Top 10 Greatest Motown Songs

The iconic Motown sound has been beloved by generations of music fans for its soulful, smooth vibes. From the infectious dance-pop to beautifully written lyrics about heartbreak, Motown was a universal language that transcended race and era. In honor of this timeless classic genre, here’s a look at 10 of the greatest hits from the Motown era:

 

1) “Smokey Robinson & The Miracles – Shop Around”

– Written and produced by Smokey Robinson in 1959, this hit song was released as Motown’s second single and went on to become their first No. 1 hit on both the Billboard Hot 100 chart and R&B chart. Its success established Motown as a major label, and it marked the start of their impressive string of hits.

2) “The Temptations – My Girl”

– Written by Smokey Robinson and Ronald White and produced by Smokey Robinson in 1965, this hit single was one of the most enduring Motown classics. It reached No. 1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 chart and R&B chart, becoming an iconic love song for generations to come.

3) “Marvin Gaye – What’s Going On”

– Released in 1971, this socially conscious masterpiece written by Marvin Gaye was a huge success, reaching No. 2 on both the Billboard Hot 100 chart and R&B chart. The song helped to popularize soul music and has become an anthem for social justice.

4) “Stevie Wonder – Superstition”

– Written by Stevie Wonder and released in 1972, this classic fusion of funk, rock, and jazz was a major hit. It became Motown’s first No. 1 single on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and reached No. 4 on the R&B chart.

5) “The Four Tops – Reach Out I’ll Be There”

– Written by Holland-Dozier-Holland and produced by Brian Holland in 1966, this uptempo song was beloved by audiences worldwide. It reached No. 1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 chart and R&B chart, becoming one of the most recognizable Motown hits.

6) “Martha & The Vandellas – Dancing in the Street”

– Written by Marvin Gaye, William “Mickey” Stevenson, and Ivy Jo Hunter, this party anthem was released in 1964 to great success. It reached No. 2 on both the Billboard Hot 100 chart and R&B chart and quickly became a classic dance hit.

7) “The Supremes – Baby Love”

– Written by Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier, and Eddie Holland in 1964, this hit single was one of the most popular songs from The Supremes. Reaching No. 1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 chart and R&B chart, this song is an enduring classic of the Motown era.

8) “Smokey Robinson & The Miracles – Tears of a Clown”

– Written by Smokey Robinson and produced by Hal Davis in 1967, this hit single was recorded after the group had released several other popular songs. It reached No. 1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 chart and R&B chart, becoming one of the most recognizable Motown hits of all time.

9) “The Jackson 5 – I Want You Back”

– Written by Hal Davis, Bobby Taylor, Deke Richards, and Freddie Perren in 1969 and produced by The Corporation, this hit single was the Jackson 5’s first chart-topper. It reached No. 1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 chart and R&B chart, becoming one of Motown’s biggest hits.

10) “Marvin Gaye”

– I Heard it Through The Grapevine” – Written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong in 1966 and produced by Whitfield, this classic tune became a worldwide sensation after its release in 1968. Reaching No. 1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 chart and R&B chart, this song is one of Motown’s most beloved hits.

These 10 classic songs represent just a few of the timeless classics from Motown’s hey