Motown music is a musical genre that blends the sounds of rhythm and blues (R&B)and pop music styles. It is played with a variety of musical instruments, from electric to acoustic. Though Motown uses a variety of instruments, some of the most common sounds come from percussion instruments and distinctive vocals.

Though the unique sound that is Motown was influenced by R&B and pop, Motown vocals closely rival the vocals that are found in gospel music. Such strong vocals and the distinct sound of the blended sound of the tambourine, drums and bass guitar, make Motown a well-known style and music.

The word Motown was created to pay credit to the place of origin of the musical style. Detroit, which is also known as the motor city, was the first official home of the Motown sound. The musical form that erupted in Michigan quickly gave way to a record company in 1960.

Berry Gordy, Jr. launched the Motown record label in 1960 in Detroit, Michigan. It was the first ever record company to be owned and operated by an African-American and to primarily feature African-American musicians.

From 1960 and on, the Motown sound and the Motown record label artists both soared to popularity around the country. In fact, the Motown record company became the largest and most successful independent record company in the United States by the middle of the 1960s.

Besides enjoy quick and well deserved success, Motown was the first genre to have all female groups, instead of just led female artists. Female groups were not the only musicians in Motown. Many well known bands and artists started on the Motown label. These artists included: The Supremes, The Miracles, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, The Four Tops and Diana Ross.

Berry Gordy Jr. held on to the Motown record label until 1988, when she sold the company to the Music Corporation of America. The Motown record label no longer calls Detroit, the Motor City, home. Along with its parent company, MCA, it is now headquartered in Los Angeles, California.