The Forgotten Heroes of Motown: Artists Often Overlooked in Popular Discourse

Motown, the iconic record label that produced some of the greatest soul and RB hits of all time, has many legendary artists and songs that are often underappreciated or overlooked. In this article, we delve into the history and contributions of several Motown artists and songs that are unfairly sidelined in the annals of music history.

Why Are These Artists Overlooked?

Through interviews with industry professionals, personal experiences, and extensive research, it's clear that many Motown artists are unjustly neglected in mainstream music discussions and publications. While icons like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and Smokey Robinson are celebrated, there are countless other talented artists who deserve recognition for their groundbreaking work.

Undiscovered Gems of Motown: Vocal Groups and Songwriters

The Wright Specials and Bobby Taylor the Vancouvers are two vocal groups that are often forgotten. Both created masterful albums and songs that showcased their impeccable vocal harmonies and songwriting prowess. Taylor the Vancouvers, in particular, recorded a great album in 1968 that stands up to the best of Motown's output.

Neglected Hits by Motown Writers

From songwriters like Marvin Gaye, Barry Gordy Jr., Edward Holland Jr., Brian Holland, Smokey Robinson, and Lamont Dozier, numerous hit songs have been overshadowed. Some of the most influential and popular tracks, such as:

I Heard It Through the Grapevine (Stevie Wonder) Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me) (The Temptations) Papa Was a Rolling Stone (The Temptations) Where Did Our Love Go (The Supremes) Baby Love and Baby I Need Your Loving (The Supremes) Reach Out I'll Be There (The Four Tops) My World is Empty Without You (The Chi-Lites)

These songs are not as frequently discussed or celebrated as contemporary hits of the era. However, they are masterpieces that stand the test of time and offer insight into the rich tapestry of Motown's output.

Legendary Singles and Stories Behind the Songs

Motown produced countless hit singles that are often glossed over in discussions of legendary songs. For example, Brenda Holloway's Hurt A Little Every Day and Jimmy Ruffin's What Becomes of the Brokenhearted are powerhouses that are unfairly overlooked. These tracks showcase the incredible songwriting and vocal performances that defined the Motown sound.

Album Successes and Talented Songwriters

Marvin Gaye, for instance, recorded the legendary What's Going On album, which is often overshadowed by contemporary rock and folk albums. Similarly, The Corporation's contributions to the Motown catalog are often undervalued, despite their critical acclaim and influence on the genre.

Comparison with Other Artists and Genres

While artists like The Rolling Stones, The Doors, and Pink Floyd are revered, Motown artists often receive less attention. Despite this, Motown's contributions to pop and RB are unmatched by these contemporaneous artists. Motown's dynamic and influential songwriters such as Motown's "The Writing Trio" – Holland, Dozier, and Holland – and other songwriters like Smokey Robinson, are far superior in their craft.

Conclusion

It is evident that the music industry and media often overlook the incredible talent and impact of Motown artists, particularly those who are not as well-known as Stevie Wonder or Marvin Gaye. These artists and songs deserve more attention and recognition, as they offer a treasure trove of great music and unparalleled craftsmanship. Visiting archives, listening to rare performances, and exploring the lesser-known corners of Motown's output can reveal a wealth of overlooked gems.