The groovy history of Motown Records
The rise of Black music: just before and during the advent of rock and roll, in the 1950s, the demand for traditionally Black music.
Why is Motown so important: Motown was born from a tumultuous era in the history of the United States, galvanized by the civil rights movement.
Music before Motown: During the first half of the 20th century, numerous genres of music that can trace their origins.
Soul, Detroit style: Soul and R&B weren't inventions of the Motown record label, but the work of the Detroit.
Vee Jay Records: The Chicago-based Vee Jay Records was founded in 1953 by the husband-and-wife duo Vivian Carter and James Bracken.
Peacock Records: Peacock Records, founded in Houston, Texas, in 1949 by one Don Robey (pictured, middle), was the premier distributor of rhythm and blues.
The spirit of Motown: The name "Motown" is an homage to the city where it was born: Detroit, Michigan.
The Great Migration: In the wake of the Jim Crow South, the first half of the 20th century saw an unprecedented move.
Berry Gordy Jr.: Raised in Detroit, Berry Gordy Jr. was intensely dedicated to music from a young age.
Why is Motown so important: Motown was born from a tumultuous era in the history of the United States, galvanized by the civil rights movement.