Barrett Strong, one of the most legendary figures in Motown history, has passed away at 81. Strong co-wrote some of the biggest hits in Motown history, including “I Heard it Through the Grapevine,” and his influence on the sound of Motown cannot be overstated. The Motown Museum announced his death on Twitter Sunday, and tributes have been pouring in from all corners of the music world – rest in peace, Barrett Strong – you will be missed.
Motown Music lost a true legend with the passing of Barrett Strong. As one of the most influential figures in the famed Motown sound, Strong was an important part of crafting some of the immortal songs that brought us classic hits like “I Heard it Through the Grapevine” and many more. His artistic contribution to the pop music world will always be remembered and appreciated by fans, artists, and Motown Music lovers all over the world.
Barrett Strong played an incredibly influential role in Motown history, helping to create some of the label’s most iconic hits. His co-written song “I Heard it Through the Grapevine,” released as a single in 1968, still resonates with music fans today and continues to be widely covered by other musicians.
With his talents and contributions, Strong helped propel Motown to become one of the top-selling record labels of its time. His impact on the music industry will remain strong for years to come. He certainly was one of the greatest musicians that came from Motown in Detroit, Michigan.
The name Barrett Strong is one that will forever be remembered in the hallowed halls of Motown music. He was an absolute pioneer of the genre, renowned for co-writing some of the biggest songs it ever produced. His influence was felt across Motown’s entire history – from its early days to its greatest successes, and his creative and powerful lyrics shaped generations of music listeners; crucially, he paved the way for other legendary figures in Motown’s canon. Although we are all saddened by his passing at eighty-one years old, we shall remember him as a true pioneer of Motown music who will live on in our hearts and our memories.
As we commemorate the passing of Barrett Strong, one of the most influential figures in Motown history, it is difficult to express the magnitude of his contributions. Beyond writing classic hits like “I Heard it Through The Grapevine,” he also helped shape the entire Motown sound itself with prominent basslines and acclaimed collaborations throughout his career. Though he has left us too soon, his music will outlive him forever – leaving behind a powerful legacy in mid-century American rhythm and blues culture.
Although Barrett Strong has passed away, his legendary music will live on forever. I Heard It Through the Grapevine is one of those Motown classics that is still as relevant today as it was when it was first released in the 1960s.