Barrett Strong, American soul singer-songwriter and pianist
Barrett Strong: A Motown Pioneer as Singer and Legendary Songwriter
Barrett Strong, born on February 5, 1941, in West Point, Mississippi, is an influential American artist primarily celebrated for his dual talents as a pioneering singer and a prolific songwriter. His remarkable career spans decades, profoundly impacting the landscape of soul and R&B music, particularly through his association with the legendary Motown Records.
Barrett Strong's Groundbreaking Role as Motown's First Hit Artist
While his contributions as a songwriter often overshadow his vocal work, Strong holds a significant place in music history as the very first artist to record a major hit for Motown Records. In 1959, he released "Money (That's What I Want)," a raw, energetic R&B anthem that not only became a Top 40 R&B hit but also laid a foundational stone for the burgeoning Motown sound. This iconic track, later famously covered by rock legends like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, proved the early viability and immense potential of Berry Gordy's fledgling label, establishing a template for future success and global reach.
The Iconic Songwriting Partnership: Barrett Strong and Norman Whitfield
Strong's most enduring legacy is undoubtedly his exceptional work as a songwriter, where he forged a highly successful and critically acclaimed partnership with producer Norman Whitfield. This dynamic duo was responsible for crafting some of Motown's most socially conscious and musically innovative hits, particularly during the label's "psychedelic soul" era of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Strong's lyrical genius often provided a poignant and vivid narrative, tackling themes of war, poverty, and social unrest, perfectly complementing Whitfield's groundbreaking and experimental arrangements.
- Iconic Songs for The Temptations: A significant portion of Strong's most famous lyrical contributions can be found in the discography of The Temptations. He penned the evocative lyrics for many of their classic tracks, including the Grammy-winning "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone," a poignant narrative about an absent father that resonated deeply with audiences and became a number-one pop hit. Other notable collaborations for The Temptations include the socially charged "Cloud Nine" and "Ball of Confusion (That's What the World Is Today)," both pivotal in defining the group's "psychedelic soul" sound and addressing contemporary societal issues. Their collaborative efforts helped The Temptations evolve their sound, tackling more mature and complex themes, thereby expanding Motown's artistic boundaries.
- Broader Impact on Motown: Beyond The Temptations, Strong's songwriting credits with Whitfield extend to other Motown luminaries. For instance, he co-wrote the powerful anti-war anthem "War" for Edwin Starr, which became a number-one pop hit and an enduring protest song during the Vietnam War era. Their collaboration also yielded the popular "Smiling Faces Sometimes" for The Undisputed Truth, showcasing their versatility across different Motown artists and styles.
Recognition and Enduring Legacy in Music
In recognition of his immense lyrical contributions and indelible mark on American music, Barrett Strong was deservedly inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2004. His body of work continues to be celebrated for its emotional depth, sharp social commentary, and timeless appeal, solidifying his status as a foundational figure in soul music and a true Motown legend.
Frequently Asked Questions About Barrett Strong
- What was Barrett Strong's first hit for Motown?
- Barrett Strong achieved the distinction of being the first artist to record a hit for Motown Records with his dynamic 1959 single, "Money (That's What I Want)." This track became a foundational success for the then-nascent label and was later covered by numerous famous artists, including The Beatles.
- Who was Barrett Strong's primary songwriting collaborator at Motown?
- Barrett Strong is best known for his highly successful and influential songwriting partnership with legendary Motown producer Norman Whitfield. Together, they co-wrote numerous classic hits that helped define the "psychedelic soul" sound of the late 1960s and early 1970s.
- What famous songs did Barrett Strong write for The Temptations?
- Among his most notable lyrical contributions to The Temptations' discography, Barrett Strong wrote the lyrics for iconic songs such as the Grammy-winning "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone," as well as "Cloud Nine," and "Ball of Confusion (That's What the World Is Today)." These songs were crucial in the group's transition to a more socially conscious and psychedelic sound.
- Has Barrett Strong received any major awards for his songwriting?
- Yes, in recognition of his profound impact on popular music as a songwriter, Barrett Strong was deservingly inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2004, cementing his legacy among the greatest songwriters in American music history.