Posts tagged with "Motown"

Brandy × Motown Records

Making major moves to kick off the summer, GRAMMY® Award-winning R&B icon, songwriter, producer, actress, and entrepreneur Brandy inks partners with Motown Records—as announced today.

To celebrate the big news she just delivered a showstopping performance of “Rather Be” as part of the first-of-its-kind performance and content series launched by Motown Records and COLORSxSTUDIOS in honor of Black Music Month. Her instantly recognizable vocals take flight on this fan favorite from 2020’s B7.

Watch it HERE.

About the partnership, Motown Records C.E.O. and Chairwoman Ethiopia Habtemariam shared, “Brandy is one of the most prolific voices in the history of music. Her contribution to R&B continues to influence newcomers and contemporaries around the world. We are ecstatic to welcome Brandy to the Motown family and eager to join her in making musical history.”

Right now, Brandy is putting the finishing touches on her anxiously awaited eighth full-length offering and Motown Records debut—coming very soon.

This will undoubtedly be Brandy’s boldest, biggest, and best era yet, and it begins now!

Brandy has defined the sound, style, and soul of modern R&B. Throughout her incredible career thus far, she has earned a GRAMMY® Award and sold over 40 million albums worldwide, cementing her as an indisputable and inimitable global icon. At the same time, she has appeared in dozens of television series and films, including famously starring in Moesha as the lead character, garnering a NCAAP Image Award. Speaking to her impact, artists such as H.E.R., Drake, Erykah Badu, and John Frusciante of Red Hot Chili Peppers have publicly cited her as an influence, and Daniel Caesar duetted with her on the hit “Love Again” from 2019’s CASE STUDY 01. Meanwhile, her sophomore opus Never Say Never has notably moved 16 million units worldwide to date, while Complex christened her quadruple-platinum debut, Brandy, among the “50 Best R&B Albums of the 1990s.” Most recently, B7 bowed at #12 on the Billboard Top 200 and closed out 2020 on year-end lists from Billboard, Rated R&B, UPROXX, and more. However, she kicks off her next season now with Motown Records.

TEMPTATIONS 60

The Temptations, the legendary, Grammy Award ® -winning group, led by founding member, Otis Williams are kicking off their summer and fall concert seasons this month with fan favorites such as, “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me),” “Ain’t Too Proud To Beg,” “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” and more.

Hitting the road with original Temptations member, Otis Williams will be longtime lead vocalists, Ron Tyson, and Terry Weeks, and new to the group, Grammy-nominated vocalist Anthony “Tony” Grant, and new member, Jawan M. Jackson, from the original cast of the Tony Award-Winning Broadway musical, Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations. Jackson played the starring role as beloved, original Temptation, Melvin Franklin.

Jawan M. Jackson will be making his debut with The Temptations this month as the bass vocalist. Born and raised in the heart of Motown, Jawan M. Jackson is a native of Detroit. Jackson made his professional debut starring in Broadway’s Motown: The Musical. In Broadway’s Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations, he originated the leading role of Melvin Franklin and earned a Grammy® nomination for the musical’s cast album.

He has also appeared in several feature films, television movies, and specials. A graduate of Eastern Michigan University, Jackson began his career as a radio personality for Detroit’s top radio stations. Jackson is also thrilled to be part of the Board of Directors for Rosie’s Theatre Kids.

Anthony Grant, a Grammy-nominated vocalist joined the legendary Temptations earlier this year as a lead vocalist. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, and raised in North Carolina, Grant achieved his initial fame in the music industry as the lead vocalist for Az Yet (LaFace Records). He has also performed with a range of artists, including Brian McKnight, Dr. Dre, Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Celine Dion, Stevie Wonder, and Harry Connick Jr. He has also starred in several Tyler Perry theater productions and television series.

Ron Tyson, first tenor and a lead vocalist for the Temptations, has been a member of the group for 39 years, beginning in February 1983. Born in Philadelphia, PA, and raised in Monroe, NC, Ron was a big Temptations fan growing up and idolized Eddie Kendricks and his style. He feels blessed to be a member of the group and has often referred to his Temptations career as one of the greatest things to happen to him. Ron’s first appearance as a member of The Temptations was on the “Motown 25, Today, Yesterday, Forever” network television special in 1983.

Terry Weeks, a lead vocalist for the Temptations, has been with the group for 25 years, since 1997. Terry grew up in Bessemer, AL near Birmingham listening to gospel, bluegrass, and country music. Weeks spent eight years in the Air Force, from 1982 to 1990, serving in Korea and the U.S. at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, KS, and Gunter Air Force Station in Montgomery, AL. He would often sing locally around the Montgomery base, and performed in Tops in Blue, an Air Force ensemble, made up of active-duty members, that toured globally performing for airmen and their families.

Dr. Otis Williams said, “With the launch of our new album and our 60th-anniversary celebration continuing throughout the year, I am thrilled to have such talented vocalists as Tony Grant, and now Jawan Jackson, join our lineup. Just as The Temptations’ music has been passed between generations, it’s exciting for me, Ron, and Terry to share the stage with new generations of vocalists. We have an exciting concert tour planned for the summer and fall, and we look forward to seeing fans at our shows here and abroad.”

Jawan Jackson and Anthony Grant commented, “It’s amazing to be a part of a group with such a rich history and legacy and performing alongside Motown legend, Otis Williams as well as phenomenal vocalists Ron Tyson and Terry Weeks, all of whom we respect so much, is an honor.”

The Temptations are scheduled to headline concerts around the country this summer and then abroad this fall in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. For concert details, see the link HERE.

To promote their new 60th Anniversary album, Temptations 60, available now via stream and as a CD edition, see the link HERE. The Temptations will be performing the single from the new album, “Is It Gonna Be Yes or No,” written and produced by the legendary Smokey Robinson, during their concerts.

The Temptations, often referred to as American music royalty, are world-renowned superstars of entertainment, revered for their phenomenal catalog of music and prolific career. They are one of the most iconic, bestselling brands in the entertainment world today. While the group has evolved over the years, Dr. Otis Williams has continued to lead the group and carry the torch forward for the next generation of Temptations fans.

Ranked #1 in Billboard magazine’s most recent list of the “Greatest R&B/Hip-Hop Artists of All Time,” The Temptations also appear in the magazine’s 125th Anniversary list of the “125 Greatest of All Time Artists.” In addition, Rolling Stone magazine named the group among the “100 Greatest Artists of All Time.” In September of 2020, the editors of Rolling Stone magazine commented that The Temptations are “Indisputably the greatest black vocal group of the Modern Era…,” and listed the group’s Anthology album among the “500 Greatest Albums of All Time.” The Anthology album has appeared in all three of Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums lists.

The group is celebrating its 60th Anniversary through 2022. To mark this milestone, The Temptations released a brand-new album, Temptations 60, executive produced by founding member, Otis Williams. The new album consists of nearly all-original songs that are both modern and classic in feel and sound. In addition to tracks produced by group members, the album brings the iconic group together again with some of its beloved producers, including the legendary Smokey Robinson and Narada Michael Walden.

The Temptations are currently touring the U.S. and will also headline concerts this fall in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

The Temptations have been the subject of a smash-hit Broadway musical, Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations, based on Otis Williams’ journey, which opened on Broadway at the Imperial Theatre on March 21st, 2019. The musical received 12 Tony nominations, including Best Musical, and won the Tony Award® for Best Choreography at the 73rd Tony Awards at Radio City Music Hall in New York City on June 10, 2019. Now on tour, the Musical is scheduled to open in theaters in more than 50 cities across the U.S. during the next several years. For details, see HERE.

Their Emmy® Award-Winning Television mini-series, The Temptations, which first aired to rave reviews in 1998, is still on air or streaming every day somewhere in the world. Williams’ critically acclaimed autobiography, Temptations, was released as an audiobook edition for the first time in 2020, with a new introduction by Williams.

Throughout the group’s evolution, they have released countless gold, platinum, and multi-platinum chart hits, many of which are considered American masterpieces. They have 16 No. 1 R&B chart albums, 44 Top 10 R&B chart hits, including, 14 No. 1 R&B singles, plus four No. 1 Hot 100 singles.

The Temptations heritage, influence, and contributions to, not only American culture and African American communities but also to the global music landscape are monumental. The Temptations presence in the world today has never been more vivid, and their popularity is ever-increasing.

Variety Hitmakers Celebration

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Variety’s fifth annual Hitmakers celebration took place on Saturday December 4th, 2021, where an array of top individuals in the music industry were recognized for their revolutionary accomplishments in the year of 2021. The invitation-only brunch event was presented by Peacock and the streamer’s comedy series “Girls5Eva.” Amazon Music hosted a red-carpet pre-show before the celebration underwent.

360 Magazine was the guest of Wagoneer, the official partner of the Hitmakers celebration. The all-new 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer was showcased onsite at the event. The brand-new Wagoneer encompasses an innovative style paired with progressive technology. The Wagoneer showcases a pioneering spirit paired with legendary capability. What Wagoneer does in the realm of automobile experiences is exactly what the honorees of this celebration do in the music industry; they both push the envelope and delve into uncharted territory, ultimately making history.

The brunch and celebration acknowledged distinguished writers, executives, producers and artists that have had a hand in the most groundbreaking music of the year. Billie Eilish, Finneas, the City Girls, Lana Del Rey, Jack Harlow, Lil Nas X, Normani, Olivia Rodrigo and Kali Uchis were all in attendance. Such awards that were recognized at the event included:

City Girls – The Future is Female Award presented by Motown Records

Lil Nas X – Innovator of the Year

Normani – Collaborator of the Year

BTS “Butter” – Record of the Year

Olivia Rodrigo – Songwriter of the Year

Jack Harlow – Hitmaker of Tomorrow

Lana Del Rey – Decade Award

Billie Eilish and Finneas – Film Song of the Year

Kali Uchis – Crossover Award

Steven Victor – Hitbreaker of the Year

Polo G – Rising Star ward presented by Amazon music

Ron Perry and Jennifer Mallory Columbia Records – Label of the Year

Mike Dean – Producer of the Year

Wendy Goldstein – A&R Award

Max Lousada – Executive of the Year

Austin Rosen – Manager of the Year

As the awardees were recognized for their successes throughout the year, several cameos were showcased. BTS curated a video accepting their award for Record of the Year for the song “Butter.” Like BTS, Steven Victor, too, sent in a video accepting his award for Hitbreaker of the Year. Other cameo videos congratulating the esteemed group of individuals were sent in from the Jonas brothers, Ed Sheeran and the cast of Girls5eva.

The impeccable design of the venue curated an unforgettable experience for all the honorees and attendees. Several photo op sceneries were created at the outside portion of the venue. The event even had a Girls5eva gif booth where guests could curate their own original gifs. All around, the venue was decorated with bouquets of flowers at each table and at the main stage. Guests were offered brunch inside of the venue that had a wide assortment of delicious treats.

Variety’s Hitmakers celebration showcased and celebrated a wide array of esteemed individuals in the music industry. These groundbreaking names in the music industry were truly honored at the event.

By: McKinley Franklin

NBA Youngboy Partners with Motown Records

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Motown Records, home to some of today ‘s most impactful cultural hitmakers, and YoungBoy Never Broke Again, one of today ‘s most prominent rappers/songwriters in the world, announced a global joint venture with his Never Broken Again, LLC record label.

The new deal continues Motown ‘s rich legacy of entrepreneurial partnerships by combining the label ‘s global leadership with the artistic and creative vision of YoungBoy and Never Broke Again, LLC. YoungBoy and Kyle “Montana” Clairborne will continue to lead Never Broke Again, LLC, a label committed to signing and developing new artists and providing them with a platform to achieve success.

In making this announcement, Ethiopia Habtemariam, Chairman and CEO of Motown Records said, “I’m excited to work with Never Broke Again, a homegrown brand that has created an incredibly authentic and credible movement that represents the next generation in Louisiana ‘s legacy of ground-breaking hip-hop labels. I look forward to working with YoungBoy and Montana to continue to grow their vision and reach their fans around the world.”

YoungBoy said, “I felt like I had a responsibility to my artists to make sure to find the right partner for my label. I ‘m looking forward to working with Ethiopia, Kenoe and Motown Records.”

Montana said, “Motown has been an inspiration for generations, a place that helps develop artists, songwriters and business executives and I ‘m thankful to Ethiopia, Kenoe and the team for making Never Broke Again part of the Motown family.”

Kenoe Jordan, Vice President A&R, Motown said, “I’ve known and admired YoungBoy for years. Growing up in the same city we have a great understanding of one another and this partnership was always something that I wanted to bring to Motown. YoungBoy is an incredible visionary whose confidence in his artistry is only outdone by his dedication and work ethic. I ‘m excited to welcome them into Motown and help bring the Never Broke Again label and brand to the next level.”

The first project from the new venture is set to release in October, with the first single dropping in September. The Never Broke Again Volume 1 compilation of 16 unreleased tracks will feature YoungBoy Never Broke Again, P Yungin, Meechy Baby, Quando Rondo, No Cap, Rjae and Rojay. Solo projects from 16-year old P Yungin and Meechy Baby will follow in early 2022.

About YoungBoy Never Broke Again

YoungBoy Never Broke Again has quickly become one of the promising stars of his generation. Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, he first began producing music when he was fourteen years old. Since the release of his first mixtape, Life Before Fame, in 2015, YoungBoy has continued to grow his fanbase and garner both commercial and critical success.

After the release of the video for “41” featuring Meek Mill, Young Thug, 21 Savage, Boosie Badazz and Yo Gotti in July of 2017, NBA YoungBoy released his mixtape, A.I. YoungBoy, which charted at 24 on the Billboard 200. His singles, “Untouchable” and “No Smoke” both charted on the Billboard 100.

In January 2018, YoungBoy released “Outside Today,” which charted at 31 on the Billboard Hot 100. His next mixtape, Master the Day of Judgement was released in May 2018 followed by a series of EPs Respect, 4Freedom, 4Loyalty and 4WhatImportant which were later combined into the 16-track compilation. His 12th mixtape Decided, featured a guest appearance from Trippie Redd and peaked at number 9 on the Billboard 200 and was followed by his mixtape, Realer, with guest appearances from Lil Baby and Plies.

In 2019, YoungBoy was on YouTube ‘s Top Music Artist list in the U.S. for 101 weeks, making him one of the most-watched musicians across all genres. In October 2019, YoungBoy released the single “Bandit,” with rapper Juice Wrld. In October 2019, YoungBoy released Al YoungBoy 2. Jon Caramanica of the NY Times called album an “excellent work of sing-rap urgency,” as it earned his first #1 on the Billboard 200.

In February 2020 YoungBoy released his mixtape, Still Flexin, Still Steppin, which became his second-highest charting album after his Al YoungBoy 2, debuting at #2 on the Billboard 200. He released 38 Baby 2 in April of 2020, his mixtape that debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 followed by his album, Top, in September of 2020 which includes “My Window” featuring Lil Wayne. Top debuted at #1 on Billboard Hot 100 giving YoungBoy his third #1 album within a year.

YoungBoy rounded out 2020 with his fourth solo project, Until I Return, which was released exclusively with YouTube on November 11th. On November 20th, YoungBoy released Nobody Safety, a collaborative project with Rich the Kid.

HD4President – Touch Down 2 Cause Hell (Bow Bow Bow)

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BATON-ROUGE, LA-BASED HD4PRESIDENT SHARES OFFICIAL VIDEO FOR TOUCH DOWN 2 CAUSE HELL (BOW BOW BOW)

TikTok Views Surpass 1.5 Billion

HD4President shared the official video for his breakthrough hit, Touch Down 2 Cause Hell (Bow Bow Bow). View HERE.

I feel like the ‘Touch Down’ video captures the right vision for the song and matches the viral moments from TikTok and social media, says HD4President. And it shows good vibes and fun times, bringing fun back to the music scene.

Initially released independently, Touch Down 2 Cause Hell (Bow Bow Bow) exploded after a TikTok user uploaded a video of herself and a friend dancing to the track in May 2021. To date, there have been over 1.2 million TikTok creations, including clips by Lizzo, Coi Leray, City Girls, Latto, Niecy Nash, Gabrielle Union and Jessica Alba, and over 1.5 billion views on the platform. Complex included Touch Down 2 Cause Hell (Bow Bow Bow) in its recent round-up of The Best TikTok Trends and Challenges Right Now.

HD4President delivers brazen lyrics, serving as a reflection of his life experiences. Growing up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, he found inspiration for his music in life itself, as well as in the music of favorite artists such as Soulja Slim, JAY-Z and Juvenile. While still staying true to his Baton Rouge jiggin roots, HD4President’s music is a unique mix of hip hop, R&B, soul and pop, which translates into infectious, high energy hits.

CHIAE — “CASH OUT”

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The Atlanta R&B singer Chiae (formerly known as Malachiae) returns with a lush and lavish new single, “Cash Out,” out today on Motown. The swirling instrumental produced by T-Minus (Drake, Justin Bieber, The Weeknd) is smooth yet vibrant, setting the tone for Chiae’s tales of romantic encounters in the lap of luxury. You can watch the “Cash Out” visual HERE.

“Cash Out” is the sort of low-key ballad that Chiae has made his name on over the last few years. Dizzy synthesizers and neon sub-bass provide the soundtrack for a song full of easy romance and casual flexing. Chiae sets the scene early on: when a love interest slides into his side of town, he’s busy, making moves at the bank. But he makes time because they both appreciate the finer things in life. Sunny-eyed, he expresses his affection, while letting the instrumental breathe. It’s beautiful, light and sensual, like Chiae’s best songs to date.

This new single follows a string of sensitive and colorful tracks from the vocalist. In 2020, he released “Bedroom to the Club,” a luxe R&B song full of light-hearted come-ons, and “Get to the Bag,” a money-minded cut about providing for the one he loves. These tracks follow four years of EPs, singles and steadily building buzz for one of R&B’s rising stars. Last year, Chiae played TRILLERFEST, one of the largest virtual music festivals, alongside Migos, Mario, Pitbull, Marshmello, G Herbo and many more to help raise money for those affected by COVID-19.

Though Chiae’s just getting started, he’s already had huge success working with fellow Atlanta superstars Migos, playing a lead role in the movie Million Dollar Quartet, and securing national radio and TV plays on channels like BET Jams. “Cash Out” is proof that he remains dedicated to the grind, but that he’s also able to take time to enjoy the fruits of his budding fame, too. With songs as charismatic and magnetic as this, he’s sure to have even more success soon.

Honoring Mary Wilson’s Memory – Black Music × Pride Month

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Legendary artist/author and original and founding member of the Supremes, Mary Wilson was also known as a tireless advocate for the Black and LGBTQ+ communities.

The Motown/UMe April release of Mary Wilson: Expanded Edition represented an ongoing effort to honor her memory and her passion for celebrating life through music. Her work to raise awareness of the need for tolerance and equality is especially poignant during June, which is dedicated to Black Music Month and Pride Month; her music provides a fitting backdrop to celebrations and events — from intimate events to large-scale community celebrations.

Ms. Wilson believed in the power of music, especially the joy The Supremes brought to the world. She carried on that legacy throughout her career and right up to the days before her untimely passing in February, just weeks before the release of Mary Wilson: Expanded Edition.

“The music was inclusive. It didn’t matter who you were, the music touched your soul. Music, to me, brought all the souls together. I’ve always said that Motown was an ambassador for love and for friendship because it brought people together.” – Mary Wilson in a 2015 interview with Pride Source.

Mary Wilson: Expanded Edition was originally announced to celebrate her 77^th Birthday and honor her history and legacy with the first of her album projects. Ms. Wilson, who retained ownership of her solo recordings, wanted to make the album – and much more – available to her many fans around the world. Mary Wilson: Expanded Edition is a newly compiled version of her solo album, originally released by Motown in 1979, that will now be available on all digital platforms for the first time. Added to the album are eight incredible bonus tracks, four of them unreleased, including the legendary tracks recorded as a follow-up to the album produced by Gus Dudgeon (Elton John, Joan Armatrading, Chris Rea, et al). Featured as the lead single is a brand-new song, “Why Can’t We All Get Along,” produced by Richard Davis and co-written with Angelo Bond, who previously had great success as a co-writer with General Johnson and Greg Perry for “Bring The Boys Home.”

Mary Wilson, who had many fond memories around recording her solo debut, was so excited about the release of this album that, after finalizing details with UMe, she created an impromptu “teaser,” posting what was to be her final YouTube video. “I finally decided how to work with Universal, and they are going to release new Mary Wilson recordings,” she said. “Yes! At last! At last,” adding that the expanded version of the album, known by her and to fans as “Red Hot,” referring to its lead single, will include the Dudgeon productions – and something new. “It was four wonderful songs that were never released… and I also have some other songs, some surprising new songs… Thank you Universal for chiming in with me and helping this come true. Hopefully some of that will be out on my birthday, March 6^th… I’ve got my fingers crossed.”

Sadly, the world mourned the sudden passing of Mary Wilson on February 8^th, which also marked the 56^th anniversary of The Supremes’ #1 hit, “Stop! In the Name Of Love.” She was a world-renowned singer, best-selling author, a humanitarian, artist rights advocate, philanthropist, cultural ambassador for the U.S. appointed by Colin Powell, but she was best known as a “Supreme.” She was the co-founder of the original Supremes, along with Diana Ross and Florence Ballard, which signed to Motown in January 1961, making this year their 60^th anniversary. The group broke down barriers by becoming the world’s most popular female singing trio, with an unprecedented string of 12 number one hits, 33 top 40 singles, a record breaking 5 consecutive number ones, and the first number one album for a female group. Mary Wilson is the only member with the group from their signing in 1961 to their disbanding in 1977. Their legendary history is the foundation for dozens of books, movies, and even three Broadway musicals.

But the often-overlooked history is of the solo careers of Mary Wilson and Florence Ballard. Ballard had previously released an album on ABC Records while, upon leaving the Supremes, Mary Wilson released her self-titled solo album debut on Motown, her label for the previous 18 years. Mary Wilson had the potential of becoming a dance classic. Famed Motown Producer Hal Davis, known for #1 hits on the Jackson 5, Thelma Houston and Diana Ross crafted a lush disco album for Wilson, with six dance tracks and a mid-tempo ballad. Wilson recorded the album while pregnant with her youngest son, Raphael, and for the album’s cover shoot she was wrapped in a jacket to hide the pregnancy.

“Red Hot” was the obvious lead single. But just prior to the release of the album the infamous Disco Demolition Night took place at Comiskey Park in Chicago on July 12, 1979. The “Disco Sucks” movement impacted the release of Mary Wilson, and the single reached #85 on the dance chart and #95 on the R&B chart. This new collection retrieves for history the song’s rare 12” and 7” mixes, which were unique from the album’s version. Despite being loved by fans, and the release of a second single, “Pick Up the Pieces” in the U.K., the Mary Wilson album did not get the recognition it deserved.

In 1980, Mary Wilson headed to Europe to record with Elton John’s producer, Gus Dudgeon. The late Dudgeon, who started as Decca Records’ in-house recording engineer, became a key creative collaborator with Elton John, producing seven No. 1 albums, in addition to creating masterworks with David Bowie, Joan Armatrading, Chris Rea, and many more.

Wilson wrote in her second autobiography, Supreme Faith: Someday We’ll Be Together, “I was very excited about these four songs. It wasn’t the formula disco of my first album. Two of the songs were big ballads. The other two were rock and roll in the style of Tina Turner’s mid-eighties hits; I was certainly ahead of the time.” Three of the four songs were never released. The fourth song, “You Dance My Heart Around the Stars,” first made available in 2015 on a collection of the co-writer’s, Steve Kalinich, a frequent collaborator of the Beach Boys, is considered one of Wilson’s finest performances.

In 1986 Mary Wilson wrote her best-selling autobiography, Dreamgirl: My Life As A Supreme, followed by two more books, Supreme Faith: Someday We’ll Be Together, and Supreme Glamour. Although Mary continued to record and release music through the rest of her career, fans have continually requested to hear this music. These songs remain among the most requested items in the Motown catalog.

While recording more music over the last 10 years, Mary Wilson reconnected with Richard Davis, executive of Gold Forever Music, a publishing company established by Eddie Holland after leaving Motown. In the early days of Motown, Holland-Dozier-Holland was the songwriting team responsible for The Supremes’ string of hit records.

While Mary continued to record, she kept a journal with her most personal thoughts, perspective, outlook, philosophy on life, beliefs based on her experiences and topics of the day. Richard Davis discussed this song with Wilson. Mary told Davis and Bond that their lyrics were able to capture and articulate her feelings into song and help her tell her story. As she was watching and writing about her feelings about the political unrest and the division in the country, Mary felt strongly about releasing “Why Can’t We All Get Along,” now in the hopes of spreading a positive message through music.

TRACKLISTING:

Mary Wilson

Mary Wilson: Expanded Edition

1. Red Hot (6:06)

2. I’ve Got What You Need (5:08)

3. You Make Me Feel So Good (5:51)

4. (I Love A) Warm Summer Night (4:07)

5. Pick Up the Pieces * (5:01)

6. You’re the Light That Guides My Way (3:18)

7. Midnight Dancer (3:08)

#1-7: Produced by Hal Davis

* Co-Produced by Hal Davis & Bobby Belle

Originally issued as Motown M7-927 R1 (1979)

Bonus Tracks

The Red Hot Singles

8. Red Hot 7” Single Version (3:53)

9. Red Hot 12” Disco Version – Remixed by Rusty Garner (7:12)

10. Red Hot 12” B-Side Promo Version – Remixed by Rusty Garner (3:53) – previously unreleased commercially

The Gus Dudgeon Sessions – previously unreleased except **

11. You Dance My Heart Around the Stars** (4:34)

12. Love Talk (4:05)

13. Save Me (3:53)

14. Green River (3:36)

The Richard Davis Sessions – previously unreleased

15. Why Can’t We All Get Along Single version (4:50)

The Fratellis × Rudimental – Need a Little Love Remix

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PLATINUM RECORDING TRIO THE FRATELLIS PARTNER WITH RUDIMENTAL FOR REIMAGINED VERSION OF NEED A LITTLE LOVE – AVAILABLE NOW, LISTEN HERE, THE BAND’S SIXTH STUDIO ALBUM HALF DRUNK UNDER A FULL MOON IS AVAILABLE NOW ON COOKING VINYL

Half Drunk Under a Full Moon creates a dreamlike feel for listeners, retaining catchy, folky aspects while gracing listeners with swaying melodies and playful drumming. – RIFF Magazine

Fresh off the heels of their sixth studio album, Half Drunk Under A Full Moon, Platinum recording trio The Fratellis partnered with Mercury Prize winning electronic act, Rudimental, on a reimagined version of their single Need a Little Love. The track is available on all DSPs now via Cooking Vinyl, listen here. Watch the video here, and a behind-the-scenes documentary about the Rudimental/Fratellis collaboration here.

Says Rudimental’s Amir Amor, Experiment. That’s one of the defining factors I’ve learned — you can get something from the most unlikely places. Adds bandmate Kesi Dyden, When we heard the original version of The Fratellis’ track we were remixing, we were like, wow. It’s a great song, but it’s so different from what we make, and our sound. It’s quite exciting for us to step out of our comfort zone.

Says Jon Fratelli, We had a lot of fun collaborating with Rudimental on this remix. It’s not something we’ve really ever done before, so we are pleased with how well it turned out.

The Fratellis performed Need A Little Love on The Late Late Show with James Corden and The Kelly Clarkson Show, as well as on The Chris Evans Breakfast Show on Virgin Radio, where they also performed a live version of Baccara’s 70s classic Yes Sir, I Can Boogie, which has become a viral hit reaching 200k views on YouTube. The band will release a studio version of the song to coincide with Scotland’s appearance in the delayed Euro 2020 football tournament.

Reminiscent of the Beach Boys, Motown, the Waterboys, and the Bugsy Malone soundtrack, the increasingly ambitious Fratellis shoot for the moon and reach for the stars – and they succeed. – Yahoo! Entertainment

The Fratellis Create the Most Colorful Record of Their Career with ‘Half Drunk Under a Full Moon’ – American Songwriter

The sixth album from the Scottish trio is a melodic rush of soulful pop. – Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Learn more about The Fratellis at their website.

The Temptations Celebration

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THE TEMPTATIONS KICK OFF 60TH ANNIVERSARY YEARLONG CELEBRATION WILL INCLUDE NEW ALBUM, VIDEOS SERIES, AND COMMEMORATIVE EVENTS

Motown/UMe is pleased to announce the kickoff of the 60th Anniversary celebration of the legendary, Grammy Award-Winning Temptations. The Temptations are one of the most revered and prolific musical institutions of all time. Motown luminaries, The Temptations, are today, one of the most iconic, bestselling brands in the entertainment world. With Otis Williams, the founding and sole surviving member of The Temptations, their popularity is ever-increasing and their track record of continuing to sell decades worth of history-making music is breathtaking.

The Temptations signed their first contract with Motown on May 15, 1961. The members of the group at the time of the initial contract signing with Motown consisted of Otis Williams, Paul Williams, Eddie Kendricks, Melvin Franklin and Elbridge Bryant. By 1964, the group had evolved into what became known as the world-famous “Classic Five”—Otis Williams, Paul Williams, Eddie Kendricks, Melvin Franklin and David Ruffin.

Now 60 years later on May 15th, 2021, to commemorate and mark this historic occasion, the Temptations’ 60th Anniversary campaign is being launched and will run through June 2022. The year-long campaign includes national and international concert tours, an upcoming Anniversary album, new video series, and celebratory events along the way, including the re-opening on October 16th of the Broadway musical, Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations, based on Otis Williams ‘personal journey plus recognition of Otis Williams’ 80th birthday on October 30th.

The Temptations’ 60-year legacy spans generations. What began in Detroit in 1961, when a remarkable combination of soulful voices united, was the genesis of an epic journey that has introduced multiple superstars to the world and produced some of the greatest musical masterpieces in the Modern Era.

Otis Williams stated, “I’ve been blessed to take this journey with Shelly Berger, my manager and dear brother, and with all my brothers-the Temptations. Now, to be the last one standing from the classic lineups can be hard sometimes, but I know God left me here for a reason, and that was to continue to share with new generations of fans, the great music that we started back in that two-story house in Detroit, known as Hitsville USA. Music is a universal language, and I know our music, throughout the years has brought people joy, comfort and sometimes even hope. I truly hope that was our greater purpose on earth. Some of the greatest moments in my life have been watching countless fans, from different walks of life worldwide, come together around any one of our songs. Reaching this milestone in my career hasn’t always been easy but it’s gratifying to know that our fans have always been there, every step of the way. I am truly grateful to each and every one of them. We, plan to go back on tour later this summer and, me and my brothers, Ron Tyson and Terry Weeks, Temptations for the past 38 years and 24 years respectively, along with Willie Greene, Jr., and Mario Corbino look forward to sharing this special anniversary with all of you.”

President & CEO, UMe Bruce Resnikoff said, “The Temptations evolution during the 20th and 21st centuries is one of the greatest American music stories of our generation. They are among the most legendary artists in the business, and their meteoric rise to superstardom exceeded all expectations and changed the course of music history, here and around the world. It is a tremendous honor to recognize not only the group’s legacy, artistry and distinguished catalog of music, but also the sole-surviving member of the classic group, Otis Williams, who continues to carry the torch forward for fans today.”

Shelly Berger, the Temptations long-time manager, added, “This is a landmark moment. We wish to thank the venerable Bruce Resnikoff for taking this journey with us and for years of unwavering support. This trailblazing experience with the Temptations, and Otis in particular, is still exhilarating and rewarding sixty years later. To work with a group as gifted as the Temptations, I quickly realized early on that I was at the epicenter of music entertainment globally. Our journey together, throughout the group’s evolution, has been and continues to be a treasure trove of memorable experiences. The Temptations’ music is timeless, and Otis’ tenacity, genius and vision has been the glue that has remained at the heart of the group since the very beginning.”

The Temptations story is undeniably, a road map through American history. The group’s distinguished heritage, influence and contributions to African American and American culture in general, and to the global music landscape is awe-inspiring. The Temptations were pioneers. They were among the first African American groups on mainstream television programs in the 60’s. The phenomenal television exposure popularized their music and coupled with the support of DJs across the country, led to chart-topping success, not only on R&B lists but on Billboard Hot 100 charts too. On their renowned Motortown Revue bus tours during the height of the civil rights and voting rights movements, they often faced racism and discrimination first-hand, but they were not detoured. Instead, they raised their voices with songs that were socially relevant in the country. Many of those songs are still meaningful today. Their songs were also an inspiration to American soldiers fighting in the Vietnam War. Quite often, on concert tours, the Temptations are welcomed by Military Veterans sharing stories about the inspiring effect of their music.

In the 70’s, the rising Black middle class fueled growth in arts and entertainment for Black Artists and the Temptations were among the groups at the forefront of that wave. Their influence on mainstream and global artists, such as the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Tina Turner, Annie Lennox, Jose Feliciano, and others, is notable. Artists who have recorded Temptations’ songs these past 60 years reads like a “Who’s Who” of the music recording industry. By the 80’s, the Temptations’ resilience is visible and singular. They launch a reunion tour that unites David Ruffin and Eddie Kendricks with the lineup at the time, and headline on the Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever network television special. Before the decade is out, they are inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

As the 20th Century nears its end, the Temptations send a message to the world that they like their album Phoenix Rising, will keep rising up and singing their way into the hearts of fans. They win several more awards and both “My Girl,” what many call their magnum opus, and “Papa Was A Rollin’ Stone” are inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, in 1998 and 1999, respectively. In the decades to follow in the 21st Century, the group is awarded their fourth GRAMMY for their “Top 20” R&B chart album, Ear-Resistible, awarded Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance and they receive a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, the group’s fifth GRAMMY.

In addition to The Temptations’ phenomenal catalog of music, it is worth noting that the group’s famous choreography, sophisticated style and wardrobe revolutionized stage performance in the music world forever. Their famous trademarks, the Temptations’ walk, and the well-known four-headed microphone, both inventions of their own, are indelibly stamped on their enduring legacy for eternity.

The Temptations:

The Temptations ranked #1 in Billboard magazine’s most recent list of Greatest R&B/Hip-Hop Artists of All Time and the group appears in the magazine’s list of 125 Greatest of All Time Artists. In September of 2020, the editors of Rolling Stone magazine commented that the Temptations are “Indisputably the greatest black vocal group of the Modern Era…,” and listed the group’s Anthology album among the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. The Group has sold millions of albums and has won five Grammy Awards, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. The Temptations have been inducted into the Grammy, Rock and Roll, Rhythm and Blues Music, and Vocal Group Halls of Fame. They have a star on both the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Apollo Theater’s Walk of Fame. The Temptations delivered Motown’s first-ever GRAMMY at the 11th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony in 1969 for Best Rhythm and Blues Performance by a Duo or Group, Vocal or Instrumental for the song, “Cloud Nine.” They have released countless gold, platinum and multi-platinum chart hits, many of which are considered American masterpieces. They have 16 #1 R&B chart albums, 44 Top 10 R&B chart hits, including, 14 #1 R&B singles, plus four Billboard #1 singles.

Universal Music Enterprises:

Universal Music Enterprises (UMe) is the global catalog and special markets division of Universal Music Group. Working closely in concert with UMG’s record labels, territories, and operating companies, UMe provides a frontline approach to catalog management, an emphasis on strategic marketing initiatives and creating opportunities in new technologies.

Fire in Little Africa

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“SHINING” THE FIRST SINGLE AND VIDEO FROM FIRE IN LITTLE AFRICA IS OUT TODAY VIA MOTOWN RECORDS/BLACK FORUM IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE BOB DYLAN CENTER AND WOODY GUTHRIE CENTER

“Shining” is a celebratory song and video conveying the peak of black excellence that defined the Greenwood District 100 Years Ago. Watch the “Shining” music video here and listen to it here.

Fire in Little Africa, a groundbreaking album of original material, written and recorded by a collective of Oklahoma hip hop artists to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Tulsa Race Massacre releases “Shining” today along with a striking visual. It is the first single from the album that will be released on May 28 by Motown Records/Black Forum in partnership with Tulsa’s Bob Dylan Center and Woody Guthrie Center. Watch, post and share the music video here.

“Shining” was produced by Executive Producer Dr. View and features Tulsa area artists Steph Simon, Dialtone, Ayilla and Jerica Wortham. The video was produced and directed by Boomintree Films with Assistant Director avitiuh.

Giving context to the video, Dr. View shares,”’Shining’ is a trip back in time to Tulsa in 1920, just before Black Wall Street was attacked, bombed and burned to the ground in the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. The video conveys the peak of Black Excellence that defined the Greenwood district 100 years ago and ties it to the Fire in Little Africa movement that is showing the world how Tulsa still shines today.” He continues, “We know that the story of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre is one filled with pain, darkness and trauma for Black people, but the story of Tulsa in 2021 is about the greatness that rose from the ashes. “Shining” humanizes the victims of the Tulsa Race Massacre, taking them out of the history books and showing them on a night on the town living life joyfully. That is what Greenwood was, is, and will always be about.”

ABOUT FIRE IN LITTLE AFRICA

The 21-track collection gets to the truth of what happened on May 31 and June 1, 1921 when a white mob descended on the streets of Greenwood, then a prosperous Tulsa neighborhood known as Black Wall Street, and burned down the business district, destroying roughly 1,500 homes, killing hundreds, and leaving thousands of Black Tulsans homeless. For years, this historic, albeit dire, chapter was left out of classrooms and textbooks as the city attempted to erase this part of its past. The artists heard on Fire in Little Africa get to the truth through urgent songs, recalling stories told and stories lived in hope to usher in a new era for Tulsa as they help the community process this generational trauma through music.

Motown Records Chairman & CEO Ethiopia Habtemariam said, “Fire in Little Africa is a powerful and timely project that will reward listeners with a sense of discovery. Not only does it examine a largely overlooked chapter in our history, the album also pulls the curtain back on the vibrant hip hop scene that has been Oklahoma’s best-kept secret. Like the citizens who created Black Wall Street, the artists of Fire in Little Africa are driven by creativity, love, and an uplifting, ego-free sense of community. The project aligns perfectly with Black Forum’s commitment to introducing the next generation of game changers.”

Stevie “Dr. View” Johnson, PhD, Manager, Education & Diversity Outreach at the Woody Guthrie Center | Bob Dylan Center and the album’s executive producer added, “Fire in Little Africa has evolved into a communal hip hop movement and we’re excited that we get to share the flavor, history and legacy of Black Wall Street with the world, in collaboration with the amazing leadership of the Motown/Black Forum family. We’re grateful for Ethiopia’s foresight in providing us an opportunity to share our important stories with the world. There are Black Wall Streets across the diaspora and we unequivocally know that Fire in Little Africa will inspire many people. In the words of Steph Simon, everything is us.”

In this feature, Rolling Stones noted, Fire in Little Africa is poised to teach the world about that long-suppressed history, from locals who grew up in a community that still lives with the aftermath of the massacre. Just as important, the artists involved in the project also hope it serves as a launching-pad moment for Tulsa’s hip-hop scene, which has long flown under the national radar

The album was recorded in Greenwood over a five-day period in March 2020. Studios were set up at the Greenwood Cultural Center and other locations, including the former home of 1921 massacre mastermind/KKK leader Tate Brady. The house is now owned by former NFL first-round draft pick and Tulsa native Felix Jones. The Tulsa World was on hand to speak with the artists involved in the historic sessions. Read the article here and check out the accompanying video here.

“Fireside with Dr. View” is a weekly podcast featuring “Dr. View” in conversation with thought leaders in activism, academia and culture, centered on the movement behind the Fire in Little Africa music. Listen to “Fireside with Dr. View” here. Hosts Ali Shaw and Doc Free sit down with Fire in Little Africa artists, Tulsa community leaders and national voices for conversations on music and culture in the “Fire in Little Africa” podcast, which can be found here.

Located in the Tulsa Arts District, the Woody Guthrie Center opened in 2013. The Bob Dylan Center is expected to open on the same block within the next year. Both are projects of the George Kaiser Family Foundation, the primary funder for Fire in Little Africa. The album is chronicled in a documentary film, which will be released later this year.

Fire in Little Africa marks the first new material released by Black Forum since the label’s relaunch earlier this year. Black Forum originally debuted in 1970 with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Why I Oppose The War In Vietnam, which won a Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album. The label reissued Dr. King’s influential speech earlier this year.