Motown Research Paper

Motown records was instrumental to creating the vibe of the 60’s. It would produce many hit songs and create powerhouse music groups. It would also go on to shape the rock and roll genre as we know it today.

In January of 1959 Berry Gordy would establish Motown Records with an $800 loan from his family and within a few years, would be producing some of the greatest hits of the time. It was the largest African-American owned record company, and business of the time and the most successful. Motown’s story of success is also the Story of civil rights in the 60’s spearheading the movement with its music. Just as Jackie Robinson tore down racial barriers for baseball, the popularity and wide acceptance of Motown music did the same in the music industry. Motown was most recognizable by the sound of its music, a blend of pop instrumentals, jazz and african american gospel. The fast pace beat and positive tone of the lyrics made it popular with the younger audiences, such as teens and adolescents across the nation, giving them a sound to dance and party too. With this much support and financial success Motown was able to continue turning its gears during the time of civil unrest.

He first tried to become a boxer, then a record store owner, then finally moved on to become an auto mechanic. It was with Jackie Wilson that Gordy found his knack for songwriting. By a chance meeting he met a local group called The Miracles. Gordy taught The lead vocalist of the quintet what he knew about songwriting and music, the would for the bases of Motown. The name Motown is a play of Detroit’s nickname The Motor City, with them posting up in a small house in detroit it was very appropriate. The small unknow studio produced Money (That’s What I Want) and gained national