1964, Motown crossed the Atlantic. After several years of growing US achievements for the small, independent record label from Detroit, the distinctive Motown Sound gained success abroad.
In June, Mary Wells’ single ‘My Guy’ became the company’s first chart success in the UK, reaching number five, which was followed in November 1964 by its first UK number one single, the Supremes’ ‘Baby Love.’ The invasion had begun, with promotional visits to London that year by Wells, the Supremes, Marvin Gaye, and Martha & the Vandellas, paving the way for a full-scale assault in 1965, when the first Motown concert tour came to Britain.
Proud Galleries, in collaboration with EMI, Bravado and Universal Music, are celebrating this extraordinary, culture-shaping movement in musical history with an exquisite photographic homage to the artists that brought soul and R&B to the mainstream. This unique collection chronicles the rise of Motown Records with rare and unseen photographs of Motown’s first UK visitors in 1964, and charts the length, breadth and international success of the label throughout the 60s and 70s.
These exclusive photographs show The Jackson 5, Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder at the peak of their careers. From bold street photographs of Michael Jackson and his brothers enjoying the sights of London to intimate shots of Marvin Gaye joyously embracing his son, this exhibition offers a glimpse at the personalities behind the music.
After fifty years and more than 180 No. 1 hit songs worldwide, founder and visionary Berry Gordy's legendary Motown Records has had a major influence on modern music. Proud Camden's exclusive exhibition is a visual tribute to Berry and the groundbreaking artists who helped define the sound of Motown.
The Proud Galleries’ exhibition signals the start of a year of initiatives under the theme Classic Motown that will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Motown's first international hits which have so inspired music fans and music makers around the world.
Dates 14th May – 13th July 2014
Monday to Sunday: 11am – 5pm Entry
The Horse Hospital Stables Market Chalk Farm Road London NW1 8AH
www.proud.co.uk
