Clarence Avant was one of our favorite people. He exemplified a certain level of cool and street smarts that allowed him to move confidently into worlds that nobody had prepared him for, never doubting he could figure it out.
Clarence Avant, lovingly known as “The Black Godfather,” was called home to rest on August 13, at the age of 92. One of Black music’s most extraordinary executives, Avant was renowned for his business acumen, industry expertise, philanthropist efforts and social justice advocacy.
An overflowing crowd came out for the world premiere of “Motown: Celebrating the Music, the Magic, the Love” on Saturday, October 1, at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts.
November 28: Record executive, songwriter, and film producer Berry Gordy Jr. was born in Detroit, MI, 1929
Newly Approved Commissioner of Arts and Culture for the City of Beverly Hills, Karla Gordy Bristol, provides blueprints to following one’s passion by servicing others.
Berry Gordy founded a Motown sound that defined a generation, fostered legendary music careers, and constructed a timeless genre that continues to influence musicians today. The Kennedy Center has tapped Gordy as an honoree.
To celebrate The Temptations’ 60th anniversary, Motown/UMe announced the kickoff of a yearlong tribute to one of the most revered and prolific musical institutions in history.
The Supremes were always known as the “sweethearts of Motown.” Mary, along with Diana Ross and Florence Ballard, came to Motown in the early 1960’s. After an unprecedented string of number one hits, television and nightclub bookings, they opened doors for themselves, the other Motown acts, and many, many others.
Mary Wilson, founding and original member of The Supremes, passed away suddenly this evening according to a statement from her longtime friend and publicist, Jay Schwartz. She was at her home in Henderson, NV. She was 76.
Legendary music executive Berry Gordy was honored with a square on the corner of Sunset and Argyle, directly under the 6255 Sunset building that once housed his famed Motown Records once it moved from Detroit to Los Angeles.
The celebration honored Motown music legends, Berry Gordy and Smokey Robinson.
He announced his retirement during the 60th-anniversary celebration of Motown that took place in Detroit last month.
Singer Jackie Wilson, who helped usher in the emergence of soul and rhythm-and-blues music in the 1960s, was posthumously honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Los Angeles Sentinel Managing Editor Brandon I. Brooks interviews Motown legends on the red carpet at the premiere of Showtime’s latest documentary, “Hitsville: The Making of Motown.” The event took place on August 8, 2019 at the Harmony Gold Theater. Click here to read more.
Local non-profit the Talented Tenth Publications uses Black History books to inspire children.