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Shouldn't It Really Be The Tamla Sound?

Hey friends,

I've been doing a huge reorganizing project, especially with a holiday visit from my Mom approaching. That meant relocating my record collection because the carpet is being steam-cleaned today. I admit, I am one of those people who will stop and reminisce over an album, remembering where it was purchased, when I last listened to it, admiring the artwork - even when it is not on the turntable.

So, going through my vinyl last night, I was surprised by how few of my favorite Motown artists actually recorded on the "Motown" label. I think we assume that if singers are associated with the Sound of Young America and Detroit in the 1960s that the artist was indeed on Motown. True to an extent, but the imprint of their 45s and LPs may not have been "Motown." I love my music trivia, so here it comes.

Sure, there are the usual suspects like Diana Ross & the Supremes and the Four Tops. But only two of my favorite Motor City acts actually released their music with Motown labels: David Ruffin and Michael Jackson & The Jackson 5. The rest of my faves were on Tamla: Marvin Gaye and Smokey Robinson & the Miracles. The influential What's Going On and Make It Happen first appeared on the Tamla label. If your copies say Motown, they are not original pressings.





















(LP Cover Photos © Tamla/Motown)

What about the Temptations ("David Ruffin & the Temptations"), you ask? They were on Gordy. Of course, Tamla and Gordy were both Berry Gordy enterprises and part of the Motown family. All that great music came out of Hitsville, USA - even the Clash had to recognize. It wasn't until the 1980's, long after the label left Detroit for L.A., that most of their wax was pressed with Motown labels.

Perhaps you are wondering, who were the other major Tamla acts? Try the Isley Brothers, Barrett Strong, The Marvelettes, Thelma Houston, Eddie Kendricks and everyone else's favorite: Stevie Wonder.

And notable Gordy singers beyond the Tempts? No slouches here, either. How about Martha & The Vandellas, Tammi Terrell, DeBarge, Teena Marie and Rick James!? The slogan for Gordy was "It's What's in the Grooves that Count!" You didn't need to tell Teena twice.

Dig out your 45s (or Google the pictures) and check the labels. Have fun quizzing your friends and talking about the Tamla Sound. They'll have no idea what the hell Tamla is.

Peace and Music.

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