Elemental Music

29/08/2024

Before the moonwalk and “Thriller,” Michael Jackson was already making waves as a part of the Jackson 5 and as a solo artist in the 1970s. This decade marked the early chapters of his journey from a child prodigy to a solo superstar, and it’s a story written in classic albums, unforgettable performances, and genre-defining hits.

The Jackson 5 burst onto the music scene in the late ‘60s and quickly became one of Motown’s most successful acts. With Michael as the charismatic lead singer, the group dominated the charts with four consecutive number-one hits: “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” and “I’ll Be There.” These songs were a transgressive blend of pop, soul, and R&B that appealed to both black and white audiences, making the Jackson 5 one of the first African American groups to achieve significant crossover success.

By the early 1970s, as the Jackson 5 continued to shine, Michael began to emerge as a solo artist. His early solo efforts with Motown included four albums: “Got to Be There” (1972), “Ben” (1972), “Music & Me” (1973), and “Forever, Michael” (1975), demonstrating his range as a performer and hinted at the mature, soulful voice that would later define his solo career.

In 1975, seeking greater creative control, the Jackson 5 made a bold move from Motown to Epic Records, rebranding themselves as The Jacksons. This transition allowed Michael to take on a more significant role in songwriting.

But it was in 1979, with the release of his groundbreaking album “Off the Wall,” that Michael Jackson truly stepped into the spotlight. Produced by Quincy Jones, this album not only sold over 20 million copies worldwide but also earned Michael his first Grammy Award, setting the tone for what was to come in the 1980s.

Rediscover the roots of a legend with Elemental Music.

28/08/2024

🪮🧑🏾‍🦱 Get It Together, released in 1973, is the Jackson Five’s 8th studio album, marking a significant departure from the Jackson Five’s earlier bubblegum soul sound.

Producer Hal Davis moved the group towards a funkier style influenced by Sly & The Family Stone and Norman Whitfield, who had engineered continued chart successes for The Temptations. Such success had eluded the Jacksons, and Joe Jackson was beginning to voice his discontent with Motown.

Incorporating synthesizers and a more dance-focused style that hinted at the incoming disco craze, “ It Together would be the first example of Michael’s emerging tenor voice which would establish him as one of the greatest vocalists of contemporary music.

Each track flows without silences between, inspired by Stevie Wonder’s “Music of My Mind,” while “Get It Together” lacks the melodic lustre of early hits like “I Want You Back,” the album still yielded standouts such as; “Hum Along and Dance, “Don’t Say Goodbye Again,” and “Dancing Machine” which later becoming a disco smash hit.

27/08/2024

Meet The Jackson 5—Michael, Tito, Jermaine, Jackie, and Marlon—brothers who turned the world upside down with their infectious energy and incredible talent. Before Michael Jackson became the King of Pop, he was the eleven-year-old powerhouse with a voice that could send chills down your spine on tracks like “Who’s Lovin’ You.”

With moves inspired by James Brown and a charisma all his own, Michael was already a star. But let’s not forget: The Jackson 5 as a whole shook up the music scene like no other. In the early ‘70s, they brought a new wave of energy to Motown Records, taking the world by storm with hits like “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” and “I’ll Be There.” 🎵

From humble beginnings in Gary, Indiana, to chart-topping success, these brothers became a symbol of youthful exuberance and pure musical magic. They weren’t just a “black bubblegum” act with catchy tunes and cool dance moves; they were trendsetters who redefined pop music for generations. Their electrifying performances and timeless music continue to inspire fans old and new.

Check out one of our newest releases, Jackson 5’s Get It Together, to relive the magic of The Jackson 5 and celebrate the group that brought us one of the greatest entertainers of all time!

22/08/2024

Smokey Robinson, the voice behind The Miracles, is one of the most important figures in 20th-century music. As a singer, songwriter, and producer, he shaped the Motown sound that defined an era. From the heartfelt lyrics of “The Tracks of My Tears” to the infectious groove of “Shop Around,” Smokey’s music captured the joy and pain of love like no other.

Bob Dylan called him “America’s greatest living poet,” and it’s easy to see why. Smokey’s songs are timeless, blending playful melodies with deep emotion. Whether with The Miracles or as a solo artist, he left an indelible mark on soul and R&B.

Want to feel the magic of Motown? Dive into Elemental Music’s catalog and explore all of the soulful sounds of our Smokey Robinson’s reissues.

21/08/2024

The Miracles: Defining the Motown sound

The Miracles, led by the legendary Smokey Robinson, were a cornerstone of the Motown sound that dominated the 1960s. With members like Warren “Pete” Moore, Bobby Rogers, Ronnie White, and Claudette Rogers, they brought the perfect blend of joy and heartache to their music, capturing the essence of love in every note. Robinson, once called “America’s greatest living poet” by Bob Dylan, crafted lyrics that danced between playful and passionate, making the Miracles a vital part of music history.

Formed in the doo-wop era, the group initially struggled to find their footing. But with the guidance of Berry Gordy, who would go on to create Motown Records, the Miracles found their voice. Hits like “Shop Around,” “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” and “The Tracks of My Tears” became anthems of the era, showcasing their unmatched ability to turn life’s highs and lows into unforgettable melodies.

The group’s impact extended beyond their own hits. Smokey Robinson wrote iconic songs for other Motown legends, including “My Girl” for the Temptations and “My Guy” for Mary Wells. Even after Robinson left the group in 1972, the Miracles continued to make their mark with tracks like “Love Machine (Part 1),” proving their staying power in the ever-changing music scene.

Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012, the Miracles’ legacy is undeniable. They weren’t just a group—they were a movement, a sound, and a symbol of the Motown magic that continues to influence artists today.

20/08/2024

Step back into the sound of 1967 with the magic of Smokey Robinson & The Miracles.

Revisit Make It Happen, the classic album that gave us the chart-topping classic “The Tears of a Clown” and unforgettable hits like “The Love I Saw in You Was Just a Mirage” and “More Love.”

✨ Available since August 16th, 2024 – Don’t miss out on this Limited Edition 140-gram vinyl. It’s a gem from Motown’s Tamla Records, hailed as “the most underrated Miracles LP of the ‘60s” by AllMusic. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the groove, this reissue is a must-have for any collection.

Get ready to feel the rhythm, embrace the nostalgia, and let the smooth vocals of Smokey Robinson take you back in time. Buy your copy today on our website 🛒

15/08/2024

In the annals of American music history, few groups have left as indelible a mark as The Supremes. With the release of their eighth studio album, I Hear a Symphony, in 1966, the group once again showcased their ability to innovate and transcend musical boundaries. Released on the Motown label, this album marked a pivotal moment in The Supremes’ career, where they sought to bridge the divide between traditional pop music, the signature Motown sound, and the growing soul genre.

The album’s title track, “I Hear a Symphony,” soared to the top of the charts, becoming the group’s sixth number-one single. This was followed by another hit, “My World Is Empty Without You,” which secured a spot in the Top Ten. The success of these singles contributed to the album’s impressive performance on the Billboard 200 chart, where it peaked at number 8 and maintained its presence for a remarkable 55 weeks.

Critics have lauded I Hear a Symphony for its musical depth and versatility. Bruce Eder of AllMusic awarded the album a 4½-star rating, highlighting its “great soul numbers” and praising “He’s All I Got” as one of the greatest album tracks The Supremes ever recorded. This acclaim reflects the album’s significance as a work that encapsulates the essence of the 1960s music scene.

As we revisit I Hear a Symphony, we are reminded of the group’s harmonious blend of styles and their contribution to the evolution of modern music. This album stands as a milestone in their illustrious career.

14/08/2024

Iconic Diva, Enduring Legend

Diana Ross has shaped the sound and image of Motown Records and beyond. With her incredible talents spanning music, film, and television, Ross has inspired millions across the globe. Her story begins in Detroit, Michigan, where she was born on March 26, 1944.

The journey to stardom started when Diana joined the Primettes with Mary Wilson, Florence Ballard, and Barbara Martin. Renamed the Supremes, the group signed to Motown Records in 1961 and soared to fame, becoming the most successful female vocal group of all time with twelve No. 1 records from 1964 to 1970. x Diana embarked on a solo career in 1970 that catapulted her to new heights, with Motown proclaiming her as part of the elite “rarified constellation of first-name acceptance, alongside Barbra, Billie, Ella, and Judy.”

Ross’s talents extended to the silver screen, where she earned an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Billie Holiday in the 1972 film “Lady Sings the Blues.” She continued to captivate audiences with her role in “Mahogany,” a film she described as “all about fashion.”
Her impact on television is equally impressive, with notable appearances in “An Evening with Diana Ross” and the 1981 special “diana,” featuring guests like Michael Jackson and Larry Hagman.

Ross’s album “Lady Sings the Blues” reached No. 1 in 1973, spending over a year on the charts. Her collaboration with Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards on the “diana” album solidified her status as a music icon, with hits that remain timeless. Ross was a recipient of France’s prestigious Order of Arts and Letters in 1993, and her influence on popular culture is undeniable.

Her life and work continue to inspire, proving that there truly is no mountain high enough for Diana Ross.

13/08/2024

The Supremes, one of Motown’s crown jewels, emerged from Detroit’s Brewster-Douglass Housing Project to become a musical powerhouse, achieving a staggering 12 US No.1 hits between 1964 and 1969, including an unprecedented five consecutive chart-toppers. Their journey, set against the backdrop of the meteoric rise of Motown Records and the tumultuous Civil Rights Movement, was not just a story of musical triumph but also a profound narrative of cultural and social transformation.

Berry Gordy’s vision of a “hit factory” at Motown Records aimed to convert raw talent into polished superstars. Diana Ross, Mary Wilson, and Florence Ballard embodied this vision, transitioning from ‘The Primettes’ to ‘The Supremes,’ a group that captivated audiences across racial divides. The trio’s appeal lay in their ability to cross over and resonate with both Black and white audiences, at a time when America was deeply segregated.

The Supremes’ journey paralleled the broader Civil Rights Movement, reflecting the changing landscape of America. Their music evolved, echoing the sentiments of a nation grappling with social injustice and inequality. Hits like “Love Child,” which topped the charts in 1968, showcased their willingness to tackle social issues head-on, aligning with Motown’s gradual shift towards message-oriented music.

Styling and image were integral to The Supremes’ success. Motown’s ‘Artist Development’ program, led by Maxine Powell, aimed to polish the group’s public persona, ensuring their appeal transcended racial boundaries. Legendary designers like Bob Mackie crafted their iconic, glamorous costumes, which became synonymous with the Motown brand. These meticulously styled outfits, ranging from early simple dresses to lavish sequined gowns, were displayed at the V&A exhibition “The Story of the Supremes” in 2008.

Their influence on popular music and culture is undeniable, a testament to their artistry, resilience, and the power of music as a catalyst for change.

08/08/2024

On April 15, 1964, Motown released Together, the first and only studio album by the dynamic duo of Marvin Gaye and Mary Wells. At the time, Mary Wells was already a shining star, fresh off her number-one pop hit “My Guy.” The album was designed to pair Gaye, then still on the rise, with an established talent in hopes of boosting his exposure.

Together features a collection of standards and show tunes, showcasing the harmonious blend of Gaye’s soulful voice with Wells’ seasoned vocals. The album marked a significant milestone in Gaye’s career, becoming his first charted album and peaking at number 42 on the Billboard Pop Albums chart. It also produced two top 20 singles: “Once Upon a Time” and “What’s the Matter with You Baby.”

However, the duo’s collaboration was short-lived. Shortly after the album’s release, Wells, influenced by bad advice from her former husband and manager, left Motown upon turning twenty-one. This departure led Motown to seek a new duet partner for Gaye, first pairing him with Kim Weston for the album Take Two, and eventually leading to his legendary partnership with Tammi Terrell.

While Together stands as a unique entry in Gaye’s discography, it paved the way for the future successes that would cement his status as a Motown legend.

On July 12th, as part of our Motown series, we reissued Marvin Gaye & Mary Wells’ duo album “Together” in mono. We’re proud to be the first to reissue the album in mono and give you the chance to hear how it sounded back in 1964!

You can getyour copy today on our website - don’t miss the chance! 💿🌐

06/08/2024

COMING OUT SOON: More Hits by The Supremes 💘

On August 16th, 2024, the sixth studio album by Motown group The Supremes, “More Hits by The Supremes,” will be available as a 140-gram limited edition vinyl.

Originally released in 1965, this album features two number-one hits: “Stop! In the Name of Love” and “Back in My Arms Again,” along with the Top-20 single “Nothing but Heartaches.” The album achieved notable success, peaking at number six on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs album chart and holding its position for an impressive 37 weeks. It also reached number two on Billboard’s R&B album chart.

In addition to the music, the album cover holds a special significance, as it features the autographs of each member. The album received a ****½ rating on AllMusic, with Bruce Eder praising its original content and worth, stating: “Its title might lead one to think this was a compilation, but it wasn’t. Rather, the title is merely a valid presumption of its worth. It was also the original group’s third highest charting album of their five years on Motown.”

Exclusively available for the U.S. market, fans can check availability at their local record stores or through online retailers. Mark your calendars!

05/08/2024

From their humble beginnings in Detroit to international superstardom, The Temptations’ journey is a story of courage, triumph, and a profound impact on music history. Renowned as “the greatest black vocal group of the Modern Era,” their legacy is celebrated worldwide. Ranked #1 on Billboard’s Greatest R&B/Hip-Hop Artists of All Time, their Anthology album has graced Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list multiple times.

In the 1960s, amid America’s turbulent civil rights era, The Temptations captivated audiences with timeless hits like “My Girl” and “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” uniting a nation with their soulful harmonies and dance moves. Their “Classic Five” lineup became a symbol of excellence and resilience, paving the way for countless artists to follow.

As the 70s dawned, The Temptations evolved with the times, introducing a new sound characterized by social consciousness and psychedelic soul. The group continued to deliver chart-topping hits like “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” which won three Grammy Awards, and “Just My Imagination,” a classic. This era marked a period of critical acclaim and commercial success, with albums like Solid Rock and Masterpiece showcasing their versatility and depth.

As they celebrate their 60th anniversary, The Temptations continue to inspire, reminding us of the power of music to transcend boundaries and uplift the human spirit.

🎶 “Cloud Nine,” “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” “Shakey Ground,” and countless other classics... The Temptations’ legacy lives on.

01/08/2024

This July, we released ‘The Temptations – Cloud Nine’ as part of our Motown series. From early 1964 to mid-1968, the Temptations delivered an impressive 13 Top 20 pop hits, solidifying David Ruffin, Eddie Kendricks, Paul Williams, Otis Williams, and Melvin Franklin as Motown’s premier act.

The summer of 1968 saw the departure of lead singer David Ruffin. His successor, Dennis Edwards, joined the group, necessitating a fresh start with new music. The Temptations collaborated with producer Norman Whitfield to reshape their sound with Edwards in the mix.

The first single from the album, also titled “Cloud Nine,” quickly climbed the charts, peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. The album’s follow-up single, “Runaway Child, Running Wild,” further showcased the Temptations’ evolving psychedelic soul sound. However, tracks such as “Hey Girl” and “Don’t Let Him Take Your Love From Me” strongly showcase the group’s classic virtues: arresting harmonies, aural depth, and unvarnished feeling.

Moreover, both songs highlight Paul Williams, the group’s first lead singer, whose compelling baritone seldom received— as some fans of the Temptations have argued—sufficient recognition. Notably, “Cloud Nine” earned Motown its first Grammy win for Best Performance by an R&B Duo or Group in 1968, underscoring the Temptations’ enduring legacy in the Motown canon.

30/07/2024

On July 12th, as part of our Motown series, we reissued Marvin Gaye & Mary Wells’ duo album “Together” in mono. We’re proud to be the first to reissue the album in mono and give you the chance to hear how it sounded back in 1964!

The first and only album from Marvin Gaye and Mary Wells, “Together,” was Gaye’s first charted work with two top 20 singles. Motown paired Gaye with the already established Wells, fresh off her Smokey Robinson penned hit “My Guy,” to boost his profile.

Shortly after, Wells left Motown, achieving brief resurgences with “Dear Lover” in 1966 and the disco single “Gigolo” in 1981, but faced financial and health issues until her untimely death in 1992. Gaye, meanwhile, rose to prominence with subsequent duo albums, becoming Motown’s leading male vocalist and achieving legendary status, with an equally tragic end…

29/07/2024

I HEAR A SYMPHONY 🎙️🎵

Elemental Music Records proudly presents a classic from one of the most iconic girl groups in American music history - The Supremes.

Released in 1966 under the Motown label,
I Hear a Symphony marks The Supremes’ eighth studio album. This record represents a pivotal moment in the group’s career, expertly blending traditional pop, the distinctive Motown sound, and soul music.

The album features the chart-topping title track, “I Hear a Symphony,” which became the group’s sixth number-one single. Additionally, it includes the Top Ten hit “My World Is Empty Without You.” The LP achieved commercial success, peaking at number 8 on the Billboard 200 and staying on the chart for an impressive 55 weeks.

Critically acclaimed, I Hear a Symphony received a ****½ rating from All Music. Reviewer Bruce Eder highlighted the album’s depth, praising tracks like “He’s All I Got” as among the finest the group ever recorded. This release is a must-have for fans of classic soul and Motown music, offering a rich listening experience that continues to resonate across generations.

24/07/2024

The Temptations’ Psychedelic Shack 🎡

LIMITED EDITION 180-GRAM VIRGIN VINYL

Released in 1970, Psychedelic Shack marks the twelfth studio album by The Temptations for the Gordy (Motown) label. Composed by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, and produced by Whitfield, this album signifies a daring shift from the traditional “Motown Sound” into the realm of psychedelia.

The album features the hit title track, which soared to #7 on the US Billboard Hot 100, #4 on Cash Box, and #2 on the US R&B charts. Another notable track is the group’s original version of “War,” later made famous by Edwin Starr. psychedelic shack is one of the last albums recorded by the third incarnation of The Temptations—Dennis Edwards, Paul Williams, Eddie Kendricks, Melvin Franklin, and Otis Williams—before internal struggles led to the group’s fragmentation.

During the recording, Paul Williams, hindered by sickle-cell disease and heavy alcoholism, was often replaced by Richard Street, lead singer of The Monitors and an old friend of Otis Williams. The album also highlights the group’s growing frustration with Motown’s restrictive creative control, contributing to Eddie Kendricks’ departure in early 1971.

Critically acclaimed, Psychedelic Shack received a four out of five stars rating from All Music reviewer Amy Hanson, who praised it as “an absolutely outstanding album - one which has stood the test of time, sounding as fresh as it did upon initial release.”

This limited edition 180-gram virgin vinyl pressing is a must-have for fans and collectors, capturing a transformative moment in the history of The Temptations and Motown.

23/07/2024

Pharoah Sanders’ Thembi: a landmark in spiritual jazz

💿 LIMITED EDITION 180-GRAM VIRGIN VINYL

Released in 1971, Pharoah Sanders’ seventh album, Thembi, stands as a pivotal work in the saxophonist’s illustrious career. Known for his spiritual and expansive soundscapes, Sanders took a bold new direction with this release. Unlike his previous works characterized by extended, mantra-like grooves, Thembi showcases a diverse array of relatively concise compositions, offering a fresh and engaging listening experience.

Recorded with two different ensembles, Thembi features an impressive lineup, including violinist Michael White, bassist Cecil McBee, and percussionists Chief Bey, Majid Shabbaz, and Nat Bettis. This album also marks the final collaboration between Sanders and the renowned pianist and composer Lonnie Liston Smith, who began his foray into electric keyboards on this record.

Acclaimed by critics, Thembi received a four out of five stars rating from A//Music reviewer Steve Huey. This limited edition 180-gram virgin vinyl pressing is a must-have for jazz aficionados and collectors alike, capturing a unique moment in Sanders’ prime period. Don’t miss the opportunity to own this exceptional piece of jazz history.

22/07/2024

🎹 Back from our catalogue, for the first time ever on vinyl: Bill Charlap’s acclaimed trio album

⚪️ Limited gatefold edition in HQ 180-gram audiophile vinyl

Bill Charlap, the celebrated New York City-born pianist known for his work with Blue Note and Venus labels, has finally seen one of his most acclaimed trio albums, All Through the Night, released on vinyl for the first time. This limited gatefold edition, pressed in high-quality 180-gram audiophile vinyl, promises an unparalleled listening experience for jazz aficionados.

Charlap, whose collaboration with Tony Bennett on the 2016 album The Silver Lining: The Songs of Jerome Kern won the Grammy Award for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album, continues to captivate audiences with his exquisite touch and profound musicality. All Through the Night, featuring the dynamic Peter and Kenny Washington, has been highly praised in the jazz community. Renowned jazz critic Scott Yanow awarded the album four out of five stars on AllMusic, highlighting it as “a superior modern mainstream set” and “an enjoyable outing.”

Don’t miss your chance to own this essential piece of jazz history. Secure your copy of Bill Charlap’s All Through the Night on vinyl now, and immerse yourself in the refined artistry of one of jazz’s finest trios.

18/07/2024

Straight outta high school and into music history, Mary Wells was one of the trailblazers to sign with Motown in 1960. Inspired by Detroit legends like Jackie Wilson and the Miracles, Mary chased her dream with unshakable determination. Spotting Berry Gordy at the 20 Grand Club, she belted out the first verse of “Bye Bye Baby” on the spot, landing her a spot in the Motown family.

Her debut single “Bye Bye Baby” set the stage for an incredible career, but it was her 1964 hit “My Guy” that truly made waves. Topping the Billboard charts and earning gold, this iconic track broke the Beatles’ chart dominance and soared to #1 in the US and #5 in the UK.

Teaming up with Marvin Gaye for the “Together” album, headlining Motown’s Motortown R***e, and touring with the Beatles—Mary’s stardom knew no bounds. Her influence paved the way for future legends like the Supremes.

Join us in celebrating Mary Wells, the voice that helped shape Motown’s legacy.

17/07/2024

🎉 GIVEAWAY ALERT! 🎉

Ready to add a jazz masterpiece to your collection? We’re giving away three copies of our recently reissued gem, Bill Evans - Montreux II!

Here’s how to enter:

1. Follow on Instagram
2. Tag three friends in the comments below
3. Give this post a like ❤️

About the record:

Recorded at the 1970 Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland and produced by the brilliant Helen Keane, this album is a treasure for all jazz lovers.

Following the Grammy Award-winning “Bill Evans at the Montreux Jazz Festival” (1968), Montreux II showcases Evans at his peak, delivering a spellbinding performance alongside Eddie Gomez on bass and Marty Morell on drums. According to All Music’s Ken Dryden, this concert finds “the pianist in peak form” presenting “a terrific live performance.”

Don’t miss your chance to own this piece of jazz history!

We will announce the three winners at the end of the month. Good luck 🍀

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