The Motown Story

The name “Motown” comes from “Motor Town” (Detroit). The Motown record label, actually the Motown Record Company, L.P.,was founded in 1959 by Berry Gordy, Jr. in Detroit, Michigan, and became famous above all through the production and distribution of soul, pop and R&B songs.

It is over 50 years ago that Motown founder Berry Gordy first borrowed $800 with the hopes of starting his own label and founded Tamla Records, which would be incorporated as Motown in 1970 and produce its first hit a year later Motown played an important role in the integration of African-American artists in popular music. It was the first record company to sign primarily black musicians, and so the Motown sound was born: soul music with a touch of pop.

 The best-known artists signed to Motown include famous groups like The Jackson 5 as well as unrivalled solo artists such as StevieWonder, Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, Lionel Richie and Diana Ross. Together with Motown Records, they all contributed to the creation of an inimitable musical style.

The promotion and development of young artists was of enormous importance for Motown Records. In order to be accepted on the predominantly white music market, the musicians were trained to behave like royalty so as to alter the relatively undignified image which white America had of blacks at the time.

The result was the elegant style of presentation that became associated with the Motown label in the sixties. Today’s Motown continues the tradition of promoting black and African-American musicians.

January 12, 2009 marked the 50th anniversary of America’s greatest record label and global music icon---MOTOWN.With nearly 200 #1 songs worldwide, Motown’s hits continue to appear worldwide in commercials, TV shows and movies and remain an influence on today’s biggest pop and R&B stars.But Motown stands for more than just the music: it is a reflection of the hard work of dedicated individuals overcoming incredible obstacles to achieve great success.