First, I would like for you to consider the photo above for a moment and then I will explain why I have posted it. Secondly, I would like for you to consider this quote from Berry Gordy that I have used in our “Grow the Hell Up” Manifesto.
“Money had never been the main thing for me. It’s the legacy that was important.”-Berry Gordy (more…)
In June of 1979 President Jimmy Carter decreed that this month should be set aside to celebrate Black Music. We here at GFM thought it would be a fitting tribute to celebrate some of the seminal record labels that were instrumental in bringing this music to the masses. Each day we will highlight an important work from a particular labels vaults as well as provide some insight on the inner-workings and key players who helped to establish each labels distinctive sound. We hope that you will join us on this journey.
Without any further adieu we would like to present the first release from the label that was so closely identified with the Motor City!
From the era where you had to be a master of the Blues as well as the Rhythm. Written in 1960 for Etta by Billy Davis, Berry Gordy and his sister Gwen Gordy. The song was said to be inspired by James’ former boyfriend Harvey Fuqua ironically dating Davis’ former girlfriend, who was Gwen. Gordy and Fuqua later married the same year the song was recorded.
A few weeks ago we began our “Grow the Hell Up!” campaign. So over the next few weeks we are going to expand the series to include posts that will speak to how we feel that these goals can be achieved by record labels, artists and fans.
Well, we’re back this week with the commentary on our posted manifesto. We hope that there has been an opportunity to consider what we are proposing and with the addition of commentary the conversation /debate can begin in earnest. (more…)
A few weeks ago we began our “Grow the Hell Up!” campaign. So over the next few weeks we are going to expand the series to include posts that will speak to how we feel that these goals can be achieved by record labels, artists and fans. (more…)
Jermaine Jackson tossed a rose after singing in front of his brother's casket during the memorial service on Tuesday. Source: Monica Almeida/The New York Times
Earlier today at the Staples Center, AEG and Ken Ehrlich produced a very respectful and honorable tribute to the greatest entertainer of all times, Michael Joseph Jackson. There were great performances from Stevie Wonder, Lionel Richie, John Mayer, Usher and many others. Of course, hearing his daughter Paris speak at the end of the ceremony was the ultimate tear jerker for all.
It’s been a long day, and an emotional roller coaster. You can check out clips of all the performances after the jump. Once again, I’d just like to say thank you to Michael Jackson for sharing your gifts of love, creativity and music with the world. Thank you to Katherine and Joe Jackson, as well as the entire Jackson family for sharing your son/brother/family with the world. R.I.P. MJ.
This is a great post from Linda Postenreieder @ Petaluma360 regarding the re-release of Classic Motown artist, Chris Clark’s “Soul Sounds“, who’s finally getting her well deserved props.
The event is sold out, but here’s the link to the Pelican Art Gallery. More after the jump.
Berry Gordy, Motown’s founder states “I think Chris Clark is one of the greatest white authentic blues singers of all time. I was fascinated by her phrasing, her subtlety, her wit and her unadulterated soul. I hope this re-release will bring her the recognition and audience she deserves.”
As Motown celebrates its 50th Anniversary, Reel Music, by arrangement with Universal Music Group will be releasing Chris’ classic 1967 album “Soul Sounds” on CD for the first time in the USA in April 2009. Join Chris Clark at the Pelican Art Gallery to celebrate the exclusive pre-release of this CD on March 21st, 2009 from 2 – 5pm.
If there’s a defining presence to Chris Clark, it’s that her talent has it’s own unique vision. In the recording studio, on the pages of a script, on a proof sheet, or splashed across canvas, hers is a voice that resonates with individuality. As a long time member of Berry Gordy’s handpicked creative team, Chris’s skills were honed in the fast moving, highly competitive atmosphere of the early Motown years.
“Love’s Gone Bad” (Lamont Dozier, Brian Holland, Eddie Holland) Soul Sounds (Motown/1967)
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Not sure about all the Teena Marie comparisons, aside from the obvious, but nonetheless a very nice debut album.
Only once in an era does a young performer come along who is so dazzling, so captivating and so undeniable in their talent that they gather the gale force of the most respected icons in the business beneath their wings. Los Angeles-based singer/songwriter Leigh Jones is that amazing once in a lifetime artist. Having made passionate believers and hands-on supporters out of both Motown Records founder Berry Gordy AND Stax Records maverick Al Bell, Leigh Jones is fortified to take on the international pop music marketplace with her powerful debut album, Music in My Soul (on Peak Records – a division of the Concord Music Group).
