The Motown Mile: Pushin' Culture Forward

The history of music is filled with examples of the cross-pollination of ideas, cultures, and artistic movements. Classical composers often re-arranged melodies crafted by their peers, and recording artists created cover versions of songs originally performed by others. The first recording released by future Motown stars, The Miracles, was an interpolation of a hit song called “Get A Job” by the Silhouettes. The royalty check for only $3.19 that songwriter Berry Gordy received from The Miracles’ “Got A Job” inspired him to create his own record labels – Tamla and Motown.  Today, 65 years after Berry Gordy first began building Motown Records, the tradition is alive and well. This Motown Mile exhibition, Pushin’ Culture Forward, demonstrates how Motown’s music continues to be a creative springboard for musicians of all genres and generations. Artists from every musical style record cover versions of Motown songs. Producers sample Motown recordings to create backing tracks for new hits. Songwriters interpolate their lyrics, melodies, and arrangements into classic Motown compositions. This exhibition focuses on how these artists look to Motown Records for covers, samples, interpolations, and inspiration.

Event Details

On view Sept. 1 - 30

The installation consists of 8 exhibit panels that stretch west of Cullen Plaza & the carousel to the east side of the Ren Cen/GM plaza. Attendees can start at either end of the walk.

About Motown Museum Motown Museum is the beating heart of the extraordinary Motown legacy—a destination that brings together people and ideas from different generations, and celebrates the past while simultaneously building a bridge to the future.