Fall 2014
Note: This page is not updated after exhibit semester has ended. Suggestions & sources are often still valid & helpful, but remember to check for newer books, websites, etc.
Motown Records continues to produce music, although it is now a subsidiary of Universal entertainment,
and maintains this site concerning their history:
Motown music is considered essential to the history of rhythm and blues, and is blogged about widely.
AllMusic allows you to listen to many great songs, and see the album cover art, which influenced fashion, graphic design, and popular culture.
Fans have strong feelings about this music, as seen in this "50 Best" compiled by a Dave's Music Data Base, a list of "best of" lists. This video puts together a visual and sound history of Motown's evolution:
The Evolution of Motown Music 1960-1994: Part 1
and The Evolution of Motown Music 1960-2006: Part 2: 50 More Hits
This distinctly American music has received a lot of attention celebrating its 50th Anniversary:
Motown Turns 50 from Smithsonian.com
50 Years Ago Today: Motown Records' First No.1 Single from Billboard
The Motown Museum maintains a collection of memorabilia and archival materials concerning the history of the record label. And all from the Berry Gordy's original home, where he started recording.
"As an irresistible force of social and cultural change, Berry Gordy’s legendary Motown made its mark not just on the music industry, but society at large, with a sound that has become one of the most significant musical accomplishments and stunning success stories of the 20th century. Diana Ross & the Supremes, Smokey Robinson & the Miracles, Stevie Wonder, the Temptations, the Four Tops, Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson & the Jackson 5, the Marvelettes, Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Lionel Richie & the Commodores, Teena Marie, their music communicated and brought together a racially divided country and segregated society, around the world, touching all people of all ages and races." From Motown Museum's "History".
Ebony (magazine)
Essence (magazine)
