The Johnnie Mae Matthews Story
Introduction

When Johnnie Mae Matthews succumbed to cancer in January  2002, one of the last links to Detroit's R n' B roots was sadly lost. Known as the "Godmother of Detroit Soul," or as George Clinton affectionately called her, "Mother Funker," she was a pioneer of Soul music in the Motor City.

After founding her own recording company in the late '50s she went on to discover, manage and produce numerous artists, and cut around thirty 45s that span rock n' roll, blues, soul and funk.

Her death went unreported in the local newspapers and it's hoped that this tribute will direct an overdue spotlight on a remarkable lady who lived in the darkest of Motown's shadows.

Notes thanks to Graham Finch
 

DESIGN AND GRAPHICS BY LOWELL BOILEAU