Motown Quiz- Merit Scholar

Berry Gordy Jr. is the correct answer because he is the founder of Motown Records. Motown Records was established by Gordy in 1959 in Detroit, Michigan. He started the record label with the aim of creating music that would appeal to a wide audience, regardless of race. Motown Records went on to become one of the most successful and influential record labels in history, launching the careers of numerous legendary artists such as Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, and The Jackson 5.

The correct answer is working class and poor neighborhoods. This is because Motown, a record label that was popular in the 1960s, primarily signed and promoted young artists from these socioeconomic backgrounds. Motown aimed to provide opportunities for talented individuals from disadvantaged communities, and many of their artists, such as Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder, emerged from working class and poor neighborhoods.

Stevie Wonder was signed by Motown in 1961 when he was just 11 years old. He is a blind singer and multi-instrumentalist, known for his incredible talent and contributions to the music industry.

Motown Records was founded and started in Michigan. Motown Records, also known as Hitsville U.S.A., was established in Detroit, Michigan in 1959 by Berry Gordy Jr. The label played a significant role in shaping the sound of popular music during the 1960s and 1970s, with artists like Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, and The Jackson 5. Michigan became the birthplace of the Motown sound, making it the correct answer.

The correct answer is Hitsville USA. This sign was hung over the front door of the white frame house that the founder of Motown Records purchased to serve as the headquarters of the company. The phrase "Hitsville USA" became synonymous with Motown and represented the successful and influential music that was produced by the record label.

Moving Motown Records headquarters to a major city in 1972 allowed for expansion into the film industry. Diana Ross, an artist associated with Motown Records, earned an Oscar nomination for her portrayal of Billie Holiday in the film Lady Sings the Blues.

Motown was special because it was the most successful African-American owned company and it produced formidable music that became a cultural icon. This means that all of the given options are correct, as they accurately describe the reasons why Motown was special.

The Supremes had 10 Number 1 Pop hits and 5 more in the top ten, making them Motown's flagship act.

Motown relocated its headquarters to Los Angeles in 1972. This move was motivated by the desire to tap into the growing market of the West Coast and to be closer to the emerging genres of funk and disco. Los Angeles offered a vibrant music scene and opportunities for collaboration with other artists and producers. The relocation to Los Angeles allowed Motown to expand its influence and reach a wider audience, solidifying its place in the history of American popular music.

Motown was a genre of music that originated in the 1960s and was characterized by a blend of African-American Church Tradition, Pop, and Jazz. The African-American Church Tradition influenced the soulful and gospel-like vocals, while Pop elements added catchy melodies and hooks, and Jazz contributed to the sophisticated harmonies and instrumental arrangements. This combination of musical styles is what made Motown unique and popular during its time.

Marvin Gaye's record in 1971 was hailed as the greatest soul music album ever recorded. This suggests that his album had a significant impact on the genre and was highly acclaimed by both critics and audiences.

Motown Records was founded in 1959. This record company played a significant role in shaping the sound of American popular music in the 1960s and 1970s. It was founded by Berry Gordy Jr. in Detroit, Michigan, and became known for its production of soul, R&B, and pop music. Motown Records launched the careers of many iconic artists such as Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, and The Jackson 5. The year 1959 marks the beginning of this influential record label's journey.

The correct answer is boxer because before starting Motown Records, the founder had tried his hand at being a boxer. This suggests that the founder had pursued a career in boxing before venturing into the music industry with Motown Records.

In the 1970s, Stevie Wonder dominated the musical scene as a Motown Record artist. Wonder achieved great success during this decade with his unique blend of soul, pop, and funk music. He released several critically acclaimed albums, such as "Talking Book," "Innervisions," and "Songs in the Key of Life," which showcased his exceptional songwriting and musical talent. Wonder's innovative sound and socially conscious lyrics resonated with audiences, earning him numerous accolades and establishing him as one of the most influential artists of the era.

Boys II Men signed with Motown after the original founder left because Motown was going through a transition period and seeking new talent. The original founder, Berry Gordy, stepped down as the head of the company in 1991, and Boys II Men signed with Motown in 1992. This timing aligns with the fact that they joined the label after the departure of the original founder.

Motown Records used the technique of asking random teens questions on the street to gauge public opinion/taste. This method allowed them to directly interact with their target audience and gather real-time feedback on their music and artists. By engaging with the younger demographic, Motown Records could stay in touch with the evolving trends and preferences of their audience, helping them make informed decisions about their music releases and marketing strategies.

The Marvelettes had Motown's first Pop Number 1 hit.

The correct answer is "The 12 Year old Genius." This album refers to the album "Little Stevie Wonder/The 12 Year old Genius," which was released in 1963 and became Motown's first Number 1 record. The album showcased the immense talent of Stevie Wonder at a young age and propelled him to stardom.

In 1969, Motown Records earned its first Grammy Award for The Temptations. The Temptations were a highly successful vocal group signed to Motown, known for their soulful harmonies and energetic performances. They had several hit songs during the 1960s, including "My Girl" and "Ain't Too Proud to Beg." Their talent and popularity contributed to Motown's success and recognition at the Grammy Awards.

In 1988, the founder of Motown Records sold the company to MCA.