Friday, September 2, 2016

The History of Motown: The Writer / Producers Part 5 - Ashford & Simpson

Caffe` Latte` presents…
THE 200
MOST ESSENTIAL
MOTOWN
 SONGS
THE MOTOWN SOUND:
http://vignette2.wikia.nocookie.net/myat40/images/5/5a/Ashford_%26_Simpson_Solid_cover.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20140503134525 
THE WRITER/PRODUCERS
 Pt. 5
Motown Records was a constant presence on the pop chart throughout the 1960s and continued beyond that golden era with a roster that boasted an abundance of talent. Along with its flagship acts, the label attracted creative artists that played a key role in shaping the 'Motown Sound'. The company was served well by a capable pool of songwriters and producers. Some were key architects of Motown's success and crossover appeal. 
ASHFORD AND SIMPSON
  https://dagnyzenovia.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/ashford_and_simpson_1.jpg
Image result for diana ross ain't no mountain high enoughMarvinunited.jpgAlong with chart success in their own right, couple Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson composed several enduring songs for Motown. Ashford & Simpson wrote / produced hits for the likes of Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, The Four Tops, The Marvelettes, Gladys Knight & The Pips, Martha & The Vandellas and The Miracles. 
Among their most famous songs for Motown are: "Ain't No Mountain High Enough", "Destination: Anywhere", "You're All I Need To Get By", "The Boss", "Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing", "Reach Out And Touch (Somebody's Hand)", "Your Precious Love", "Didn't You Know You'd Have To Cry Sometime" and "Surrender".
The couple married in 1974. As a recording duo, their biggest hit was "Solid" which reached #12 in 1984. Ashford & Simpson  later wrote for non- Motown acts such as Chaka Khan. "I'm Every Woman" was a hit later covered by Whitney Houston.
 
Ashford died in 2011. The couple's musical creations will be cherished for years to come.
 https://dagnyzenovia.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/ashford_and_simpson-stay_free_3.jpg
Have a listen to the Introduction To Motown playlist on spotify. It includes many of the greats from the legendary record label, including: Diana Ross, The Jackson 5, The Marvelettes, The Four Tops, Lionel Richie, Martha & The Vandellas, Mary Wells and The Miracles.
spotify:user:alanrosscaffelatte

No comments:

Post a Comment