In 1959, a young songwriter named Berry Gordy started a record company with an $800 loan from his family. That company, Motown, would not only become the first Black-owned label to reach widespread national success; it would substantially transform music and culture. This three-week course explores the evolution of the label, from its beginnings through its 1960s heyday featuring acts like the Supremes, the Four Tops, and the Temptations. The 1970s brought political statements, youthful pop, and disco, while the 1980s ushered in funk and smooth R&B. Through multimedia presentations and discussions, this three-session virtual course, taught by Kit O’Toole, will cover all these eras, enhancing understanding of Motown’s history and enduring legacy.
