Motown Records, founded by Berry Gordy, Jr. as Tamla Records just before the start of the 1960s, forged an important step toward the racial integration of pop music. In doing so, left an indelible mark on all popular music heard in the U.S.A. The company which was known as Motown Record Corporation when it was incorporated in the sixties, revolutionized music-making by developing elaborate business systems for quality control and artist development.
Gordy’s quirky vision for music production displayed a sometimes questionable approach to music as art. Upon first hearing the Marvin Gaye song “What’s Going On,” Gordy refused to release it, deeming it too political for the public. Eventually, Gaye convinced Gordy to give in, and the tune became Motown’s fastest selling single to date. Today, Motown Records is a subsidiary of Universal Music Group and is still home to many successful popular artists. Celebrate Motown’s 50-year anniversary with a look back at some of the most important releases in black music. –forrest green III
Take a listen to some of the best Motown albums released over the decades.
The Temptations: The Temptin’ Temptations – A star-studded collection of no less than seven hit singles, including the fan favorite, “Since I Lost My Baby.”
The Supremes: Where Did Our Love Go
This release helped put Motown on the map and the all-girl trio on the pop album chart with contributions from Smokey Robinson, Norman Whitfield and the production team Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier and Eddie Holland.
The Four Tops: Four Tops – A marvel of great singing with the voice of Levi Stubbs heading up the smooth harmonies.
The Miracles: Hi, We’re the Miracles – A youthfully spirited collection of keen songwriting and fine performances. What a debut!
Marvin Gaye: What’s Going On
The timeless social consciousness album that changed pop forever.
Marvin Gaye: Let’s Get It On – Less profound than its predecessor (What’s Going On), the release did plenty to establish Gaye as the sexual “love man” of R & B, and he’ll always be remembered as such.
Marvin Gaye: I Want You – With songwriter and producer Leon Ware, the soul icon crafted an album as much about house parties as it is about the bedroom as a stage for realizing love’s numerous expressions.
The Temptations: Give Love At Christmas
A simply essential recording of Christmas carols.
Boyz II Men: Cooleyhighharmony
This is a fascinating example of R&B evolution featuring the best-selling group in the genre and their incomparable harmonies.
India Arie: Acoustic Soul – The critically acclaimed debut album from one of the most revered artists of the decade helped Motown solidify its spot in the current soul market.
Erykah BadU: Worldwide Underground
A glimpse at a highly creative thinker paying homage to her musical roots in a highly specific presentation.
