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Barrett Strong

Barrett Strong is often remembered as the voice behind one of Motown's earliest hits, "Money (That's What I Want)," which was released in 1959. Born on February 5, 1941, in West Point, Mississippi, Strong would go on to become a key figure in the shaping of the Motown sound. Starting his career as a singer, he quickly demonstrated a talent that went beyond performing. After the success of "Money," which was the first hit record for Berry Gordy's Motown enterprise, Strong pivoted towards songwriting, often collaborating with producer Norman Whitfield.

Together, Strong and Whitfield were a formidable songwriting duo, crafting some of the most enduring hits for the label. They penned tracks for a multitude of artists, including the Temptations, for whom they wrote "Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)," "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone," "Psychedelic Shack," and "Cloud Nine" — igniting the psychedelic soul phase of Motown. Strong's contribution to the Motown sound, both as a singer and songwriter, has been widely recognized. Over the years, his work has been celebrated and revisited, with compilations such as "The Collection" and digital releases on MotownSelect.com highlighting both his vocal and songwriting prowess. His influence remains evident, and his legacy has become an intrinsic part of the musical tapestry that defines the golden era of Motown.

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