Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong

[bobkayli]

Much is written [[justifiably) about Norman Whitfield's genius but to what extent was he aided by the Motown staff? His late 60s/early 70s Motown work is mostly credited to both he and Barrett Strong. How did this work? i understood they were paired because Norman wasn't a great songwriter at the time. So was Barrett the lyricist?
Since Norman also produced most of the songs unaided by Barrett, it suggests Barrett's role was limited yet still enough to earn writing credits.
Any views on this would be interesting.

[nativeNY63]

Much is written [[justifiably) about Norman Whitfield's genius but to what extent was he aided by the Motown staff? His late 60s/early 70s Motown work is mostly credited to both he and Barrett Strong. How did this work? i understood they were paired because Norman wasn't a great songwriter at the time. So was Barrett the lyricist?
Since Norman also produced most of the songs unaided by Barrett, it suggests Barrett's role was limited yet still enough to earn writing credits.
Any views on this would be interesting.

Have you read his own words in his autobio., "Motown's A & R Man?" Or something to that effect.