Barrett Strong

About Barrett Strong

"A legendary songwriter with Motown Records, Barrett Strong has reached the absolute peaks of artistic and commercial success, penning some of America's most well-loved soul anthems. Regardless of his illustrious musical past, Strong remains committed to the future — and cultivating the legacy of great music in Detroit. Now taking on the roles of artistic mentor, producer and talent scout, he is the founder of Blarritt Records and the promoter of The Boomtown Sound. Utilizing his past achievements for a diverse group of young and upcoming artists, Strong is not only a noted figure in musical history, he is a role model and unifier of Detroit's musical and cultural communities.

Writing songs since a very young age, Strong was introduced to Berry Gordy by family friend Jackie Wilson and began his work in the music business at the tender age of fifteen. His first big hit with the Motown label was 'Money,' which he sang himself. Strong then teamed up with another Motown legend, Norman Whitfield, and the two became a dynamic songwriting and production duo that helped tailor songs to fit the unique talents of Motown greats Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, Gladys Knight & The Pips, Jerry Butler, The Dells, Chubby Checker, and many more. The timeless magic of Barrett & Whitfield is still heard today in songs such as 'Papa Was A Rolling Stone,' 'I Heard It Through The Grapevine,' 'Just My Imagination' and 'Smiling Faces' to name a few of their smash hits. Then and now — Barrett Strong continues to move and inspire the people of Detroit and the world with the power of musical expression." from the official Barrett Strong Web site.