After the amazing discussion with Harry Weinger on Stevie Wonder and other stars of Motown, I began thinking about the artists who “broke” the Motown mold to create their own music and their own sounds. Of course, Stevie, Marvin Gaye, and Michael Jackson along with the Jackson 5 come to mind. Marvin led the charge with the creation and release of What’s Going On. Stevie soon followed by resigning with Motown but this time with total creative control. And Michael soon followed by taking his brothers and leaving Motown all together.
As well as being some of the most talented entertainers at Motown, these three men also understood the commerciality of music and the need for evolution as artists. But where did this understanding come from? All three men began their careers at Motown and had incredible success within the Motown formula and sound. I believe this awareness came from lesson learned at Motown. In their writings and interviews, all three men recognize Motown and Berry Gordy as an enormous source of inspiration, guidance, and knowledge. Berry’s perfectionist attitude obviously influenced Stevie and Michael, both of which are reported to spend hours upon hours in recording studios until they achieve exactly what they intend. An appreciation of showmanship and presence is another lesson which obviously did not escape them.
This all being said, I believe it’s impossible to discuss Motown without discussing the impact the company had, and still has, on artists. Berry obviously directly impacted the three men mentioned above, but it is necessary to reflect upon the huge impact these men have had on artists and consumers around the world. The trickle-down effect of Motown is immeasurable.
-- Kelsey Snyder
