One Small Step for Man
One Giant Leap for Motown
Even as the world rolled on like a ball of confusion, it was a new morning for “The Sound of Young America” in 1969. That story is in full flower on The Complete Motown Singles, Vol. 9: 1969, a 6-CD set that’s the latest installment in the acclaimed series from Hip-oSelect.com
While the year marked the zenith of Motown’s ascendance in American culture – with Grammy® awards and television specials – 1969 also signaled the end of an era. As the decade closed in the freefall from the peak of the Woodstock festival to the horror of Altamont, so too was Motown in upheaval. While the year saw The Temps snag the company’s first GRAMMY® for 1968’s “Cloud Nine,” it also suffered the loss of foundation drummer Benny “Papa Zita” Benjamin. Diana Ross was planning to leave the Supremes, while the Jackson 5 injected new energy to the company.
Motown enjoyed such success that it could afford to move into gleaming downtown offices. The company also took a brave step forward into progressive rock with the launch of the Rare Earth label. It also made a deal with Hugh Masekela and Stewart Levine to distribute the eclectic Chisa label.
This incredible year is captured in 148 songs from 42 artists on Motown’s many labels across the six CDs of The Complete Motown Singles, Vol. 9: 1969. Highlights include Edwin Starr’s “Twenty-Five Miles,” “Someday We'll Be Together” by Diana Ross & The Supremes - that lineup's finale and the final No. 1 hit of the decade - Gladys Knight & The Pips’ “Friendship Train,” and The Jackson 5’s still-amazing “I Want You Back,” which is also featured as the replica 45 housed in the front cover.
Featured in the box set’s thick booklet is an introductory essay from former Motown executive and current artist manager Shelly Berger, an overview of the times by music historian Stu Hackel, detailed track notations, discographies and cross-references, and, of course, terrific photos from the Motown Archives.