Motown records was founded in 1959 by Berry Gordy under it's original title, Tamla Records. This was significant at that time because Berry Gordy was the first African American to own a record label. Consequently Motown employed lots of African American’s. These musician ability to play was astounding and this is recognised by the fact that Motown’s recording were done in one take with a live band, this establishing Motown’s sound. This well produced music even went on to change the white’s conception of the African American music scene. Famous musician Stevie Wonder signed on to Motown records at the age of just 12, Stevie was a well talented pianist and musician and that still remains today. In America Stevie has achieved 9 number one hits and has sold worldwide over one hundred million albums. Despite the fact Stevie lacks sight he still has the musical ability to play other instruments such as the harmonica and the drums.
Also the famous artists the Jackson 5 were signed to Motown records, the biggest role in Motown’s sound was the Funk Brothers, this was a tight group of working musicians known for their ability to play to an exceptional standard. The Funk Brothers performed as the instrumentalists on most of the Motowns recordings. A few of the Funk Brothers were, Earl Van Dyke, Joe Messina, Benny Benjamin and James Jameson.
The Motown sound drew influence from the gospel music in America at the time.
Motown has went on to influence genres such as funk, soul and disco. This is apparent as the guitar riffs and structures are similar.
