963)#1-4 wks. R&B, #4, "Quicksand" (Nov., 1963)#8 R&B, #8, "Nowhere To Run"(Feb., 1965)#5 R&B, #8, "I'm Ready For Love"(Oct., 1966)#9, (Nov., 1966)#2 R&B, "Jimmy Mack"(Feb., 1967)#10, (March, 1967)#1 R&B and "Honey Chile"(Nov., 1967)#5 R&B, #11.
• Recommended Reeves solo track - "I've Really Got To Use My Imagination"(1974).

MARVIN GAYE

• Marvin Pentz Gay Jr. (April 2, 1939 - April 1, 1984)
• Singer/songwriter/pianist/guitarist/drummer born in Washington, D.C.
• 1957 - Formed a doo-wop group called The Marquees in Washington, D.C.
• 1959 - Joined Harvey Fuqua's group The Moonglows.
• Later, he signed with Motown, adding the final "e" to his name.
• May, 1961 - Married Berry Gordy Jr.'s sister Anna, 17 years his senior.
• Originally, he had wanted to become a balladeer like his idol Frank Sinatra, but success came when his soulful recording of "Stubborn Kind Of Fellow" went to #8 R&B and #46 nationally in Oct., 1962.
• Gaye's sensual style caused him to be labelled "The Silky Soul Singer."
• 1964 - Wrote "Dancing In The Street" for Martha & The Vandellas.
• Many hits followed as well as several duets including "It Takes Two"(Jan., 1967)#4 R&B, #14 (with Kim Weston), "Ain't No Mountain High Enough"(May, 1967)#19, (June, 1967)#3 R&B (with Tammi Terrell) and "Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing"(April, 1968)#1 R&B, #8 (with Tammi Terrell).
• 1971 - Re-negotiated his Motown contract allowing him complete artistic control.
• 1973 - After his first marriage disintegrated, he moved to Los Angeles, California where he married Janis Hunter, with whom he had 2 children.
• April, 1977 - Divorced Anna Gordy.
• When his second marriage failed, manic depression set in and he developed a cocaine habit.
• 1979 - After the I.R.S. seized his home and private recording studio, Gaye ended up living in a second hand van.
• April 1, 1984 - During a spat with his father at his parents' home, his father shot him dead.
• Nov. 2, 1984 - Marvin Gay Sr., a retired minister was sentenced to a 5 year probated term.
• Jan. 21, 1987 - Inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
• Hits include "Pride And Joy"(May, 1963)#10, (June, 1963)#2 R&B, "How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)"(Nov., 1964)#6, (Jan., 1965)#4 R&B, "I'll Be Doggone"(March, 1965)#1 R&B, #8, "Ain't That Peculiar"(Oct., 1965)#1 R&B, #8, "I Heard It Through The Grapevine"(Nov., 1968)#1-7 wks. R&B, #1-7 wks., "Too Busy Thinking About My Baby"(April, 1969)#4, (May, 1969)#1-6 wks. R&B, "What's Going On"(Feb., 1971)!1-5 wks. R&B, #2, "Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)"(July, 1971)#1-2 wks. R&B, #4, "Let's Get It On" (July, 1973)#1-6 wks. R&B, #1-2 wks., "Got To Give It Up (Pt. 1)" (April, 1977)#1-5 wks. R&B, #1 and "Sexual Healing"(Oct., 1982) #1-10 wks. R&B, #3.

STEVIE WONDER

• Steveland Hardaway Judkins Morris (May 13, 1950 – )
• Singer/songwriter/keyboardist/harmonica player/drummer/producer born in Saginaw, Michigan.
• Blinded as a baby after given too much oxygen in an incubator.
• Raised in Detroit, Michigan.
• 1960 - Age 10, signed to Motown as a backup musician.
• 1962 - Renamed Little Stevie Wonder by Berry Gordy Jr., he was often called "Motown's Child Genius."
• Aug., 1962 - Released his debut single, "I Call It Pretty Music (But The Old People Call It The Blues)" featuring Marvin Gaye on drums.
• June, 1963 - His recording of "Fingertips - Part 2" went to #1-6 wks. R&B, #1-3 wks.
• Film appearances include "Muscle Beach Party"(1964) and "Bikini Beach"(1964).
• Sept. 14, 1970-1972 - Married to singer Syreeta Wright.
• Aug. 16, 1973 - Involved in a near fatal car accident.
• March, 1974 - Wins 4 Grammy Awards including Album Of The Year for "Innervisions."
• 1975 - Re-negotiated a 3 year contract with Motown for $13 million.
• During the 1970's, he dabbled in experimental funk.
• Jan. 18, 1989 - Inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
• Feb. 28, 1996 - Wonder was awarded the Male R&B Vocalist Performance Of The Year Grammy for "For Your Love" and also picked up The Lifetime Achievement Grammy.
• Albums include "Talking Book"(1972), "Innervisions"(1973), "Songs In The Key Of Life"(1976), "Characters"(1987) and "Conversation Peace"(1995).
• Hits include "Uptight (Everything's Alright)"(Dec., 1965)#3, (Jan., 1966)#1-5 wks. R&B, "I Was Made To Love Her"(June, 1967) #1-4 wks. R&B, #2, "For Once In My Life"(Nov., 1968)#2 R&B, #2, "My Cherie Amour"(May, 1969)#4, (June, 1969)#4 R&B, "Signed, Sealed, Delivered I'm Yours"(June, 1970)#3, (July, 1970)#1-6 wks. R&B, "Superstition"(Nov., 1972)#1-3 wks. R&B, #1, "You Are The Sunshine Of My Life"(March, 1973)#3 R&B, #1, "You Haven't Done Nothin'"(Aug., 1974)#1-2 wks. R&B, #1, "I Wish"(Dec., 1976) #1-5 wks. R&B, #1, "Sir Duke"(April, 1977)#1 R&B, #1, "Ebony And Ivory"(April, 1982)#8 R&B, #1-7 wks. (with Paul McCartney), "I Just Called To Say I Love You"(Aug., 1984)#1-3 wks. R&B, #1-3 wks., "Part Time Lover"(Sept., 1985)#1-6 wks. R&B, #1 and "That's What Friends Are For"(Nov., 1985)#1-3 wks. R&B, #1-4 wks. (with Dionne Warwick, Elton John and Gladys Knight).

THE TEMPTATIONS

• 1960 - Vocal quintet formed to perform at a local rock and roll show in Detroit, Michigan.
• Consisting of Melvin Franklin (David English) (Oct. 12, 1942 - Feb. 23, 1995) (bass), Paul Williams (July 2, 1939 - Aug. 17, 1973), David Ruffin (Jan. 18, 1941 - June 1, 1991), Otis Williams (Otis Miles) (Oct. 30, 1941 – ) and Eddie Kendricks (Dec. 17, 1939 - Oct. 5, 1992) (high tenor).
• Originally, the group included Elbridge Bryant who was replaced by Ruffin in 1964.
• Formed from The Distants (Otis Williams and Melvin Franklin) and The Primes (Paul Williams and Eddie Kendricks). The name The Primes was kept for a time.
• Considered to be the finest soul vocal quintet of the 1960's.
• All members were lead singers, each taking their turn while the group performed its creative harmonies and intricate choreography.
• 1961 - They first recorded for the Miracle label before being signed to Gordy.
• The group worked primarily with writers Smokey Robinson and Norman Whitfield, whose material and arrangements were more rhythmic than those of Holland, Dozier & Holland.
• Jan., 1965 - Their recording of "My Girl" went to #1-3 wks. R&B, #1.
• 1968 - Ruffin went solo, replaced by Dennis Edwards (Feb. 3, 1943 – ) of The Contours.
• 1971 - Kendricks went solo.
• 1982 - Released the "Reunion" album.
• 1989 - Inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
• June 1, 1991 - David Ruffin was found dead following a reaction to cocaine. His Detroit funeral was paid for by Michael Jackson, Diana Ross and Aretha Franklin.
• Oct. 5, 1992 - Kendricks died of lung cancer.
• Feb. 23, 1995 - Franklin died of cardiac arrest.
• June, 2000 - The group expanded their chart career to a fifth decade with the release of the "Ear-Resistible" album.
• Hits include "Get Ready"(Feb., 1966)#29, (March, 1966)#1 R&B, "Ain't Too Proud To Beg"(May, 1966)#1-8 wks. R&B, #13, "Beauty Is Only Skin Deep"(Aug., 1966)#1-5 wks. R&B, #3, "(I Know) I'm Losing You"(Nov., 1966)#1-2 wks. R&B, #8, "I Wish It Would Rain" (Jan., 1968)#1-3 wks. R&B, #4, "Cloud Nine"(Nov., 1968)#2 R&B, #6, "I Can't Get Next To You"(Aug., 1969)#1-5 wks. R&B, #1-2 wks., "Ball Of Confusion (That's What The World Is Today)"(May, 1970)#2 R&B, #3, "Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me)" (Feb., 1971)#1-3 wks. R&B, #1-2 wks., "Papa Was A Rolling Stone" (Oct., 1972)#5 R&B, #1, "Masterpiece"(Feb., 1973)#7, (March, 1973)#1-2 wks. R&B, and "Shakey Ground"(March, 1975)#1 R&B, #26.

THE SUPREMES

• 1959 - Vocal trio formed in Detroit, Michigan.
• Originally called The Primettes (the female counterpart of The Primes - later The Temptations).
• Consisting of Diana Ross (Diane Ross) (March 26, 1944 – ) (lead), Mary Wilson (March 6, 1944 – ) and Florence Ballard (June 30, 1943 - Feb. 22, 1976). Originally there was a fourth member, Barbara Martin who left in the Spring of 1962 due to pregnancy.
• Jan. 14, 1961 - Signed with Tamla/Motown.
• 1961 - Their first studio recording was "I Want A Guy."
• July, 1964 - After several flop records, they finally broke through when their recording of "Where Did Our Love Go" went to #1-2 wks. R&B, #1-2 wks.
• They went on to become the most successful female vocal group of all time.
• They had 12 #1 records.
• In the beginning, each had taken her turn singing lead, but later, Ross became the focal point of the group. Gordy began lavishing all of his attention on her and tension grew. Ballard became despondent, turning to alcohol.
• 1967 - Ballard was discharged because of erratic behavior, replaced by Cindy Birdsong of Patti LaBelle & The Blue Belles.
• 1967 - Their name was changed to Diana Ross & The Supremes.
• 1969 - Ross went solo, replaced by Jean Terrell. Several other personnel changes took place before the group was put to rest, however, the magic was gone after Ross's departure.
• Feb. 22, 1976 - Florence Ballard died of cardiac arrest.
• Jan. 20, 1988 - The Supremes were inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
• June 14, 2000 - The Supremes began touring in The Return To Love Tour with Diana Ross. However, the lineup did not include Wilson or Birdsong.
• July 10, 2000 - The current tour was cancelled due to poor ticket sales. However, Ross will collect her $500,000 per show fee for each cancelled show.
• Hits include "Baby Love"(Oct., 1964)#1-4 wks. R&B, #1-4 wks., "Come See About Me"(Nov., 1964)#1-2 wks., (Jan., 1965)#3 R&B, "Stop In The Name Of Love"(Feb., 1965)#2 R&B, #1-2 wks., "Back In My Arms Again"(May, 1965)#1 R&B, #1, "I Hear A Symphony"(Oct., 1965)#1-2 wks., (Nov., 1965)#2 R&B, "You Can't Hurry Love"(Aug., 1966)#1-2 wks. R&B, #1-2 wks., "You Keep Me Hangin' On"(Oct., 1966)#1-2 wks., (Nov., 1966)#1-4 wks. R&B, "Love Is Here And Now You're Gone"(Jan., 1967)#1, (Feb., 1967)#1-2 wks. R&B, "The Happening"(April, 1967)#12 R&B, #1, "Reflections"(Aug., 1967)#4 R&B, #2, "Love Child"(Oct., 1968)#2 R&B, #1-2 wks. and "Someday We'll Be Together"(Nov., 1969)#1-4 wks. R&B, #1.

DIANA ROSS

• Diane Ross (March 26, 1944 – )
• Singer/actress born in Detroit, Michigan.
• 1960 - Began singing with The Primettes who later became The Supremes.
• 1961-1967 - Lead singer of The Supremes on Motown Records.
• 1967 - With more attention being lavished on Ross, the group's name was changed to Diana Ross & The Supremes.
• Late 1969 - Went solo, pursuing a singing and acting career.
• May, 1970 - Her recording of "Reach Out And Touch (Somebody's Hand)" went to #7 R&B, (April, 1970)#20. It became her trademark song.
• 1972 - Received a Best Actress Oscar nomination for her film portrayal of Billie Holiday in "Lady Sings The Blues."
• Other film appearances include "Mahogany"(1975) and "The Wiz" (1978).
• 1976 - Appeared on Broadway in "An Evening With Diana Ross."
• 1981 - Left Motown, signing with RCA.
• Her vulnerable little girl image and distinctive high pitched vocals, combined with sheer determination took her from Motown superstardom to world class entertainer.
• 2000 - Ross was saluted in the Divas 2000 Concert and toured with The Supremes without Wilson or Birdsong.
• Hits include "Ain't No Mountain High Enough"(Aug., 1970)#1 R&B, #1-3 wks., "Touch Me In The Morning"(June, 1973)#5 R&B, #1, "Theme From Mahogany (Do You Know Where You're Going To)"(Nov., 1975)#14 R&B, #1, "Love Hangover"(April, 1976)#1 R&B, #1-2 wks., "The Boss"(June, 1979)#12 R&B, (July, 1979)#19, "Upside Down" (July, 1980)#1-4 wks. R&B, #1-4 wks., "I'm Coming Out"(Sept., 1980)#6 R&B, #5, "It's My Turn"(Oct., 1980)#9, (Nov., 1980)#14 R&B, "Endless Love"(July, 1981)#1-7 wks. R&B, #1-9 wks. (with Lionel Richie), "Why Do Fools Fall In Love"(Oct., 1981)#6 R&B, #7, "Mirror Mirror"(Jan., 1982)#2 R&B, #8, "Muscles"(Oct., 1982) #4 R&B, #10 and "Missing You"(Dec., 1984)#1-3 wks. R&B, #10 (dedicated to Marvin Gaye).

THE FOUR TOPS

• 1953 - Vocal quartet formed in Detroit, Michigan as The Four Aims.
• Consisting of Levi Stubbs (Levi Stubbles) (June 6, 1936 – ) (lead), Renaldo "Obie" Benson (1937 – ), Lawrence Payton (1936 - June 20, 1997) and Abdul "Duke" Fakir (Dec. 26, 1935 – ).
• 1956 - Began recording for several labels.
• March, 1963 - Signed with Motown.
• Gordy tried unsuccessfully to make them into a supper club act.
• It was the gritty, dramatic vocals of Levi Stubbs and the songwriting talents of Holland, Dozier & Holland which fueled the group's overwhelming commercial success.
• 1967 - After Holland, Dozier & Holland left Motown, the group's hit output abated.
• 1972 - Exited Motown and signed with Dunhill.
• 1986 - Stubbs supplied the voice for Audrey II, the man-eating plant in the film, "Little Shop Of Horrors."
• Sept., 1988 - Signed to Arista Records.
• Jan. 17, 1990 - Inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
• June 20, 1997 - Payton died of liver cancer. The group stated that he would not be replaced.
• Hits include "Baby I Need Your Loving"(Aug., 1964)#11 R&B, #11, "I Can't Help Myself"(May, 1965)#1-9 wks. R&B, #1-2 wks., "It's The Same Old Song"(July, 1965)#5, (Aug., 1965)#2 R&B, "Reach Out I'll Be There"(Sept., 1966)#1-2 wks. R&B, #1-2 wks., "Standing In The Shadows Of Love"(Dec., 1966)#2 R&B, #6, "Bernadette"(March, 1967)#3 R&B, #4, "7 Rooms Of Gloom"(May, 1967)#14, (June, 1967) #10 R&B, "Walk Away Renee"(Feb., 1968)#15 R&B, #14, "Still Water (Love)"(Aug., 1970)#11 (Sept., 1970)#4 R&B, "Ain't No Woman (Like The One I've Got)"(Feb., 1973)#2 R&B, #4 and "When She Was My Girl"(Aug., 1981)#1-2 wks. R&B, #11.

JUNIOR WALKER & THE ALL-STARS

• Junior Walker (Autry DeWalt II) (1942 - Nov. 23, 1995)
• Alto saxophonist/singer born in Blythesville, Arkansas.
• The name Walker came from his lack of wheels as a young man.
• Mid 1950's - Group formed in South Bend, Indiana as The Jumping Jacks.
• The group consisted of Walker, organist/keyboard bassist Victor Thomas, guitarist Willie Woods and drummer Tony Washington (later replaced by James Graves).
• Late 1950's - Took up residency at the El Grotto lounge in Battle Creek, Michigan where he was discovered by Johnny Bristol.
• Walker became the vocalist when their singer was late for a recording session. His raspy vocal style gave the band a unique heavy duty soul sound unlike most other Motown acts.
• 1962 - Their recording of Cleo's Mood" was released.
• Feb., 1965 - Their recording of "Shotgun" went to #1-4 wks. R&B, #4. It became one of the great party hits of the 1960's and every era since.
• Nov. 23, 1995 - Walker died of cancer.
• Hits include "How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)"(July, 1966) #18, (Aug., 1966)#3 R&B, "Pucker Up Buttercup"(Feb., 1967)#31, (March, 1967)#11 R&B, "Shoot Your Shot"(July, 1967)#44, (Aug., 1967)#33 R&B, "What Does It Take (To Win Your Love)"(May, 1969) #1-2 wks. R&B, #4 and "Gotta Hold On To This Feeling"(Feb., 1970) #2 R&B, #21.

GLADYS KNIGHT & THE PIPS

• Vocal quartet from Atlanta, Georgia.
• Consisting of Gladys Knight (Gladys Maria Knight) (May 28, 1944 – ) (lead), Merald "Bubba" Knight (Sept. 2, 1942 – ) (her brother), Edward Patten (Aug. 2, 1939 – ) (their cousin) and William Guest (June 2, 1941 – ) (their cousin).
• 1948 - Age 4, Gladys began her singing career.
• 1951 - Gladys won first prize on the Ted Mack Amateur Hour.
• 1952 - The group was formed as The Pips, named after their manager/cousin James "Pip" Woods. Later, the name Pips came to stand for "perfection in performance." The original lineup also included sister Brenda Knight and cousin Eleanor Guest.
• 1957 - Began recording for Brunswick Records.
• May, 1961 - Their recording of "Every Beat Of My Heart" went to #1 R&B, #6.
• 1967 - Signed with Motown.
• Oct., 1967 - Their recording of "I Heard It Through The Grapevine" went to #1-6 wks. R&B, #2.
• Jan., 1973 - Left Motown and signed with Buddah Records.
• July, 1975 - Hosted their own weekly TV variety series.
• Oct., 1976 - Knight makes her film debut in "Pipe Dreams."
• The earthy, soulful vocals of Gladys Knight and the cool harmony and intricate choreography of The Pips have kept them in the upper echelons of pop music.
• Jan. 17, 1996 - Gladys Knight & The Pips are inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
• Hits include "Take Me In Your Arms And Love Me"(May, 1967)#98, "The End Of Our Road"(Feb., 1968)#5 R&B, #15, "Friendship Train" (Oct., 1969)#2 R&B, #9, "If I Were You're Woman"(Nov., 1970)#1 R&B, #9, "Neither One Of Us (Wants To Be The First To Say Goodbye)"(Jan., 1973)#1-4 wks. R&B, #2, "Daddy Could Swear I Declare"(April, 1973)#19, (May, 1973)#2 R&B, "Midnight Train To Georgia"(Aug., 1973)#1-4 wks. R&B, (Sept., 1973)#1-2 wks., "I've Got To Use My Imagination"(Nov., 1973)#1 R&B, #4, "Best Thing That Ever Happened To Me"(Feb., 1974)#1-2 wks. R&B, #3, "On And On"(May, 1974)#2 R&B, #5, "The Way We Were/Try To Remember" (April, 1975)#11, (May, 1975)#6 R&B and "Love Overboard"(Nov., 1987)#1 R&B, (Jan., 1988)#13.

THE JACKSONS

• 1966 - Quintet formed in Gary, Indiana by their father/manager Joe Jackson.
• Michael (Michael Joe) Jackson (Aug. 29, 1958 – )
• Jackie (Sigmund Esco) Jackson (May 4, 1951 – )
• Tito (Toriano Adaryl) Jackson (Oct. 15, 1953 – )
• Jermaine (Jermaine LaJaune) Jackson (Dec. 11, 1954 – )
• Marlon (Marlon David) Jackson (March 12, 1957 – )
• First recorded on the Gary-based Steeltown label.
• 1968-1975 - Called themselves The Jackson 5.
• 1969 - Signed to Motown.
• The Jacksons are the prime example of the driven showbusiness family. Their sound had a strong link to the formulaic style of Sly And The Family Stone. One major fallacy was the widespread rumour that they had been discovered by Diana Ross. They were actually discovered by Bobby Taylor of Bobby Taylor & The Vancouvers.
• The focal point of the group was Michael who patterned his stage performances after his idol James Brown.
• Nov., 1969 - Their recording of "I Want You Back" went to #1-4 wks. R&B, #1.
• 1975 - Left Motown, signing with Epic Records and changing their name to The Jacksons.
• 1976 - Jermaine left to go solo, replaced by brother Randy (Steven Randall) Jackson (Oct. 29, 1961 – ). Jermaine rejoined the group for the 1984 Victory Tour and album.
• 1978 - Released the million selling "Destiny " album.
• 1984 - Released the classic "Victory" album.
• 1987 - Marlon went solo.
• Their 3 sisters Janet, La Toya and Rebbie (Maureen) all enjoyed solo careers.
• In the 1980's, Michael and Janet emerged as the two major stars of the family. Michael had been recording solo since 1971 and by the 1980's, he had become a star of grand proportions.
• Hits include "ABC"(March, 1970)#1-4 wks. R&B, #1-2 wks., "The Love You Save"(May, 1970)#1-2 wks., (June, 1970)#1-6 wks. R&B, "I'll Be There"(Sept., 1970)#1-6 wks. R&B, #1-5 wks., "Mama's Pearl"(Jan., 1971)#2, (Feb., 1971)#2 R&B, "Never Can Say Goodbye" (April, 1971)#1-3 wks. R&B, #2, "Sugar Daddy"(Dec., 1971)#3 R&B, #10, "Dancing Machine"(March, 1974)#1 R&B, #2, "Enjoy Yourself" (Oct., 1976)#2 R&B, (Nov., 1976)#6, "Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground)"(Jan., 1979)#3 R&B, (Feb., 1979)#7 and "State Of Shock" (June, 1984)#4 R&B, #3.

MICHAEL JACKSON

• Michael Joe Jackson (Aug. 29, 1958 – )
• Singer/songwriter/dancer/actor born in Gary, Indiana.
• The seventh of 9 children.
• 1968 - Began singing professionally as the lead vocalist of The Jackson 5. The group included his 4 brothers and was managed by his father. They signed with Motown Records in 1969.
• Originally patterning his style after his idol James Brown, Michael became the main focal point of the group.
• 1971 - He began recording solo as well as fronting the group.
• 1976 - The group became The Jacksons after leaving Motown.
• 1978 - Played the scarecrow in the film musical, "The Wiz" starring Diana Ross.
• Became famous for his innovative dancing techniques, consisting of a series of elaborate spins ending with a freeze position on his toes. He also perfected a rather unique routine called "the moonwalk" (a form of the step was originated by Cab Calloway in the early 1930's) which although performed as a backwards walk, gives the illusion of walking forward.
• By the 1980's, he had already achieved superstar status.
• 1982 - His "Thriller" LP sold over 40 million copies worldwide, becoming the biggest selling album in history and receiving a record 12 Grammy nominations. The "Thriller" video was based on the werewolf character and featured elaborate makeup, special effects and exciting dance routines. The dramatic voice-overs were supplied by Vincent Price.
• Starred in a 15 minute film called "Captain Eo," shown exclusively at Disneyland.
• Jackson became notorious for his eccentricities, reclusive lifestyle and his extensive use of plastic surgery.
• 1991 - Signed a billion dollar multi-media contract with Sony Software.
• 1992 - Originally, his video of "Black Or White" was banned because of excessive violence and his continual habit of grabbing his crotch.
• Winner of 11 Grammys to date.
• Aug., 1993 - Jackson was once again at the centre of controversy, accused of child molestation.
• May, 1994-Jan., 1996 - Married to Lisa Marie Presley, Elvis Presley's daughter.
• 1995 - Released his "HIStory" album.
• Aug., 1995 - His recording of "You Are Not Alone" made history by debuting at #1 on the Billboard singles chart.
• Nov. 14, 1996 - Married 38 year old dermatologist Debbie Rowe, 6 months pregnant with his child.
• Feb. 13, 1997 - His son Prince Michael Jackson was born.
• April 3, 1998 - His daughter Paris Jackson was born.
• Hits include "Got To Be There"(Oct.,1971)#4, (Nov., 1971)#4 R&B, "Ben"(Aug., 1972)#5 R&B, #1, "Don't Stop Till You Get Enough" (July, 1979)#1-5 wks. R&B, #1, "Rock With You"(Nov., 1979)#1-6 wks. R&B, #1-4 wks., "Off The Wall"(Feb., 1980)#5 R&B, #10, "She's Out Of My Life"(April, 1980)#10, (May, 1980)#43 R&B, "The Girl Is Mine"(Nov., 1982)#1-3 wks. R&B, #2 (with Paul McCartney), "Billie Jean"(Jan., 1983)#1-9 wks. R&B, #1-7 wks., "Beat It" (Feb., 1983)#1-3 wks., (April, 1983)#1 R&B, "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'"(May, 1983) #5, (June, 1983)#5 R&B, "Human Nature" (July, 1983)#27 R&B, #7, "Say Say Say"(Oct., 1983)#2 R&B, #1-6 wks. (with Paul McCartney), "Thriller"(Feb., 1984)#3 R&B, #4, "I Just Can't Stop Loving You"(Aug., 1987)#1 R&B, #1 (with Siedah Garrett), "Bad"(Sept., 1987)#1-3 wks. R&B, #1-2 wks., "The Way You Make Me Feel"(Nov., 1987)#1-4 wks. R&B, #1, "Man In The Mirror"(Feb., 1988)#1 R&B, #1-2 wks., "Dirty Diana"(April, 1988) #5 R&B, (May, 1988)#1, "Smooth Criminal"(Nov., 1988)#7, "Black Or White"(1991)#1, "Remember The Time"(1992) and "Who Is It"(1993).

COMMODORES

• 1968 - Funk sextet formed in Tuskegee, Alabama.
• Consisting of Lionel Richie (June 20, 1949 – ) (sax/ vocals), Milan Williams (March 28, 1949 – ) (keys), William King (Jan. 30, 1949 – ) (trumpet), Ronald LaPread (Sept. 4, 1946 – ) (bass), Thomas McClary (Oct. 6, 1950 – ) (guitar) and Walter "Clyde" Orange (Dec. 10, 1947 – ) (drums).
• Originally called The Jays.
• 1967 - Became The Mighty Mystics.
• 1969 - Recorded for Atlantic.
• 1971 - After opening for Michael Jackson, they were signed to Motown in 1972.
• May, 1974 - Their recording of "Machine Gun," an instrumental, went to #7 R&B, (June, 1974)#22.
• As their career progressed, it became apparent that Richie was the group's major attraction, writing much of their material and several hits for other artists including Kenny Rogers' hit, "Lady"(1980).
• 1978 - Appeared in the film, "Thank God It's Friday."
• 1981 - Richie began recording solo, leaving the group in 1982. Orange took over as lead singer.
• 1984 - J. D. Nicholas replaced McClary.
• Hits include "Sweet Love"(Dec., 1975)#2 R&B, #5, "Just To Be Close To You"(Sept., 1976)#1-2 wks. R&B, #7, "Easy"(May, 1977)#1 R&B, (June, 1977)#4, "Brick House"(Aug., 1977)#5, (Sept., 1977)#4 R&B, "Three Times A Lady"(June, 1978)#1-2 wks. R&B, #1-2 wks., "Sail On"(Aug., 1979)#8 R&B, #4, "Still"(Sept., 1979)#1, (Oct., 1979)#1 R&B, "Lady (You Bring Me Up)"(June, 1981)#5 R&B, #8, "Oh No"(Sept., 1981)#5 R&B, #4 and "Nightshift"(Jan., 1985)#1-4 wks. R&B, #3.

LIONEL RICHIE

• Lionel Brockman Richie Jr. (June 20, 1949 – )
• Singer/songwriter/pianist/saxophonist/arranger born in Tuskegee, Alabama.
• Son of a retired army captain.
• 1968-1982 - Lead singer of Commodores.
• 1982 - Went solo, remaining with Motown.
• Famous for his self-penned romantic ballads, he has composed numerous hits for other artists including "Lady"(1980) for Kenny Rogers.
• March, 1985 - "We Are The World," a benefit recording in support of African famine relief, written by Richie and Michael Jackson went to #1-2 wks. R&B, #1-4 wks.
• 1984 - His "Can't Slow Down" album won a Grammy for Album Of The Year.
• 1985 - Awarded 6 American Music Awards.
• 1996 - After a 10 year absence, Richie released the "Louder Than Words" album.
• Hits include "Endless Love"(July, 1981)#1-7 wks. R&B, #1-9 wks. (with Diana Ross), "Truly"(Oct., 1982)#2 R&B, #1-2 wks., "You Are"(Jan., 1983)#2 R&B, #4, "All Night Long (All Night)"(Sept., 1983)#1-7 wks. R&B, #1-4 wks., "Running With The Night"(Nov., 1983)#7, (Dec., 1983)#6 R&B, "Hello"(Feb., 1984)#1-2 wks., (March, 1984)#1-3 wks. R&B, "Stuck On You"(June, 1984)#3, (July, 1984)#8 R&B, "Penny Lover"(Oct., 1984)#8 R&B, #8, "Say You, Say Me"(Nov., 1985)#1-2 wks. R&B, #1-4 wks., "Love Will Conquer All" (Oct., 1986)#2 R&B, #9 and "Ballerina Girl"(Dec., 1986)#5 R&B, #7.

DeBARGE

• Family unit from Grand Rapids, Michigan.
• Consisting of Eldra "El" DeBarge (June 4, 1961 – ) (vocals/keys), Mark DeBarge (trumpet/sax), Bunny DeBarge (vocals), James DeBarge (keys) and Randy DeBarge (Aug. 6, 1956 – ) (bass).
• James DeBarge was married briefly to Janet Jackson.
• El DeBarge was originally viewed as Gordy's next Michael Jackson.
• Sept., 1986 - Their brother Chico (not a member of the group) had a #7 R&B hit with "Talk To Me"(Nov., 1986)#21.
• Hits include "I Like It"(Dec., 1982)#2 R&B, (Feb., 1983)#31, "Rhythm Of The Night"(Feb., 1985)#1 R&B, #3, "Who's Holding Donna Now"(June, 1985)#2 R&B, #6 and El DeBarge's solo hit, "Who's Johnny"(April, 1986)#3, (May, 1986)#1 R&B.

RICK JAMES

• See Funk And The New R&B

A SELECTED LISTING OF OTHER CLASSIC MOTOWN HITS

• The Contours - "Do You Love Me"(Aug., 1962)#1-3 wks. R&B, #3.
• The Elgins - "Heaven Must Have Sent You"(Sept., 1966)#9 R&B, #50.
• Eddie Holland - "Jamie"(Jan., 1962)#6 R&B, #30.
• Brenda Holloway - "Every Little Bit Hurts"(May, 1964)#13 R&B, #13.
• The Isley Brothers - "This Old Heart Of Mine"(Feb., 1966)#6 R&B, #12.
• Eddie Kendricks - "Keep On Truckin'"(Aug., 1973)#1-2 wks. R&B, #1-2 wks.
• Billy Preston & Syreeta - "With You I'm Born Again"(Dec., 1979)#4, (Jan., 1980)#86 R&B.
• David Ruffin - "My Whole World Ended"(Feb., 1969)#2 R&B, #9.
• Jimmy Ruffin - "What Becomes Of The Broken Hearted"(Aug., 1966)#6 R&B, #7.
• The Spinners - "I'll Always Love You"(July, 1965)#8 R&B, #35.
• Edwin Starr - "War"(July, 1970)#3 R&B, #1-3 wks.
• Barrett Strong - "Money"(Jan., 1960)#2 R&B, (Feb., 1960)#23.
• Tammi Terrell - "Come On And See Me"(June, 1966)#25 R&B, #80.
• The Undisputed Truth - "Smiling Faces Sometimes"(June, 1971)#2 R&B, #3.
• Kim Weston - "Take Me In Your Arms"(Oct., 1965)#4 R&B, #50.

ODDITIES

• The Ones - "You Haven't Seen My Love"(Dec., 1968)#117.
• Rare Earth - "(I Know) I'm Losing You"(Aug., 1970)#7.

ALSO SEE

• Chapter 23: Soul
• Chapter 32: Disco
• Chapter 35: Funk And The New R&B
• Chapter 37: Eighties Revue
• Chapter 38: The Nineties And Beyond

BIBLIOGRAPHY