10 Motown Acts That Redefined the Landscape of American Music

In 1959, a small Detroit-based record label launched, forever changing the landscape of American music. 

Motown Records, founded by Berry Gordy Jr. with an $800 loan,¹ would go on to produce over 180 No. 1 hits worldwide. But what made Motown so special? 

The Motown Magic: A Brief Overview

• The “Motown Sound”: A unique blend of pop and soul, characterized by tambourines, drums, and call-and-response vocals
• The Funk Brothers: Motown’s house band, responsible for the instrumental backbone of countless hits
• Crossover appeal: Motown artists found success on both R&B and pop charts, breaking racial barriers in music
• Quality control: Weekly meetings where new songs were scrutinized before release, ensuring only the best made it to the public
• Social impact: Motown’s success during the Civil Rights era helped bridge racial divides through music

The legacy of Motown continues to influence artists today. Now, let’s take a look into the cream of the crop – the top 10 Motown artists who defined an era and left an indelible mark on music history.

1. The Supremes: Reigning Queens of Motown

The Supremes weren’t just the most successful Motown act; they were one of the best-selling girl groups of all time. With Diana Ross at the helm, they scored 12 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 between 1964 and 1969.

Their string of hits, including “Where Did Our Love Go” and “Baby Love,” showcased the quintessential Motown sound. The group’s elegant style and crossover appeal helped break down racial barriers in popular music, paving the way for future African American artists.

2. Marvin Gaye: The Prince of Soul

Marvin Gaye’s career evolution mirrored the changing face of Motown itself. Starting with romantic ballads like “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You),” Gaye later crafted socially conscious masterpieces such as “What’s Going On.”

His 1971 album of the same name is widely regarded as one of the greatest albums ever made, tackling issues like poverty, drug abuse, and the Vietnam War. 

3. Stevie Wonder: A Musical Prodigy

Signed to Motown at just 11 years old, Stevie Wonder grew from “Little Stevie Wonder” into one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. His innovative use of synthesizers and drum machines in the 1970s helped shape the sound of R&B and pop music.

Albums like “Innervisions” and “Songs in the Key of Life” showcase Wonder’s genius as a songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer. His ability to blend social commentary with catchy melodies has earned him 25 Grammy Awards, the most ever for a solo artist.

4. The Temptations: Smooth Moves & Soulful Grooves

With their impeccable harmonies and choreographed dance moves, The Temptations embodied the polish and professionalism of Motown. Their 1965 hit “My Girl” remains one of the label’s most iconic songs.

The group’s ability to adapt to changing musical trends kept them relevant through the decades. From the early doo-wop influenced “The Way You Do the Things You Do” to the psychedelic soul of “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” The Temptations proved their versatility time and again.

5. The Four Tops: Harmony in Motion

Led by Levi Stubbs’ powerful baritone, The Four Tops were a cornerstone of the Motown sound. Their 1965 hit “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)” topped both the pop and R&B charts.

The group’s longevity was remarkable, with the original lineup performing together for over four decades. Songs like “Reach Out I’ll Be There” and “Bernadette” showcase their ability to convey raw emotion through perfectly blended harmonies.

6. The Jackson 5: Young Superstars

Before Michael Jackson became the “King of Pop,” he and his brothers took Motown by storm as The Jackson 5. Their debut single, “I Want You Back,” shot to No. 1 in 1969, making them the first group to have their first four singles top the Billboard Hot 100.

7. Smokey Robinson & The Miracles: Motown’s First Superstars

Not only was Smokey Robinson a gifted performer, but he was also one of Motown’s most prolific songwriters. As the frontman of The Miracles, he delivered hits like “The Tracks of My Tears” and “I Second That Emotion.”

Robinson’s songwriting talents extended beyond his own group, penning hits for other Motown artists like The Temptations and Marvin Gaye. 

8. Martha and the Vandellas: Dancing in the Street

With their energetic performances and string of hits, Martha and the Vandellas embodied the spirit of 1960s Motown. Their 1964 smash “Dancing in the Street” became an anthem for the civil rights movement.

The group’s other hits, including “Heat Wave” and “Nowhere to Run,” showcased lead singer Martha Reeves’ powerful vocals and the Vandellas’ tight harmonies. 

9. The Commodores: Funk Meets Soul

While best known for launching Lionel Richie’s career, The Commodores were a formidable group in their own right. They brought a harder funk edge to Motown in the 1970s with hits like “Brick House.”

The group’s ability to balance uptempo funk tracks with smooth ballads like “Easy” and “Three Times a Lady” demonstrated their versatility. The Commodores helped Motown transition into a new era of R&B and soul music.

10. Diana Ross: From Supreme to Solo Superstar

After leading The Supremes to unparalleled success, Diana Ross embarked on a solo career that further cemented her status as a music icon. Her first solo single, “Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand),” set the tone for a career marked by both commercial success and artistic growth.

Ross’s ability to tackle diverse musical styles, from the disco-infused “I’m Coming Out” to the jazz standard “Good Morning Heartache,” showcased her versatility as a performer. Her success as both a recording artist and actress made her one of Motown’s most recognizable stars.

Source:
1. Detroit Historical Society