Pioneering Motown artist and songwriter behind iconic hits like "Money (That's What I Want)" and "I Heard It Through the Grapevine", shaping the sound of soul and R&B music.
Barrett Strong is best known for his iconic recording of "Money (That's What I Want)," the first hit single for the legendary Motown record label. As a songwriter, he also penned some of Motown's most enduring classics, including "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" and "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone," in collaboration with producer Norman Whitfield.
Barrett Strong Jr. was born on February 5, 1941, in West Point, Mississippi, to Barrett Strong Sr., a minister. When he was four years old, his family moved to Detroit, Michigan, where his father bought him a piano, sparking his interest in music. Strong began singing at Hutchins Middle School, where his classmates included future Motown legends Aretha Franklin and Lamont Dozier.
In 1959, Strong was among the first artists signed to Berry Gordy's fledgling label, Tamla Records. He recorded "Money (That's What I Want)" live at Motown's Studio A, accompanied by himself on piano. The song reached No. 2 on the US RB charts in 1960 and sold over one million copies, earning a gold disc from the RIAA. Although Gordy later disputed Strong's co-writing credits, the song remains an essential part of Motown's legacy.
Strong's collaboration with producer Norman Whitfield yielded some of Motown's most iconic songs, including "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" (performed by Marvin Gaye and Gladys Knight & the Pips), "War" (performed by The Temptations), "Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)" (performed by The Temptations), and "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone" (performed by The Temptations). These songs cemented Strong's status as a master songwriter and earned him a place in the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2004, alongside Whitfield.
Barrett Strong's contributions to Motown and the music industry as a whole are immeasurable. His songs have been covered by countless artists, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Led Zeppelin. Strong's legacy extends beyond his music, too – he paved the way for future Motown artists and helped shape the sound of soul and R&B music.
Barrett Strong's journey from a Detroit middle school to the top of the Motown charts is a testament to the power of talent, hard work, and determination. His legacy inspires future generations of musicians and songwriters to follow in his footsteps, creating music that touches hearts and lives.
96 Years Old
Founded the legendary Motown Records, revolutionizing the music industry with iconic artists like Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, and The Jackson 5, producing timeless hits that still resonate today.
86 Years Old
Legendary Motown icon behind timeless hits like "My Girl" and "Tracks of My Tears", crafting soulful melodies and poetic lyrics that captivated generations.
76 Years Old
A legendary musician and innovator who pioneered soul and R&B music, known for his iconic voice, masterful keyboard playing, and socially conscious songwriting.
87 Years Old
Soulful voice and iconic songs like "What's Going On" and "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" that continue to inspire generations with their timeless blend of R&B, soul, and social commentary.
