Watch Motown 60: A Grammy Celebration

Motown 60: A Grammy Celebration, released in 2019, is a musical extravaganza featuring performances by some of the greatest contemporary artists singing classic Motown songs. The show was a tribute to the legendary label Motown Records which was founded by Berry Gordy Jr. in Detroit, Michigan back in 1959. It was a platform for African-American artists and promised them the opportunity to create music and perform on equal footing with their white counterparts.

The show was hosted by Smokey Robinson, the celebrated R&B singer and songwriter, and was a collaboration between the Recording Academy, Motown Records and CBS. The event was held in Los Angeles earlier in 2019 and was attended by a number of famous musicians and performers. The show was broadcast on CBS on 21st April 2019 and was a hit with audiences and critics alike.

The special featured a stellar line-up of performers including R&B sensations Jennifer Lopez, Tori Kelly, John Legend, Ne-Yo, and Fantasia as well as popular artists like Meghan Trainor, Heather Headley, Boyz II Men, and Stevie Wonder. The show was also graced by the presence of some legendary Motown artists including Diana Ross, Martha Reeves and The Temptations.

The show began with a rousing rendition of the classic Motown hit "Get Ready" by Smokey Robinson and the current artists on stage. The audience was transported back in time to the classic era of Motown as they watched Jennifer Lopez and Smokey Robinson perform "My Girl." The high energy performance featured a mix of Motown classics as well as contemporary hits that have been influenced by the label.

Tori Kelly, one of the most popular contemporary R&B artists, gave a stunning performance of Michael Jackson's "I Want You Back." The crowd was taken by surprise as Kelly's soulful and powerful voice filled the room. The highlight of the show, however, was the performance of "Do You Love Me" by the original Motown group The Temptations who had everyone on their feet with applause.

Whoopi Goldberg, the iconic actress, TV host and comedian, made a special appearance and performed one of the most well-known Motown songs, "My Guy", originally sung by Mary Wells. She brought the house down with her hilarious commentary and impressive vocal range.

Stevie Wonder, the legendary musician, songwriter and record producer, closed the show with a heartwarming performance of "Signed, Sealed, Delivered." His performance was a fitting tribute to the legacy of Motown Records and an ode to the music that influenced and shaped the artists of today.

The show was a powerful tribute to the legacy of Motown and its artists. The performances showcased the diversity and timelessness of the music that came out of the label. The show also highlighted the significance of the label in the struggle for civil rights and equality. It reminded us of the power of music to bring people together and transcend differences.

In conclusion, Motown 60: A Grammy Celebration was a heartwarming and powerful event that paid tribute to one of the most important music labels of all time. The performances were electrifying and the show was a reminder of the impact that Motown had on music and society. The show left audiences with a sense of nostalgia, but also of hope, that the legacy of Motown will continue to inspire and influence future generations.