The Legacy of Motown: A Cultural Revolution in Music
If you think of some of the most memorable songs from the twentieth century, there’s a good chance one of the tunes that comes to mind is the product of Motown — a record label based in Detroit that was a powerhouse of hits in the 1960s and 1970s. This iconic label not only produced chart-topping songs but also played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of American music and culture.
Motown musicians, all of whom were Black performers, are often regarded as some of the most influential artists, with impacts felt in virtually every genre today. The label was a beacon of Black creativity and talent during a time when racial barriers were prevalent in the music industry and society at large.
The Roots of Black Music in America
The history of Black music in America begins long before Motown got its start in 1959. As soon as the first Africans arrived in North America, a culture was already emerging. Richard Desinord, an assistant professor of music theory at Michigan State University, explains that enslaved people were often told not to express themselves. In response, they would gather in private to create and share their music, laying the groundwork for what would evolve into a rich tapestry of African American musical traditions.
Jazz is frequently hailed as the genre that kick-started Black music in America. However, Desinord emphasizes that ragtime, blues, and spirituals were crucial precursors that paved the way for jazz’s success. "They all come from traditions," he notes, highlighting that the roots of these genres can be traced back to the plantations where enslaved people first began to express their cultural identity through music.
The Great Migration and Cultural Exchange
The movement of thousands of African Americans from the southern United States to northern cities in the 1920s, combined with technological advances in the following decades, allowed African American culture to become more widespread. As Black artists began to gain visibility, white audiences were exposed to the art being cultivated within Black communities. Desinord points out that this exposure led to a phenomenon where white musicians would adopt these new sounds, often diluting their essence in the process. "If you have something that’s fun and new, of course people will gravitate towards it," he explains, noting that while white musicians were able to churn out hits, they often lacked the authenticity that characterized Black music.
The Birth of Motown
This was around the time that Motown was established, fundamentally changing the popular music landscape by providing a major platform for Black artists. Desinord asserts that Motown followed the same formula that white musicians had used, but it infused a genuine feel into the music. "What these Motown artists did was put Blackness back into Black music," he states, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in their sound.
Motown artists were known for their unique flair in performances, which continues to inspire new generations of musicians. Vocal performance junior Tyrell Harris cites Patti LaBelle as a significant influence, praising her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence. "Every time Patti performed, she made it a goal to outdo her previous performances," Harris reflects, expressing admiration for the vocalism of that era and the raw talent of artists who often lacked formal musical education.
The Impact of Motown on Modern Artists
For East Lansing-based artist Phoenix Miranda, Marvin Gaye’s "What’s Going On?" stands out as a meaningful product of Motown that has influenced her own musical journey. She appreciates the fusion of sounds, like jazz and soul, and the powerful messages embedded in the lyrics. "It’s a perfect balance of a beautiful sound that lands lightly on the ears with words that cut," Miranda explains, highlighting the depth and complexity of Motown’s music.
Miranda emphasizes the importance of recognizing the contributions of Motown and the Black artists who came before her. "I’m just thankful to be a part of this lineage because our people have gone through the unimaginable in this country," she says. The resilience of Black artists in the face of adversity is a testament to their ability to create and share their art, even when the industry often marginalized their contributions.
Challenges in the Music Industry
Despite the significant achievements of Black artists, many still face challenges within the industry. Miranda recalls her experiences as often being the only Black student in the music programs she participated in growing up. She also points out the inconsistencies in how Black music is categorized, noting that songs labeled as R&B may not always fit the traditional definition of the genre. "There are songs that are labeled as R&B that you listen to and say, ‘is that really R&B?’" she questions, highlighting the complexities of genre classification in a racially stratified music industry.
The Enduring Influence of Black Music
Both Desinord and Miranda agree that the influence of Black art is pervasive across all aspects of American life. "Black music has had influences on every genre that we can think of, even things that it didn’t necessarily spawn," Desinord asserts. Recognizing this impact is vital for understanding the diverse cultural blueprint of the nation. The legacy of Motown and its artists serves as a reminder of the rich history of Black music and its ongoing significance in shaping contemporary culture, fashion, and art.
As we reflect on the contributions of Motown and its artists, it becomes clear that their impact extends far beyond the realm of music. They have paved the way for future generations to express themselves authentically, ensuring that the spirit of Black creativity continues to thrive in an ever-evolving cultural landscape.
