DonAZ

January 30th, 2023 at 2:14 PM ^

Motown had an incredible influence on the music that followed.  Pretty much everyone from the "British invasion" -- The Beatles, The Who, The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and others -- cite what they heard in those songs as an influence on how pursued their music.  It wasn't the only influence, but it was certainly a significant one.

I was born and raised in the Detroit area from 1959 to 1969, and I can recall the 'energy' of the music scene as we could pick it up from our little transistor radios from, among other sources, CKLW out of Windsor.  It was an amazing time for music.

One of the songs listed that Barrett Strong wrote was I Wish it Would Rain, which is one of my favorite Motown songs.  Hearing it brings back a flood of memories.  David Ruffin's vocals are amazing.

For those curious, investigating the legacy of James Jamerson, who was Motown's house band bass player, will yield some eye-opening results.  Pretty much every bass player from that era cites him as being their primary influence, including Paul McCartney, John Entwistle, Jack Bruce, John Paul Jones, and others.

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Harball sized HAIL

January 30th, 2023 at 3:06 PM ^

"Hitsville: The Making of Motown" has been running on Showtime for a year or more.  I've seen plenty of docs & Motown specials through the years.  This one is by far the best I've seen.  Does a deeper dive into explaining what made Motown the success it was.  Plus of course music throughout.

The museum is worth the effort as well. 

Did not realize he wrote - Wish it would Rain.  My favorite Tempts song.

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rob f

January 30th, 2023 at 7:10 PM ^

Thanks for posting this thread Macenblu, and thanks also to everyone who linked songs by Barrett Strong.  What great reminders those songs are of the greatness of Mr Strong and his music.  May he rest in peace.

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