Today we're rewinding even further back to the golden age of Motown. Motown wasn't just a record label — it was a movement that shaped music and culture forever. And these five acts were the heart and soul of that movement.
Let's break it down.
Smokey Robinson & The Miracles
Smokey wasn't just a singer — he was the architect of Motown. As one of Berry Gordy's closest collaborators, Smokey helped lay the foundation for the label's iconic sound. And let's not forget those hazel eyes that still have your great-grandmama swooning.
Tracks like "Tracks of My Tears" and "Tears of a Clown" weren't just songs — they were emotional masterpieces that showed us the power of storytelling in music.
KG's PickSmokey Robinson's Greatest Hits →Marvin Gaye
Marvin Gaye had the sweetest voice in Motown history, hands down. Berry Gordy himself called Marvin the most pure artist he ever worked with.
Tracks like "What's Going On" and "Let's Get It On" weren't just hits — they were cultural moments that defined a generation. Marvin's ability to blend sensuality with social consciousness was unmatched.
KG's PickMarvin Gaye "What's Going On" on Vinyl →Think you know your Motown history? Prove it.
Download The Urban Rewind Trivia App 🎤The Supremes
The Supremes didn't just make music — they started a movement. Diana Ross and the crew paved the way for girl groups everywhere with hits like "Stop! In the Name of Love" and "Baby Love."
Before there was Destiny's Child, TLC, or En Vogue — there were The Supremes. They set the blueprint.
KG's PickThe Supremes Greatest Hits on Vinyl →Stevie Wonder
Lil Stevie Wonder could see EVERYTHING, I don't care what nobody says. This man was a genius. From "Superstition" to "Signed, Sealed, Delivered," Stevie gave us music that was funky, soulful, and timeless.
His ability to play multiple instruments and write hits that still resonate today is why Stevie is one of the GOATs. No debate.
KG's PickStevie Wonder Greatest Hits on Vinyl →The Temptations
The Temptations are the GOAT, no question. Those harmonies were tighter than your uncle's Easter suit, and their choreography was smoother than a fresh jar of pomade.
Tracks like "My Girl" and "Ain't Too Proud to Beg" weren't just music — they were anthems. The Temps didn't just sing — they performed, and nobody could touch them.
KG's PickThe Temptations Classic TV Movie on DVD →The Jackson 5
A young Michael Jackson leading the family band? Iconic. But personally, I believe the Jackson 5 as a group were a great addition to Motown but didn't have the impact of the top 5. Now Michael Jackson as a solo artist could be bigger than all 5 combined — but that explosive work was on Epic Records.
KG's PickMichael Jackson "Thriller" on Vinyl →The Four Tops
Their harmonies and hits like "Reach Out I'll Be There" are timeless. A fantastic group that may have fallen in the shadows of The Temptations.
Gladys Knight & The Pips
Tracks like "Midnight Train to Georgia" are soulful classics. Enough said.
Motown wasn't just a record label — it was a movement that shaped music and culture forever. These five acts were the heart and soul of that movement, and their music still resonates decades later.
Let me know your Top 5 in the comments.
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