The Best of Motorcity [[Vols. 1-20)

[Philles/Motown Gary]

When it was suggested that I start a MOTORCITY RECORDS thread, I jumped at the chance! I hope you'll enjoy it as much as I'm enjoying compiling it!

I'm starting with the Various Artists "Best Of Motorcity" [[Vols. 1-20) series which were released as compilations between 1994 and 1997.

II need to expres a HUGE thanks to Kenny [[Kenneth) for uploading this project for me.
[/B]
Best Regards,
PHILLES/MOTOWN GARY


-------------------------------

A HISTORY OF IAN LEVINE'S MOTORCITY RECORDS PROJECT [[courtesy of WIKI). [[Open the link and select History.)

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motorcity_Records



MOTORCITY RECORDS ALBUM DISCOGRAPHY [[courtesy of WIKI)

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motorcity_Records_albums_discography



MOTORCITY RECORDS 12" SINGLE DISCOGRAPHY [[courtesy of WIKI).

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motorcity_Records_singles_discography

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20316

20317

20315

MOTORCITY HTCD 7701
V.A. - "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 1)"[[Compilation 1994)


FRANCES NERO
1) "Footsteps Following Me"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/yygZTksT2CE

THE CONTOURS
2) "Head Over Heels"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/j_Zn6O_1Z6Y

MARY WELLS
3) "Walk The City Streets"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos)
https://youtu.be/fCy0Yy9f7pM

PAT LEWIS
4) "In The Name Of Love"
[[S. Redd - R. Williams)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/APILJP45T_I

KAREN PREE
5) "Girl With A Broken Heart"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Karen Pree
https://youtu.be/P8118Z9stfA

MARV JOHNSON
6) "Better Love Next Time"
[[I. Levine - M. Johnson)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/t3Jb8jwLJGc

THE MIRACLES
7) "Fun Time"
[[A. Cleveland - D. Cleveland - C. Cotton - D. Finley)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/TjTeyUIVmDg

EDWIN STARR
8) "In The Nick Of Time"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/iVsFThIToPM

VERMETTYA ROYSTER
9) "Back Where I Belong"
[[I. Levine - L. John)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/YvwjYdJhvjU

BILLY PRESTON
10) "You Are The Rhythm In My Life"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Marilyn McLeod
https://youtu.be/nCVthzjab0o [[https://youtu.be/nCVthzjab0o)

THREE OUNCES OF LOVE
11) "Electricity"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/1crKxUkOrQ0

BILLY GRIFFIN
12) "Technicolour"
[Producer: Ian Levine & B. Griffin
https://youtu.be/0aaOrN34eGY

JEAN, SCHERRIE & LYNDA [[FLOS) WITH THE ORIGINALS
13) "Back By Popular Demand"
[[F. Gorman & J. Bradford)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/Py_95g0B7Bw

RONNIE McNEIR
14) "Ten Times A Day"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Ronnie McNeir
https://youtu.be/yk2qCSf15Jw

P.J. [[Patti Jerome)
15) "Down For The Third Time"
[[I. Levine - P. Jerome - P. Frank - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/E-S6TRvBilE

LINDA GRINER
16) "Bitter End"
[[I. Levine - L. Roman)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/2JpQIiJZ-rE

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20318

20319

20320

MOTORCITY HTCD 7702
V.A. - "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 2)"[[Compilation 1994)


CHUCK JACKSON
1) "All Over The World"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/V6cLOzG0IEI

KIM WESTON
2) "A Case Of Too Much Lovemaking"
[[T. Brock)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/VviCJCzjhVU [[https://youtu.be/VviCJCzjhVU)

FANTASTIC FOUR
3) "Back In Circulation"
[[I. Levine- J. Epps)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/_ipMf9ue7l8

SISTERS LOVE
4) "Courage"
[Producer: Ian Levine)
https://youtu.be/aTK8n-Jhq5o

IVY JO HUNTER
5) "Running Through My Fingers"
[[I. Levine - Ivy Jo Hunter)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/toV8fiYASi0

JAKE JACAS
6) "Forever In The Groove"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Billy Griffin
https://youtu.be/vKaHSRAb_MM

THE VELVELETTES
7) "It Keeps Reminding Me [[Of Happy Memories)"
[[!. Levine - I.J. Hunter - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/WHK8frygQfg [[https://youtu.be/WHK8frygQfg)

SAUNDRA EDWARDS
8) "Tow-Away Zone"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Billy Griffin
https://youtu.be/lZHZCtf4ev0

JEAN, SCHERRIE & LYNDA [[FLOS)
9) "Hit And Miss"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/p8rsvGgWEWM [[https://youtu.be/p8rsvGgWEWM)

BARBARA RANDOLPH
10) "Chasing The Hurt Away"
[[I. Levine - J. Jacas)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/VHvQqbKMNbo

BILLY PRESTON & SYREETA
11) "Watching The Hands Of Time"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Syreeta Wright
https://youtu.be/QlGrxy9O-Us

FRANKIE GAYE
12) "My Brother"
[Producer: Ian Levine & R. McNeir)
https://youtu.be/Dbt-Yhk6BwA

JOHNNY BRISTOL
13) "Man Up In The Sky"
[[Strong - Always)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos)
https://youtu.be/45aAfy_ag-4

BARBARA McNAIR
14) "Talking In My Sleep"
[[I. Levine - S. Wright - T. Mathis - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/wyKGt83Nyx0

THE ELGINS
15) "Look Up To The Sky"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Buford Glanton
https://youtu.be/DyfZNU7X78M

THE MONITORS
16) "Standing Still"
[[I. Levine - S. Moy - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/OLbkNaDCbY0

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20321

20322

20323

MOTORCITY HTCD 7703
V.A. - "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 3)"[[Compilation 1994)


DAVID RUFFIN
1) "Hurt The One You Love"
[[R. McNeir - R. Benson - M. Crump)
Producer: Ian Levine & Ronnie McNeir
https://youtu.be/UDhXGEqpFJU

FREDA PAYNE
2) "Only Minutes Away"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Billy Griffin
https://youtu.be/xeeKnsZUbMc

THE ANDANTES
3) "All Around The Motor City"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/HSl4diJP1wA

BILLY ECKSTINE
4) "Got The Big City Blues"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/gcRyyH2tNbw

LYNDA LAURENCE
5) "The Man In My Life"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/yTalD_iu6b4

THE MARVELETTES
6) "Getting Into Motion"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/u0z6l0Lvzv8

CHRIS CLARK
7) "From Head To Toe"
[[W. Robinson)
Producer: Ian Levine & Gianatos
[Video Unavailable]

J.J. BARNES
8) "On Top Of The World"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/dpSFIgvbqjI

CAROLYN CRAWFORD
9) "Which Way Do I Turn"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/8ic2kcZIyFc

FIFTH DIMENSION
10) "More Love"
[[W. Robinson)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/8ic2kcZIyFc

MARTHA REEVES & THE VANDELLAS
11) "Step Into My Shoes"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos)
https://youtu.be/ZlKpp-9uQZQ

HATTIE LITTLES
12) "I've Never Found A Man [[To Love Me Like You Do)"
[[Jones - Floyd - Isbel)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/gi5Ise3XzIA

G.C. CAMERON
13) "No Need To Explain"
[[I. Levine - G.C. Cameron)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/68tga0IJu4Q

BETTYE LAVETTE
14) "Love Caught Me Out"
[[I. Levine - S. Greene)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/01QErWpDNhk

SYREETA WRIGHT
15) "Love Fire"
[[M. Aler - B. Esty)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/L6vI_1yHTgU

EARL VAN DYKE
16) "'Detroit City"
[[Ian Levine - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/i0VKcKIQSSo

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20324

20325

20326

MOTORCITY HTCD 7704-2
V.A. - "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 4)"[[Compilation 1995)


JIMMY RUFFIN
1) "Wake Me Up When It's Over"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/RBYg_4oEtdA

FRANCES NERO
2) "You're The Push Behind Me"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/-tKs_fJAwC4

JAKE JACAS
3) "Two-Way Street"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Billy Griffin
https://youtu.be/OAxMBlISoUY

THE MIRACLES
4) "Heaven Knows"
[[A. Cleveland - Darryl Cleveland - Carl Cotton - Dave Finley)
Producer: Ian Levine & Bobby Rodgers
https://youtu.be/xj8iv734Tvo [[https://youtu.be/xj8iv734Tvo)

SISTERS LOVE
5) "Sympathy"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/hGO6ByZI_4U

MABLE JOHN
6) "Time Stops"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/6CdTs7G_4E0

SHERRI TAYLOR
7) "Weak Hearted"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Sylvia Moy
https://youtu.be/wchI-XiQXtQ

LOIS REEVES
8) "Patience Is A Virtue"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Sylvia Moy
https://youtu.be/PD1rhEKwvqI

BILLY GORDON & C-BRAND
9) "Half Hearted"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Bobby Taylor
https://youtu.be/RxuDTuYsqIA

MARILYN McLEOD
10) "Wish You Were Here"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Marilyn McLeod & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/Oagdj4OML6A

BLINKY [[Williams)
11) "Good For Nothing"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/Gg6I424dc9g

THE SATINTONES
12) "It's A Rough World"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/11b5JsmVO4g

LOUVAIN DEMPS
13) "On The Front Page"
[Producer: Ian Levine
[No video available]

SCHERRIE PAYNE
14) "Who's Wrong, Who's Right"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/bChDxm_NQZo

FRANKIE GAYE
15) "I Wish That I Could Be"
[[Frankie Gaye)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/biNUYeAAXgM

CAROLYN CRAWFORD
16) "Timeless"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/Ks-rpZXJens

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20327

20328

20329

MOTORCITY HTCD 7705-2
V.A. - "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 5)"[[Compilation 1995)


EDWIN STARR
1) "Girl You're My Everything"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/X_vE9LziV2A

BRENDA HOLLOWAY
2) "Fighting For What's Right"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/bg2rJOpj2l4

BILLY GRIFFIN
3) "Changing It Up"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Billy Griffin
https://youtu.be/Cz0k0UI4SEA

THE CONTOURS
4) "Under Love's Control"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/D-HQRDuutXY

BARBARA RANDOLPH
5) "From The Start"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Jake Jacas
https://youtu.be/aV7xYlEA6uA

THE LOVETONES
6) "Fire Alarm"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/X4xC3ugQ5X8

LINDA GRINER
7) "Somebody's Gotta Go"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/ID1fZEXf5-w

BILLY ECKSTINE & SUSAYE GREEN
8) "It's Impossible"
[[Canche Manzanero - Sid Wayne)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/8qjEOZMKubY

BARBARA McNAIR
9) "Face To Face With Love"
[[Ian Lavine - Sylvia Moy - Steven Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/z6w3zMFoOH8

HATTIE LITTLES
10) "So Far Away"
[[Carole King)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/7CKxcalBF6U

THE ELGINS
11) "Two Wrongs Don't Make A Right"
[[Ian Levine - Buford Glanton)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/WcGivDsWL_Q

JAMES ELLIS
12) "If You Don't Want My Love"
[[R. Pedrick - M. Gately - L. David)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/Ts6y63wSofs

LIZ LANDS
13) "Further Than Ever"
[[Ian Levine - Vernon Williams - Steven Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/SJJ8cUofw2w

JEAN TERRELL
14) "Everything To Me"
[[Ian Levine - Sylvia Moy - Steven Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/0rDp7AXXyKA

CHUCK JACKSON
15) "Relight My Fire"
[[Dan Hartman)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/wCzEiOgiYRU

THREE OUNCES IF LOVE
16) "Evil One"
[[Arthur Resnick - Kenny Young)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/6dKhxQS6dks

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20330

20331

20332

MOTORCITY HTCD 7706-2
V.A. - "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 6)"[[Compilation 1995)


JOHNNY BRISTOL
1) "Look Into The Eyes Of A Fool"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Johnny Bristol
https://youtu.be/qyfew0bASuI

KIM WESTON
2) "Somebody's Eyes"
[[Viola Wills)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/zFcf1zPaDdE

MARV JOHNSON
3) "Paper Kisses"
[[Ian Levine & Marv Johnson)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/V7f6VqKjaYg

PAT LEWIS
4) "Don't Memories Mean A Thing"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Lee John
https://youtu.be/EO8yu_dGL4w

C.P. SPENCER
5) "This Man Needs You"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Sylvia Moy
https://youtu.be/Azn2amey8-g

SAUNDRA EDWARDS
6) "Sunny Weather"
[Producer: Ian Lavine
https://youtu.be/kla9ZCBcVsM

THE MONITORS
7) "You Are My Destiny"
[[Ian Lavine - Sylvia Moy - Steven Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/twpDlA6iQVY

LYNDA LAURENCE
8) "I'm Not Taking A Chance"
[[Ian Levine - Lynda Laurence)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/WiSDMiRYPuY

MIKE & BRENDA SUTTON
9) "No Other Love"
[[Ian Levine - Mike Sutton - Brenda Sutton)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/qqASS2kBrrA

VERMETTYA ROYSTER
10) "Dreamer"
[[Ian Levine - Lee John)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/br1ekAk9K1Y

BOBBY TAYLOR & THE VANCOUVERS
11) "Find My Way Back"
[[Ian Levine - Bobby Taylor - Haneefa Karim)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/UdbjS05OJSo

THE MARVELETTES
12) "Ride The Storm"
[Producer: Ian Lavine
https://youtu.be/VEgVJ3xkCT8

G.C. CAMERON
13) "Come Back To Me"
[[Ian Levine - Susaye Greene)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/GNMxEFrEkf8

ORTHEIA BARNES
14) "Without Your Love"
[[Jerry Steinberga)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/XYFKbqLeZRI

MIKE & THE MODIFIERS
15) "Waiting 'Round The Corner"
[[Ian Levine - Mike Valvano)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/XPUlI6733Kk

THE VELVELETTES
16) "One Door Closes, Another One Opens"
[[Ian Levine - Vernon Williams - Steve Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/K083JFAn9N8

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20333

20334

20335


MOTORCITY HTCD 7707-2
V.A. - "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 7)"[[Compilation 1995)

FREDA PAYNE
1) "Memories & Souvenirs"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Billy Griffin
https://youtu.be/gEKYKSTv1lQ

J.J. BARNES
2) "Whatever Happened To Our Melody"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/egIXRA1wyxU

MARTHA REEVES & THE VANDELLAS
3) "Angel In Disguise"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/8SNFJCqGG5Y

THE ORIGINALS
4) "Take The Only Way Out"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/myFNxXKsGpQ

THE ANDANTES
5) "The Boss"
[[N. Ashford - Valerie Simpson)
Producer: Ian Levine)
https://youtu.be/SZxT2mhA9v4

PETE HOORELBEKE
6) "Standing In The Rain"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/0UHlOyamLzM

RICHARD "POPCORN" WYLIE
7) "See This Man In Love"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Richard Wylie
https://youtu.be/nANiVxhBo48

P.J. [[Patti Jerome)
8) "Tender Loving Care"
[[Gloria Jones - Pam Sawyer - Patti Jerome)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/n4f2TTfQ5k4

MARY WELLS
9) "Hold On A Little Longer"
[Producer : Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/6JEDLs4tVMs

FRANK WILSON
10) "Promises To Keep"
[[Frank Wilson)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/WfxzISl-5Ig

JEAN, SCHERRIE & LYNDA [[FLOS)
11) "I Want To Be Loved"
[[Jeff Coz - Richard Ellison)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/0icqJdglQlk

RONNIE McNEIR
12) "Don't Know If This Is Goodbye"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Ronnie McNeir
https://youtu.be/W6_aPS89H4Q

VEE
13) "You're My Loveline"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Marilyn McLeod
https://youtu.be/qEHID_GTp9s

MARY WILSON
14) "Oooh Child"
[[Stan Vincent)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/KHvEnZYLluw

MICKEY DENTON
15) "Fighting Back"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Timothy King
https://youtu.be/0RjYi2qxYKg

BETTYE LAVETTE
16) "Too Great A Price To Pay"
[[Ian Levine - Jake Jacas)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/di4QiG37ph0

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20336

20337

20338

MOTORCITY HTCD 7716-2
V.A. - "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 8)"
[[Compilation 1996)


UNDISPUTED TRUTH
1) "Law Of The Land"
[[Norman Whitfeld)
Producer: Ian Levine & Joe Harris
https://youtu.be/OILF_NLjszk

JOHNNY BRISTOL
2) "Don't Keep Your Distance"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Johnny Bristol
https://youtu.be/zuyEV5OPjuA

FRANCES NERO
3) "Making My Daydream Real"
[[L. McNeil)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/qZ3OaXDT6lM

FRANKIE GAYE
4) "Extraordinary Girl"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/hJaz82xLW2k

BILLY GRIFFIN
5) "Walk Away From Love"
[[C. Kipps)
Producer: Ian Lavine
https://youtu.be/tTYnpF4r39w

BETTYE LAVETTE
6) "Good Luck"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Sylvia Moy
https://youtu.be/P21nxgdxBpo

MARV JOHNSON
7) "Can't Take Another Day"
[[Ian Levine - Hazel Dean)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/bgupMuU5IJI

VERMETTYA ROYSTER
8) "The Comfort Of Your Arms"
[[Ian Levine - P. Sheyne)
Producer: Ian Levine
[Video Not Available]

THE ANDANTES
9) "Last Dance"
[[P. Jabara)
Producer: Ian Levine
[Video Not Available]

SAUNDRA EDWARDS
10) "Out On The Street"
[[Ian Levine - P. Sheyne)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/-6XSDOwIIrI

JOE STUBBS
11) "Give Me Just A Little More Time"
[[R. Dunbar - E. Wayne)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/o7JJEHl8OB8

BARBARA RANDOLPH
12) "End Of The Line"
[[Ian Levine - Jake Jacas)
Producer: Ian Levine
[Video Not Available]

JAKE JACAS
13) "Count To Ten"
[[Ian Levine - Jake Jacas)
Producer: Ian Levine
[Video Not Available]

THE VALADIERS
14) "Love Don't Love Nobody"
[[C. Simms - J. Jefferson)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/IhMq6Ymkl4I

BETTY KELLY
15) "Giving Me The Runaround"
[[Ian Levine - Sylvia Moy - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/CKJkhcWVoIc

SHERRI TAYLOR
16) "What A Difference A Day Makes"
[[M. Grover - S. Adams)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/-hegdUH49rA

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20339

20340

20341

MOTORCITY HTCD 7717-2
V.A. - "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 9)"
[[Compilation 1996)


MARTHA REEVES
1) "Number One"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/5V3rLYtuRNk

THE FIFTH DIMENSION
2) "Love Hangover"
[[Pam Sawyer - Marilyn McLeod)
Producer: Ian Lavine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/99fxoIBSru0

RARE EARTH
3) "Playing To Win"
[https://youtu.be/xASPSxrq5Pk[/URL]

BRENDA HOLLOWAY
4) "All It Takes"
[[Ian Lavine - Sylvia Moy)
[I]Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/QtS4QPwE5Kg

THE ELGINS
5) "You Got Emotion"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/5g4GmP-S42I

PAT LEWIS
6) "The Rhythm Is Right"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/tyOyWvdylIo

SISTERS LOVE
7) "Somebody' Shake Me"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/3gtc7UGSuWw

RONNIE McNEIR
8) "No More Confusion"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/MJ9zIHod14Q

LYNDA LAURENCE
9) "True Love Can't Be Replaced"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/eXBl_aDT0h8

LIZ LANDS
10) "Like A Raging Fire"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/yb82izkn_ZU

LEEZA MILLER
11) "Tomorrow Never Comes"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/LdC9PWxhdGE

EARL VAN DYKE
12) "No One Gets The Prize"
[[N. Ashford - V. Simpson)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/afxS21IGAic

BILLIE CALVIN
13) "You Got The Love I Need"
[[N. Whitfield - Barrett Strong)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/F7HMfjRnVfc

C P. SPENCER
14) "You're So Fantastic"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/ZUedfeQS35I

CLAUDETTE ROBINSON
15) "Hurry Up"
[Producer: Ian Levine & R. Gianatos
https://youtu.be/3EfdyEaguvw

BEANS BOWLES & THE SWINGING TYGERS
16) "Michigan"
[[I. Levine)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/K6GLynG9dB0

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20342

20343

20344

MOTORCITY HTCD 7718-2
V.A.- "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 10)"
[[Compilation 1996)


MARY WELLS
1) "You're The Answer To My Dreams"
[[N/A)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/UWtaMxfrMVY

SCHERRIE PAYNE
2) "I'm Still Waiting"
[[N/A)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/RH16eOwAtUs

THE ORIGINALS
3) "Please Mr. Postman"
[[NA)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/orHPijjQLPE

BOBBY TAYLOR & THE VANCOUVERS
4) "Window To Your Heart"
[[NA)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/9tBlvWvder4

G C. CAMERON
5) "Right Of Way"
[[NA)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/Tt6KJMu3w0I

VERMETTYA ROYSTER
6) "Where Did We Go Wrong"
[[NA)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/jysW7C9eaTw

SYLVIA MOY
7) "Major Investment"
[[NA)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/x75r6tnirIU

THE LOVETONES
8) "On The Other Side"
[[NA)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/tNMhz6XJCPo

BARBARA McNAIR
9) "You're Gonna Love My Baby"
[[NA)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/PUbBgaGEktU

THE SATINTONES
10) "Perfect Combination"
[[NA)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/0GN3RDyQ21Q

PAT LEWIS
11) "Baby I'm Cool"
[[NA)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/xP9Fn2-Is9I

BLINKY [[Williams)
12) "LifeSaver"
[[NA)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/UZE4ybVVEoI

JAKE JACAS
13) "As Serious As You Wanna Get"
[[NA)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/XMvZIizp9Nc

JOE STUBBS
14) "My Baby's Got E.S.P."
[[NA)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/E0593SebGGk

MIKE & THE MODIFIERS
15) "Senseless"
[[NA)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/7eZBEkXJS10

FRANCES NERO
16) "Flight L-O-V-E"
[[NA)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/Ld_wztc0gXM

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20345

20346

20347

MOTORCITY HTCD 7719-2
V.A.- "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 11)"
[[Compilation 1996)


THE MONITORS
1) "Forever And Ever"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/1QREZw9ERc0

PETE HOORELBEKE
2) "Talk To The World"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/xjtcZIVdr1s

EDWIN STARR
3) "Round And Round"
[https://youtu.be/r_nlJ_2jPIM[/URL]

BILLY GRIFFIN
4) "Am I The One"
[[ I. Levine - B. Griffin)
[I]Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/QICxIXeWlPc

JEAN TERRELL
5) "Too Many Memories"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/1J7NaZkDQ4k

RONNIE McNEIR
6) "Take The First Step"
[Producer: Ian Levine & R. McNeir
https://youtu.be/pvBGRFiVqoA

THE FANTASTIC FOUR
7) "If You Need Me, Call Me"
[Producer: Ian Levine
[No Video Available]

SISTERS LOVE
8) "A Little Bit Of Magic"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/js_GuF20qxA

LYNDA LAURENCE
9) "Outside Looking In"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/cnTx7izTM6k

SAMMY WARD
10) "Part-Time Love"
[[J. Bradford - R. Wylie)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/idLMNRjOF8U

MABLE JOHN
11) "From Bitter To Sweet"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/scCpaVK2Y18

BARBARA RANDOLPH
12) "Don't Close The Door"
[[I. Levine - E. Singleton)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/z4VW6lc7QZ8

THE ANDANTES
13) "Will You Always Be There"
[[I. Levine - H. Dean)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/YDKi3OZcFwY

HATTIE LITTLES
14) "Dancing In The Key Of Life"
[[S. Arrington - I. Arrington)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/Mb0WlgxWbNQ

THE LEWIS SISTERS
15) "Dancing With Danger"
[[I. Levine - H. Lewis - K. Lewis)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/v0GccPYTFWI

HERMAN GRIFFIN
16) "Not One Chance In A Million"
[[I. Levine - I.J. Hunter - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/hY5FLEUklz8

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20348

20349

20350

MOTORCITY HTCD 7720-2
V.A.- "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 12)"
[[Compilation 1996)


SYREETA
1) "I Can't Give Back The Love I Feel For You"
[[N. Ashford - V. Simpson - B. Holland)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/Cs87h_CLxKU

PAT LEWIS
2) "I Don't Want Nobody Else"
[[I. Levine - J. Reid - G. Wilson - H. Bronkin - R. Campbell)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/ANEm3mtMzTA

THE CONTOURS
3) "Revenge"
[[I. Levine - J. Giscombe)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/MipjI3vuYuU

THREE OUNCES OF LOVE
4) "Newsy Neighbors"
[[A. Felder - N. Harris)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/-XGx8j8hGlI

THE LOVETONES
5) "Key To My Happiness"
[[R. Maxwell)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/Z6D9mEGO4hE

MOTORCITY ALL STARS
6) "Can I Get A Witness"
[[B. Holland - L. Dozier - E. Holland)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/rr1bolUkU4Y

FREDDIE GORMAN
7) "I Just Keep Falling In Love"
[[I. Levine - F. Gorman - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/XE16sIvz3vs

FRANCES NERO
8) "Sacrifice"
[[I. Levine)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/5KdiN0z2-o4

JAKE JACAS
9) "Save It Baby [[Save All Your Lovin')"
[[I. Levine - B. Griffin)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/m-sGNGw2Gd8

HANK DIXON
10) "It's So Hard Being A Loser"
[[J. Dean - W. Weatherspoon - G. McMullen)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/fVhULFsKqJM

SAUNDRA EDWARDS
11) "Just In Time For Love"
[[I. Levine - P. Sheyne)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/qBtiPpYET7k

BLINKY [[Williams)
12) "I Wouldn't Change The Man He Is"
[[N. Ashford - V. Simpson)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/wXzWNtU3gc8

LINDA GRINER
13) "Prime-Time Lover"
[[I. Levine - L. Griner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/7N9WY6PCUOU

IVY JO HUNTER
14) "Eyewitness News"
[[I. Levine - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/Rk5_6hYdrM0

CHOKER CAMPBELL
15) "Walk In The Night"
[[J. Bristol - M. McLeod)
Producer: Ian Levine & Sylvia Moy
https://youtu.be/9-GsCO-rxlo

LOUVAIN DEMPS
16) "Better Times"
[[I. Levine - I. Douglas)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/oCrRonop5Fw

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20351

20352

20353

MOTORCITY HTCD 7746-2
V.A.- "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 13)"
[[Compilation 1997)


BRENDA HOLLOWAY
1) "You've Made Me So Very Happy"
[[B. Holloway - P. Holloway)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/IkQSQvC6UhQ

JOHNNY BRISTOL
2) "No More Heartaches Today"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Johnny Bristol
https://youtu.be/SOusjHLwAR8

RONNIE McNEIR
3) "You're My Lucky Number"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Ronnie McNair
https://youtu.be/oaB2NqzCP3I

SISTERS LOVE
4) "Melting Ice"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/y5T1QnEC-us

THE ORIGINALS
5) "Baby I'm For Real"
[[M. Gaye - F. Gaye)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/BYgVqfRYv_Q

SAUNDRA EDWARDS
6) "All Or Nothing"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/lcmK-XKA4MI

BOBBY TAYLOR & THE VANCOUVERS
7) "Down To Love Town"
[[P. Daniels - B. Sutton - C. Wakefield)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/DyyWVUWLRJE

THE ANDANTES
8) "Step Into My Shoes"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/1PhY_Qqxy5k

J.J. & ORTHEIA BARNES
9) "Send Some Love"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Sylvia Moy
https://youtu.be/xO5160gYZAA

JOE STUBBS
10) "Smoke's In The Air"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/C7OxcsMR3q8

BETTYE LAVETTE
11) "Right Out Of Time"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/icJDnzJJII0

JAKE JACAS
12) "Magic's In The Air"
[[V. Montana, Jr. - R. Walker)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/lu30ITNbsjQ

CAROLYN CRAWFORD
13) "Cry To Me"
[[S. Dees - D. Camon)
Producer: Ian Lavine
https://youtu.be/5wKIJj1Qmak

VERMETTYA ROYSTER
14) "If I Were Your Woman"
[[P. Sawyer - L. Ware - C. McMurray)
Producer: Ian Lavine
https://youtu.be/KqcRiNHI0x0

SUSAYE GREENE
15) "Free"
[[D. Williams - H. Redd - N. Watts - S. Greene)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/O37C0szuDos

LEEZA MILLEER
16) "Sign Of A Heartache"
[[I. Levine - L. Miller - T. Wood - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/CMfUod4RrDw

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20354

20355

20356

MOTORCITY HTCD 7747-2
V.A.- "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 14)"
[[Compilation 1997)


JIMMY RUFFIN & BRENDA HOLLOWAY
1) "On The Rebound"
[Producer: Ian Levine[/B]
https://youtu.be/iNl_EJd-Ees

CAROLYN CRAWFORD
2) "My Smile Is Just A Frown Turned Upside-Down"
[[Wm. Robinson)
[I]Producer: Ian Lavine
https://youtu.be/IScdnZX8VFU

THE MONITORS
3) "Cold As Ice"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/9kVVePajOq0

BETTYE LAVETTE
4) "Jimmy Mack"
[[E. Holland - L. Dozier - B. Holland)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/km0HKFr4K3I

PAT LEWIS
5) "Separation"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Billy Griffin
https://youtu.be/5zaGavLO2x8

BARBARA RANDOLOH
6) "Soul Searching"
[[I. Levine - Jake Jacas)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/y5tG51-E0RM

J.J. BARNES
7) "Build A Foundation"
[[I. Levine - S. Moy - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/RpM4lodMdAk

SAUNDRA EDWARDS
8) "Crush On You"
[[Ian Levine - P. Sheyne)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/Fkx7DGJYubc

SISTERS LOVE
9) "Right Between The Eyes"
[[I. Levine - Biddu)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/fBcDedpsyEo

BARBARA McNAIR
10) "For Once In My Life"
[[R. Miller - O. Murden)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/bQp_4RmFGf0

THE SATINTONES
11) "Half A Man"
[[I. Levine - V. Williams - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/on_6nJ57s3I

FRANCES NERO
12) "Come Back And Start Again"
[[!. Levine - F. Nero)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/rw4U46ZPD5Q

THE ELGINS
13) "Don't Wait Around"
[[I. Levine - C. McMurray - K. Pree - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/EDY7CNUIhy8

BENNY REEVES & THE MONITORS
14) "Function At The Junction"
[[F. Long - B. Holland - L. Dozier - E. Holland)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/-LvllYpUIp4

CHICO LEVERETTE
15) "Look Into The Future"
[[I. Levine - C. Leverette - V. Williams - S. Saunders)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/tOItGsdVzfw

THE LEWIS SISTERS
16) "Just Walk In My Shoes"
[[H. Mastor- K. Miller)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/Qkq7VVureT4

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20357

20358

20359

MOTORCITY HTCD 7748-2
V.A.- "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 15)"
[[Compilation 1997)


EDWIN STARR
1) "Just Another Fool In Love"
[[E. Starr)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/byokCVMyGE0

JOHNNY BRISTOL
2) "Keep This Thought In Mind"
[Producer: Ian Levine, Johnny Bristol & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/wocPcEaZhAQ

MARVJOHNSON
3) "Just A Little Misunderstanding"
[[S. Wonder - S. Broadnax - C. Paul)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/3mUKGJgJeuE

BILLY GRIFFIN
4) "Losing You Tonight"
[[I. Levine - B. Griffin)
Producer: Ian Levine & Billy Griffin
https://youtu.be/jh-BSo-u0PQ

BOBBY TAYLOR & THE VANCOUVERS
5) "Talk To The World"
[[I. Levine - B. Taylor - B. McGowan)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/VOQU7ZnDUOE

BILLY ECKSTINE
6) "Ask The Lonely"
[[W. Stevenson - I.J. Hunter)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/gdoVgLytlJE

ROSE BANKS
7) "You Keep Me Hanging On"
[[E. Holland - L. Dozier - B. Holland)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/ooV9_R8XyEs

RONNIE McNEIR
8) "Keep On Giving Me Love"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Ronnie McNeir
https://youtu.be/MFE660nN09U

THE VELVELETTES
9) "Running Out Of Luck"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Fiachra Trench
https://youtu.be/hMQDWGb2zB0

THE LOVETONES
10) "Turn This Heart Around"
[[I. Levine - B. Glanton)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/uyx0ULKz9OQ

FRANKIE GAYE
11) "Cross That Bridge"
[[I. Levine - A. Cleveland - D. Cleveland - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/3YLJzfRhLNE

THE VALADIERS
12) "No Competition"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/r1Z5fpxF7E8

HATTIE LITTLES
13) "Running A Fever"
[[I. Levine - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/zHwNxT8jOaY

SAUNDRA EDWARDS
14) "L.O.V.E. Lovestruck"
[[I. Levine - P. Sheyne)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/3OZl17EH0ls

LINDA GRINER
15) "Not This Time"
[Producer: I. Levine
https://youtu.be/YUkxcs2YLvQ [[https://youtu.be/YUkxcs2YLvQ)

LOUVAIN DEMPS
16) "My Heart Won't Say No"
[[I. Levine - J. Jacas)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/6g9Bu19kuSY

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20360

20361

20362

MOTORCITY HTCD 7749-2
V.A.- "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 16)"
[[Compilation 1997)


MARY WELLS
1) "Keeping My Mind On Love"
[Producer: Ian Levine, Freddie Gorman & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/3-FfN0ukVG4

BILLY GRIFFIN
2) "Angel"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Billy Griffin
https://youtu.be/T8VSpqAMU_c

FRANKIE GAYE
3) "What Goes Around"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/8cq1Q8eUXTs

THE CONTOURS
4) "Heaven Sent"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/iD82J8qlUr0

THE MONITORS
5) "Grazing In The Grass"
[[P. Hou - H. Elston)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/c-BaYzeTgj8

EDWIN STARR
6) "Memories & Souvenirs"
[[E. Levine - E. Starr)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/mheowpEgDQI

SAUNDRA EDWARDS
7) "New Hope"
[[I. Levine - E. Starr)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/q819rPGCNVc

BILLY ECKSTINE
8) "Gentle Lady"
[[I. Levine - S. Moy)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/CLfcV3TF9i0

J.J. BARNES
9) "Talk Of The Grapevine"
[[I. Levine - J. Barnes - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/Xo-4gvZI8Qg

THE SATINTONES
10) "Shake Me, Wake Me"
[[B. Holland - L. Dozier - E. Holland)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/_sTvQoY-yC4

JOHNNY BRISTOL & LIZ LANDS
11) "Someday We'll Be Together"
[[J. Bristol - J. Beavers - H. Fuqua)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/0xwqOG3GsiI

THE FANTASTIC FOUR
12) "I've Fallen And I Can't Get Up"
[[I. Levine - J. Epps)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/FWP-C79mo7Y

HATTIE LITTLES
13) "The Right Direction"
[[A. Schroeck - J. Loring)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/V-S3bYIijVs

LYNDA LAURENCE
14) "Fresh Out Of Tears
[[I. Levine - P. Sheyne)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/SBpojLUDUV0

LOUVAIN DEMPS
15) "One Shot At Happiness"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Jake Jacas
https://youtu.be/ON-n9l1Hllo

BENNY REEVES
16) "Show Me The Way To Love"
[Producer: Ian Levine, Sylvia Moy & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/bICvSo6LM4w

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20363

20364

20365

MOTORCITY HTCD 7750-2
V.A.- "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 17)"
[[Compilation 1997)


FREDA PAYNE
1) "Band Of Gold"
[[R. Dunbar - E. Wayne)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/iXx9gqzsAyg

KIM WESTON
2) "Helpless"
[[B. Holland - L. Dozier - E. Holland)
Producer: Ian Levine & Fiachra Trench
https://youtu.be/syjtNSyz_Xg

EDWIN STARR & BLINKY
3) "Fear"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/S16vTlLpv_0

LYNDA LAURENCE
4) "Crying Shame"
[[P. Sheyne - A. Friedman)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/XX3v_ZWXbgo

THE ORIGINALS
5) "Love Still Lives In My Heart"
[[I. Levine - F. Gorman- S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/BzMl2weUur8

THE MARVELETTES
6) "For The Rest Of My Life"
[[I. Levine - I. Giscombe)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/lI7X_N0r5ac

BARBARA RANDOLPH
7) "Stop And Start"
[[I. Lavine - J. Jacas)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/OkLuZbgNiRI

THE ELGINS
8) "Brand New Feeling"
[[I. Levine - T. McNair - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/v-Dm_i2jFM4

BEANS BOWLES & THE SWINGING TYGERS
9) "Motorcity Magic"
[[I. Levine - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/nSezQVHmkSA

VERMETTYA ROYSTER
10) "Two Timer"
[[I. Levine - Biddu
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/qS6--VKeltM

BETTYE LAVETTE
11) "Time Won't Change This Love"
[[I. Levine - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/koKG-SxmUyg

G.C. CAMERON
12) "You're What's Missing In My Life"
[[H. Beatty - B. Holland - E. Holland)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/47gjTeT2mow

SAUNDRA EDWARDS
13) "Thin Line"
[[I. Levine - P. Sheyne)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/5WtCZ9en0u0

HANK DIXON
14) "Bring It Back"
[[I. Levine - F. Gorman - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/kfLgSo854fc

LIZ LANDS
15) "How Sweet It Is [[To Be Loved By You)"
[[B. Holland - L. Dozier - E. Holland)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/fSZk6wW8xbs

SAMMY WARD
16) "Sister Lee"
[[R. Wylie - T. Hester)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/KVt5FlNss_8

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20366

20367

20368

MOTORCITY HTCD 7751-2
V.A.- "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 18)"
[[Compilation 1997)


KIM WESTON
1) "My Heart's Not Made Of Stone"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/l2GOPIfyxTk

LOUVAIN DEMPS
2) "On The Beach"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/zIIZZQQ2JD0

JEAN, SCHERRIE & LYNDA [[FLOS)
3) "Crazy 'Bout The Guy"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/2DTVpcAnnzw

BARBARA RANDOLPH
4) "I Got A Feeling"
[[B. Holland - L. Dozier - E. Holland)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/h9ywb_8HviY

THE VALADIERS
5) "What's Wrong With Me Baby"
[[Linzer - Rondell)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos)
https://youtu.be/lAx7LwCTmKk

LYNDA LAURENCE
6) "Right Around Midnight"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/0oxO_vO443I

BILLY GRIFFIN
7) "So Hung Up On You"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/czCZjdi6zoQ

SISTERS LOVE
8) "Tonight"
[Producer: Ian Levine
[Video Not Available]

THE ELGINS
9) "Heading Away From Heartaches"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/Rs3CHNfjUyo

SAUNDRA EDWARDS
10) "Sunshine Love"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/rEnh2i02kaw

RARE EARTH
11) "Love Is Here And Now You're Gone"
[[B. Holland - L. Dozier - E. Holland)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/_lQoaSfFSwk

SUSAYE GREENE
12) "Stop, I Need You Now"
[[I. Levine - S. Greene)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/i1yNYuQIQ7M

BOBBY TAYLOR & THE VANCOUVERS
13) "Finders Keepers"
[[I. Levine - B. Taylor - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/dDLgeZWalxI

FREDDIE GORMAN
14) "Don't Make The Same Mistake Twice"
[[I. Levine - F. Gorman - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/d8hBwX6NUs0

BETTY KELLY
15) "I Need To Be Independent"
[[I. Levine - B. Taylor - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/Sm8P3tCucoU

CHOKER CAMPBELL
16) "After Dark"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/O_LkP7q3ZCw

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20369

20370

20371

MOTORCITY HTCD 7752-2
V.A.- "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 19)"
[[Compilation 1997)


THE MIRACLES
1) "Love Machine"
[[B. Griffin - P. Moore)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/WHcQ5wRZ9iUq

MARY WILSON
2) "Don't Get Mad, Get Even"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Fiachra Trench
https://youtu.be/wHrBMYmIrXw
'
SYREETA
3) "Moment Of Weakness"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Syreeta Wright
https://youtu.be/KzQs6pPJ2UA

THE CONTOURS
4) "Running In Circles"
[[I. Levine - M. McLeod - J. Bradford - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/6BdyUTXuSLM

THE VANDELLAS
5) "Not Gonna Be Ready"
[Producer: Ian Levine & I.J. Hunter
https://youtu.be/TDuXMvQ3Zbg

THE MOTORCITY ALL-STARS
6) "Motown Revue"
[[L. Barry - B. Ingram)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/PEYtmzA6rak

THE LOVETONES
7) "Sitting In The Park"
[[B. Stewart)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/008mEjgPd28

BARBARA RANDOLPH
8) "Lost"
[[I. Levine & S. Moy)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/SocDbYO5u88

PAT LEWIS
9) "Moving On"
[[I. Levine - L. John)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/lxsDihkEXwc

CAROLYN CRAWFORD
10) "Since I Lost My Baby"
[[W. Robinson - P. Moore)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/f80AgG5Rh-I

SAUDRA EDWARDS
11) "Three-Way Love Affair"
[[I. Levine - E. Starr)
Producer: Ian Levine
[Video Not Available]

VERMETTYA ROYSTER
12) "Young Heart's Run Free"
[[D. Crawford)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/yfe4J7JV5tQ

SYLVIA MOY
13) "My Cherie Amour"
[[S. Moy - S. Wonder - H. Cosby)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/O799e2Q1tqs

THE ANDANTES
14) "Throw Love Away"
[[I. Levine - J. Bristol - T. King - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/dNIFgzOJikI

ORTHEIA BARNES
15) "Love Changes"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Sylvia Moy
https://youtu.be/0ZQlBdYjJ0s

THE RAYBER VOICES
16) "Mister Magician"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Ray Gordy Singleton
https://youtu.be/uOqauDeXZro

[Philles/Motown Gary]

20372

20373

20374

MOTORCITY HTCD 7753-2
V.A.- "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 20)"
[[Compilation 1997)


MARTHA REEVES & G.C. CAMERON
1) "You're All I Need To Get By"
[[N. Ashford - V. Simpson)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/KeVziWWRemc

RONNIE McNEIR
2) "Wholeheartedly"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Ronnie McNeir
https://youtu.be/nbJXR3hy2R4

THE MARVELETTES
3) "Holding On With Both Hands"
[[I. Lavine - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/GTgCLYgfcsg

PAT LEWIS
4) "See You When I Get There"
[Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/8vpVK-5hQKY

THE MONITORS
5) "Through The Test Of Time"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Sylvia Moy
https://youtu.be/of4SMzcXyRY

THE VELVELETTES
6) "That's When The Tears Start"
[[V. McCoy)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/UZwhoLMeEec

THE ELGINS
7) "It' Sensational"
[Producer - Ian Levine & Billy Griffin
https://youtu.be/pvyEZAPqows

VERMETTYA ROYSTER
8) "Watch Out Boy"
[[I. Levine - Biddu)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/vBYgo0wQYNU

BARBARA RANDOLPH
9) "Breaking Into My Heart"
[[I. Levine - Jake Jacas)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/IJrUXxyrWCk

MARV JOHNSON
10) "Heart For Sale"
[[I. Levine - H. Dean)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/M1bLbvP3wMg

SCHERRIE PAYNE
11) "One More Time"
[[I. Levine - F. Gorman - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/o0gO0u_U4r4

BOBBY TAYLOR & THE VANCOUVERS
12) "Cloudy Day"
[[I. Levine - B. Taylor - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/VgQEtZW3AUA

EARL VAN DYKE Featuring THE ANDANTES
13) "Six By Six"
[[T. Nixon - P. Riser)
Producer - Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/bDVmm1cxzG0

SHERRI TAYLOR
14) "Love Is Like An Itching In My Heart"
[[B. Holland - L. Dozier - E. Holland)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/D9IpSjS5rFg

MARILYN McLEOD
15) "Straight On The Line"
[[M. McLeod)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/O_DF4XW7IMk

CLAUDETTE ROBINSON
16) "Ooh Baby Baby"
[[W. Robinson - P. Moore)
Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/FoPx3FCK3D0

[Philles/Motown Gary]

The posting is completed. [[Thank you so much, Kenny! As always, you did a beautiful job with the uploads!) Everyone, please feel free to post your comments now. Again, thanks for your patience.

[mysterysinger]

Wow great work guys - thanks for all that info. Gonna take some digesting - the variety of artists that recorded for the project is amazing.

[westgrandboulevard]

PMG/Kenny....

A wonderful effort from you both! This will hold my interest for a long while.

So...

We now have 320 of the Motorcity tracks represented on this thread.

It would be really interesting [at least, to me!] to know, from these tracks, which are considered the real top favourites by those interested in the Motorcity releases.

Maybe we could agree on a certain number of them to select as our own personal 'VERY Best Of' selection?

For example:

16....to make one equivalent CD album?
32....to make an equivalent double CD album?
or 48/50, to make an equivalent 3CD box set?

[copley]

Thanks. Apart from about three tracks Levine's productions & compositions are awful and that's being kind. They were synthased, lacked soul and had no connection to the true Motown sound. It has also been alleged that most artists were never paid.

[kenneth]

Thanks. Apart from about three tracks Levine's productions & compositions are awful and that's being kind. They were synthased, lacked soul and had no connection to the true Motown sound. It has also been alleged that most artists were never paid.

I tend to agree with you for the most part. But it was interesting, because while I was doing the uploads of the photos, I did listen to a few of the tracks, and I found some that I did like. What was most amazing to me is that most of the artists sound absolutely wonderful, for example, Gladys Horton, Marv Johnson, Scherrie Payne of course, sound just the way you remember them as if their voices hadn’t faded at all over the years. It was also a revelation to me to learn that Billy Eckstine recorded a few tracks, including one of the standard, “Its Impossible,” with Susaye. He must’ve been very well on in years because his voice really didn’t sound like him, unless you listen very closely because his voice was weak but I have to think he was in his 80s by then. Still it’s a historical document having him on record and of course, I love Susaye. It’s a shame most of the material doesn’t rise to the level of the artists themselves, but I guess we have to be thankful that many of them got a chance to at least record again. I know I’ve said it before, but that’s why I do appreciate his work with Wanda and the Marvelettes especially.

[MIKEW-UK]

Wow, that is quite some upload. Amazing stuff. Well done!!

What is striking is that 90% of the songs were cowritten by Ian Levine. I had no idea he was suchba prolific songwriter. Did Ian concentrate on lyrics, or was the melodic structure his focus? He collaborated with Ivy Jo, Al Cleveland,
Billy Griffin, Marilyn McCleod, James Epps, Bobby Taylor, Johnny Bristol and on and on. Wow!

[westgrandboulevard]

Not to take anything at all away from Ian Levine's songwriting talent, but I always presumed he had his name added to the songwriting credits, to earn additional publishing revenue, and which would offset his own financial investment?

But if, in the event, he really did contribute to the composition to all those songs, then I do have to admire his efforts....

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Wow great work guys - thanks for all that info. Gonna take some digesting - the variety of artists that recorded for the project is amazing.

Thanks, mystery! And you're very welcome. Yes, Ian produced tracks on 100+ former Motown artists while recording 700+ songs. The above "Best Of Motorcity" is but one series. There is also a Record-Producer tribute series on Holland-Dozier-Holland [[which I have), Smokey Robinson, Norman Whitfield, and Ashford & Simpson. There is also a 2-CD Varous Artists set on "Divas" [[which I have), although I discovered only yesterday there exists a "Divas Vol. 2" as well. Can't forget the "Cream Of The Crop" CD series which features Motorcity's 12" Extended Dance versions. In addition to all of the above, there are the individual-artist CDs of which I have only 24. I wish I had bought them all back in the day. You hit the nail on the head when you recently stated that the Motorcity recordings range from great to not so great. But, as you said, in between are some real gems that are worth seeking. I couldn't agree more!

[Philles/Motown Gary]

PMG/Kenny....

A wonderful effort from you both! This will hold my interest for a long while.

So...

We now have 320 of the Motorcity tracks represented on this thread.

It would be really interesting [at least, to me!] to know, from these tracks, which are considered the real top favourites by those interested in the Motorcity releases.

Maybe we could agree on a certain number of them to select as our own personal 'VERY Best Of' selection?

For example:

16....to make one equivalent CD album?
32....to make an equivalent double CD album?
or 48/50, to make an equivalent 3CD box set?

Thanks, Westgrand! Had it not been for your suggestion and encouragement, I wouldn't have had the motivation to take on such an assignment. But the more I thought about it, the more enthused I became! I already have these tracks in my collection, so why not share them! I hadn't played them in a long time. All of my favorites sounded like old friends. Even some of the tracks which I never cared for before suddenly sound good to me. Thanks again for inspiring me!

BTW, i really like your suggestion of having the fans select enough of their favorite Motorcity tracks to fill a 1-CD "Best Of" collection, a 2-CD Anthology, and a 3-CD [[or more) Box set. If Kenny promises to not kill me, I would eventually like to post my remaining Motorcity tracks as a follow-up to the above posts. I'm wondering -- we should probably wait until all of the additional tracks have been added. Or, at least, until the interested Forum members have had a chance to digest the above-posted audio links. I really do love your idea, Westgrand! I like it a LOT!!! Let me think about it for a while so we can make it fun!

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Not to take anything at all away from Ian Levine's songwriting talent, but I always presumed he had his name added to the songwriting credits, to earn additional publishing revenue, and which would offset his own financial investment?

But if, in the event, he really did contribute to the composition to all those songs, then I do have to admire his efforts....

I really have no idea about that, Westgrand, so I can't comment on it. Only the artists themselves or the co-songwriters could tell you that.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Wow, that is quite some upload. Amazing stuff. Well done!!

What is striking is that 90% of the songs were cowritten by Ian Levine. I had no idea he was suchba prolific songwriter. Did Ian concentrate on lyrics, or was the melodic structure his focus? He collaborated with Ivy Jo, Al Cleveland,
Billy Griffin, Marilyn McCleod, James Epps, Bobby Taylor, Johnny Bristol and on and on. Wow!

Thanks, Mike! I have no idea whether Ian provided the music or the lyrics. I do know, however, that Ian co-wrote and produced a wide array of highly-successful dance [[High NRG) tracks for non-Motown-related artists which he co-wrote with Fiachra Trench.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

I tend to agree with you for the most part. But it was interesting, because while I was doing the uploads of the photos, I did listen to a few of the tracks, and I found some that I did like. What was most amazing to me is that most of the artists sound absolutely wonderful, for example, Gladys Horton, Marv Johnson, Scherrie Payne of course, sound just the way you remember them as if their voices hadn’t faded at all over the years. It was also a revelation to me to learn that Billy Eckstine recorded a few tracks, including one of the standard, “Its Impossible,” with Susaye. He must’ve been very well on in years because his voice really didn’t sound like him, unless you listen very closely because his voice was weak but I have to think he was in his 80s by then. Still it’s a historical document having him on record and of course, I love Susaye. It’s a shame most of the material doesn’t rise to the level of the artists themselves, but I guess we have to be thankful that many of them got a chance to at least record again. I know I’ve said it before, but that’s why I do appreciate his work with Wanda and the Marvelettes especially.

Kenny, I knew you'd end up liking some of the tracks if you gave "em a chance.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Westgrand, to further answer your question above -- As I was telling MIKEW-UK [[above), I know that Ian co-wrote and produced a wide array of highly-successful dance [[High NRG) hits for non-Motown-related artists back in the '80s which he co-wrote with Fiachra Trench. Those were huge dance hits, so I would guess that he's a legitimate songwriter -- not just somebody who sticks his name on the credits to rack up a few extra bucks.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Thanks. Apart from about three tracks Levine's productions & compositions are awful and that's being kind. They were synthased, lacked soul and had no connection to the true Motown sound. It has also been alleged that most artists were never paid.

Copley, what are the 3 songs that you do like? Check out the 320 tracks listed above. There's bound to be something for you to add to your original 3.

If the artists didn't get paid, it wasn't because Ian skipped town with all of the profits. In fact, there were no profits to be had by anyone. Ian was broke from the entire Motorcity investment and nearly went bankrupt. After the success of his first few hits on Frances Nero, Mary Wilson, etc., he immediately ran into problems with the distributors. Without their cooperation, he couldn't get his productions released. In addition, American distributors didn't want to bank their money on older-age artists from yester-year. Finally, he arranged a deal with HOT Productions in Florida who specialized in the distribution of dance music. As luck [[or the lack thereof) would have it, HOT Productions went out of business leaving Ian pretty much penniless with all of this new music and no one able to buy it.

To add insult to injury, "fans" criticized Ian's music and pretty much kicked him to the curb. Even some of the Motowners [[artists) were criticizing him for financial losses. Financially speaking, despite Ian's dedication and hard work from start to finish, the Motorcity Records project was a financial bust. It's almost like thy say, "The road to Hell is paved with good intentions."

In defense of his music, Ian never promised to recreate "The Motown Sound". He promised to provide the former Motown artists a chance to record again on HIS label and under HIS production. And that he did for all 100+ of them -- nearly 800 tracks' worth. Under the worst possible financial conditions, he pressed on and lived up to his promise.

People complain that Ian used synthesized equipment instead of real instruments. If you think back to the day, a lot of artists on other record labels were dipping their toe in the synthesized pond. Even Motown released an album or two on The Temptations which were so fake sounding [[overly synthesized), I found them unlistenable. To my ears, Ian's synthesized music sounds far more orchestral by comparison.

Copley, if you want to verify any of the above, go into the Introducton at the very top of this thread. Open the link titled "History of Ian Levine's Motorcity Records". Scroll down just a bit and select "History". That will verify everything I just told you. The article isn't long at all, and it's very informative.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

HEY EVERYBODY!!!

Let's take Westgrandboulevard up on his suggestion and have some fun with it!! Using the 320 tracks in the "Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 1-20) listed above, create a list of your favorites tracks which you will later nominate for inclusion on your very own:

"Best of Motorcity Greatest Hits" CD [[15 Tracks)

"Best Of Motorcity 2-CD Anthology" [[30 Tracks)

"Best Of Motorcity 3-CD Box Set" [[45 Tracks)

It'll be interesting to see which tracks get the most votes!

I'll eventually start a thead for everyone to officially list your song candidates for inclusion on your recommended Motorcity "Greatest Hits", "Anthology", and "Box Set".

In the meantime, as you audition each of the 320 songs above, be making a list of your favorites. [[You don't want to accidently leave out one single, glorious note!) In fact, it sounds like so much fun, I'll be participating, too!

Again, many thanks to Westgrandboulevard for contributing this neat suggestion for us!

[westgrandboulevard]

PMG, thank you for your kind comments!

And just by the way.....simply to prove I've listened haha....it sounds to my ears that some of your links are different versions from those used on the original 'The Best Of Motorcity' CDs....?

[Philles/Motown Gary]

PMG, thank you for your kind comments!

And just by the way.....simply to prove I've listened haha....it sounds to my ears that some of your links are different versions from those used on the original 'The Best Of Motorcity' CDs....?

You're welcome, Westgrand. Regarding the music links that I used, it didn't take long to discover that Ian released more than just the basic short version and the longer, extended dance version. In some cases, his short versions have semi-extended versions, though not as long as the fully-extended dance versions. Unfortunately, as can be seen on the back covers of Vols. 1-20, running times are not available. There was no way I had the time, patience, nor the desire to manually play each and every one of the 320 CD tracks to check the timings, so I used whichever YouTube video had the best sound quality -- the 3:50 version or the 4:30 version -- but never the expanded 7:00-minute dance version.

To be perfectly honest, the thought did occur to me that if the versions I used don't quite exactly match the version on the "Best Of Motorcity [[Vols. 1-20) CD's", some purists may be outraged if they raced to their internet to order a Volume -- only to discover that the running times are different from the ones I used. I was somewhat concerned about that until I went on eBay and searched for the availability of the "Best of Motorcity" CDs. Luckily, there was only one used copy each of 3 volumes available for comparison, thank Heaven! HaHa! No one should be the wiser!

Do you have the entire "Best Of Motorcity" CD series, Westgrand, or are you hearing a lot of these tracks for the first time? If the latter, are you pleasantly surprised by the treats you're hearing? As Mysterysinger exclaimed, "There are some real gems to be discovered." And that is so true!

[mysterysinger]

Why do we seem to have started a trend of shouting when making posts on the forum? Does everything really need to be in bold?

[westgrandboulevard]

PMG....

Yes, I do actually have 'Best Of Motorcity' Volumes 1-20.....but there are real advantages to having this thread so readily available, instead of going to where the CDs are stored. All I need to do is run my eye down the Motorcity Jukebox list right here, and select a few favourites...smile

That's how I spotted the difference in, for example, 'Good Luck' by Bettye LaVette. The original version is one of my very favourites...but it's always good to have an alternative for a favourite recording. I will need to check, as I may be wrong, but I think the version you have posted is a remix from the 'You Didn't Say A Word - New Northern Soul For A New Millennium' album......

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Why do we seem to have started a trend of shouting when making posts on the forum? Does everything really need to be in bold?

Mystery, you should know me better than that! I've returned to putting my comments in bold simply because I'm having trouble seeing lately. [[Besides, isn't using ALL CAPS the usual indication of anger?) If I were angry, you would know it! I think my comments have all been pleasant and thoughtful -- at least, that's how they were intended. I really don't see how you interpreted them as anger.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

PMG....

Yes, I do actually have 'Best Of Motorcity' Volumes 1-20.....but there are real advantages to having this thread so readily available, instead of going to where the CDs are stored. All I need to do is run my eye down the Motorcity Jukebox list right here, and select a few favourites...smile

That's how I spotted the difference in, for example, 'Good Luck' by Bettye LaVette. The original version is one of my very favourites...but it's always good to have an alternative for a favourite recording. I will need to check, as I may be wrong, but I think the version you have posted is a remix from the 'You Didn't Say A Word - New Northern Soul For A New Millennium' album......

"Motorcity Jukebox!" Ha! I love it! You're right, it does make it easy for folks to listen to it. That's why I always provide an audio link when sharing a song I love with people I like.

I've gotta admit that, as much as I love Ian's Motorcity productions [[not all of them, but MANY of them), I don't recognize the difference between alternate and regular versions like I do with Motown. I know Motown like the back of my hand. The slightest difference in a Motown artist's phrasing or a difference in the instrumental backing will stick out like a sore thumb, so to speak, but I can't make the same claim about the Motorcity material. Case in point -- last night, I started listening to the individual Motorcity artist's CD's [[Frances Nero's 2 CD's) -- and those mixes are even different from the "Best Of Motorcity" versions. I'll eventually provide those versions here which I think people will enjoy, as they're much smoother and less mechanical-sounding than the "Best Of Motorcity" versions.
[/I][/I]

[westgrandboulevard]

PMG...

While on the topic of different Motorcity mixes, and Frances Nero......

Do you, or anyone reading this, have a copy of 'Uptight' various artists album, MOTCCD 64?

Track 7 is 'Nowhere To Go But Up', by Frances Nero.

There are differences between this, and the version on 'Motorcity Beach Party' various artists album, MOTCCD70.

One significant difference is on my copy of the 'Uptight' version. When the chorus reaches the line "your love is turning me over and upside down', the vocals become strangely distorted.

It is difficult to feel there is any intentional artistic merit involved. I would consider it to be a fault, but quite why it is there, or why it wasn't noticed and corrected, is a mystery to me.

Anyone else notice it?

[Boogiedown]

What a fantastic Presentation Gary.
I will be the first to admit I know little of this music except from a distance. This occurred during the, escape from music and on to other things , era of my life. I had no idea so many tunes were developed with so many artists.
Its too fantastic to be anything but a fantasy. Yet Levine did it .
why this has never been developed into a movie seems a mystery . Maybe it is just too fantastic a story to be believable.

[nice work !!:cool:]

[Philles/Motown Gary]

What a fantastic Presentation Gary.
I will be the first to admit I know little of this music except from a distance. This occurred during the, escape from music and on to other things , era of my life. I had no idea so many tunes were developed with so many artists.
Its too fantastic to be anything but a fantasy. Yet Levine did it .
why this has never been developed into a movie seems a mystery . Maybe it is just too fantastic a story to be believable.

[nice work !!:cool:]

Thanks for your kind words, Boogie. It's truly a labor of love. [[Gotta credit Kenny for his part, too. Without his technical skills, this thread wouldn't be happening. Being the dance-music lover that you are, I knew it was just a matter of time before you dropped into this thread for a visit!

Thanks to the mid-1990s HOT Productions CD Catalog, I discovered Ian's music [[both Motorcity-related and non-Motown related [[artists like Miguel Brown, Hazel Dean, etc.). His music instantly became a permanent part of my music life. I hadn't thought about it, but a movie about Ian's life is a fantastic idea! The poor guy has surely been through the wringer. It would help to clear up the bad rep that he never deserved.

In listening to the above "Motorcity Jukebox" [[as Westgrand so cleverly coined it!), have you discovered any favorites?

[mistercarter2u]

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

I have all of this series, and while a lot of the music sounds the same, there are some great hidden gems in there. I value the Motorcity tracks because they brought so many long-defunct artists out of hiding and retirement and gave them a chance, although not a very promising one, to be heard again.

I have always hated the compilations, though, as I much prefer single artists releases. I hate that the FLO's material was never officially released as an album while they were at Motorcity, and I hate that there was not enough Martha Reeves and The Vandellas material for an entire Motorcity album. I do treasure the album of Barbara Randolph cuts, and I have also enjoyed the Motorcity albums by The Marvelletes, The Contours, Kim Weston, Mary Wells, and others. It's a pick and choose game with these tracks. Some are good, some are awful. Some folks actually love those that I think stink, adn vice-versa. All-in-all, though, I appreciate the Motorcity material, and I thank you for your work in compiling it.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

PMG...

While on the topic of different Motorcity mixes, and Frances Nero......

Do you, or anyone reading this, have a copy of 'Uptight' various artists album, MOTCCD 64?

Track 7 is 'Nowhere To Go But Up', by Frances Nero.

There are differences between this, and the version on 'Motorcity Beach Party' various artists album, MOTCCD70.

One significant difference is on my copy of the 'Uptight' version. When the chorus reaches the line "your love is turning me over and upside down', the vocals become strangely distorted.

It is difficult to feel there is any intentional artistic merit involved. I would consider it to be a fault, but quite why it is there, or why it wasn't noticed and corrected, is a mystery to me.

Anyone else notice it?

Westgrand, I'm not at all familiar with Motorcity's "Uptight" nor the "Beach Party" compilations. But I do have the "Nowhere To Go But Up" track on Frances Nero's "Very Best Of" CD. I'll check it out for you later. Today, we're dealing with severe storms with the possibility of EF-2 tornadoes. Get this -- our outdoor temp is currently an unseasonably-warm 75 degrees F [[23.8 C). After the cold front comes through stirring up the severe-weather conditions today/tonight, tomorrow's high temp will be 47 F [[8.3 C) -- with the chance of -- are you ready? -- SNOW FLURRIES! Talk about crazy-ass weather! Not sure whether to wear summer shorts or a winter coat!

[Philles/Motown Gary]

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

I have all of this series, and while a lot of the music sounds the same, there are some great hidden gems in there. I value the Motorcity tracks because they brought so many long-defunct artists out of hiding and retirement and gave them a chance, although not a very promising one, to be heard again.

I have always hated the compilations, though, as I much prefer single artists releases. I hate that the FLO's material was never officially released as an album while they were at Motorcity, and I hate that there was not enough Martha Reeves and The Vandellas material for an entire Motorcity album. I do treasure the album of Barbara Randolph cuts, and I have also enjoyed the Motorcity albums by The Marvelletes, The Contours, Kim Weston, Mary Wells, and others. It's a pick and choose game with these tracks. Some are good, some are awful. Some folks actually love those that I think stink, adn vice-versa. All-in-all, though, I appreciate the Motorcity material, and I thank you for your work in compiling it.

You're very welcome, Mistercarter. And thank YOU for your kind words! You're absolutely correct in stating that some tracks are gems while some are far from it. The songs that I don't care for are the ones that tend to sound alike. Ian has some wonderful styles in his various productions. However, there are some tracks in which he uses a certain chord-progression that I hate. It rubs me the wrong way every time I hear it! All of his artists have recorded at least one track using this chord-progression. [[I lovingly nick-name them "half-assed" chords! I don't know how to explain it, but it's a chord progression that neither Phil Spector nor Motown ever used.)

I do love the Various Artists comps, as they're what inspired me to buy Ian's individual-artist CDs of which I have 24. Now I wish I had bought them all.

I know what you mean about some people's favorites being the ones that are my least favorites! Now I'm almost afraid to tell you MY favorites! I will, however, reveal my favorites one day soon. In the meantime, here's a quick clue -- I find that I especially love Saundra Edwards, Barbara Randolph, and Pat Lewis. I would almost kill for a CD of Barbara Randolph's. Now that there's finally one available, it's not on CD.

It's true that Ian never released an entire album on the FLOS. However, are you aware of the 18-track "Supreme Ladies" CD?

Thanks for dropping in! What are some of your favorite tracks? I would love to know!

[mistercarter2u]

You're very welcome, Mistercarter. And thank YOU for your kind words! You're absolutely correct in stating that some tracks are gems while some are far from it. The songs that I don't care for are the ones that tend to sound alike. Ian has some wonderful styles in his various productions. However, there are some tracks in which he uses a certain chord-progression that I hate. It rubs me the wrong way every time I hear it! All of his artists have recorded at least one track using this chord-progression. [[I lovingly nick-name them "half-assed" chords! I don't know how to explain it, but it's a chord progression that neither Phil Spector nor Motown ever used.)

I do love the Various Artists comps, as they're what inspired me to buy Ian's individual-artist CDs of which I have 24. Now I wish I had bought them all.

I know what you mean about some people's favorites being the ones that are my least favorites! Now I'm almost afraid to tell you MY favorites! I will, however, reveal my favorites one day soon. In the meantime, here's a quick clue -- I find that I especially love Saundra Edwards, Barbara Randolph, and Pat Lewis. I would almost kill for a CD of Barbara Randolph's. Now that there's finally one available, it's not on CD.

It's true that Ian never released an entire album on the FLOS. However, are you aware of the 18-track "Supreme Ladies" CD?

Thanks for dropping in! What are some of your favorite tracks? I would love to know!


I have the Barbara Randolph CD [["The Very Best of...) that was sold on Amazon a few years back, It is only available as streaming now.... It is probably my favorite Motorcity album, that is aside from the tracks recorded by Jean,Scherrie, and Lynda [[Supremes). I also have a great bootleg CD - from the guy in Germany who used to put out a ton of Motown material - of the FLO's unreleased Motorcity "Bouncing Back" album, and I love that one. That material has been repackaged about a zillion times.

Another favorite is "Step Into My Shoes" by Martha Reeves and The Vandellas, and I like msot of Brenda Holloway's MC recordings. I also love the 5th Dimension's version of "More Love" and Rare Earth's "Love Is Here And Now You're Gone." Oh, and all of Barbara McNair's MC songs....

[Philles/Motown Gary]

I have the Barbara Randolph CD [["The Very Best of...) that was sold on Amazon a few years back, It is only available as streaming now.... It is probably my favorite Motorcity album, that is aside from the tracks recorded by Jean,Scherrie, and Lynda [[Supremes). I also have a great bootleg CD - from the guy in Germany who used to put out a ton of Motown material - of the FLO's unreleased Motorcity "Bouncing Back" album, and I love that one. That material has been repackaged about a zillion times.

Another favorite is "Step Into My Shoes" by Martha Reeves and The Vandellas, and I like msot of Brenda Holloway's MC recordings. I also love the 5th Dimension's version of "More Love" and Rare Earth's "Love Is Here And Now You're Gone." Oh, and all of Barbara McNair's MC songs....

Mistercarter, I went onto Amazon and found the Barbara Randolph CD you were telling me about. I see that it was once available as a CD-R but is now only available as streaming. Damn! I can't believe it was there all along and I didn't even know it. If a song is streaming, can it be downloaded as an mp3 and burned to CD?

I'm surprised to see that the track that first made me love Barabara Randolph's Motorcity productions isn't included on your "Very Best Of" CD. The track is "Chasing The Hurt Away". On the Motorcity Jukebox which I provided above, go to "Best Of Motorcity" [[Vol. 2), Track 10. The track is really pretty, and the female back-up vocals are gorgeous.

BTW, I agree with everything you said except for "Step Into My Shoes", I prefer The Andantes' version.

[westgrandboulevard]

[/QUOTE] I'm surprised to see that the track that first made me love Barabara Randolph's Motorcity productions isn't included on your "Very Best Of" CD. The track is "Chasing The Hurt Away". On the Motorcity Jukebox which I provided above, go to "Best Of Motorcity" [[Vol. 2), Track 10. The track is really pretty, and the female back-up vocals are gorgeous. [/QUOTE]

I think those back-up vocals are the voice of Pat Lewis, but multi-tracked...often found on the Motorcity recordings. Most of the backgrounds were arranged by Pat. Love that echo....

Carolyn Crawford also used her voice for backgrounds on her own Motorcity recordings.

And a version of 'Chasing The Hurt Away' was, I think, also recorded by Jake Jacas....who was, at least, co-writer.....

[brother_love]

When it was suggested that I start a MOTORCITY RECORDS thread, I jumped at the chance! I hope you'll enjoy it as much as I'm enjoying compiling it!

I'm starting with the Various Artists "Best Of Motorcity" [[Vols. 1-20) series which were released as compilations between 1994 and 1997.

II need to express a HUGE thanks to Kenny [[Kenneth) for uploading this project for me.
[/B]
Best Regards,
PHILLES/MOTOWN GARY

-------------------------------

A HISTORY OF IAN LEVINE'S MOTORCITY RECORDS PROJECT [[courtesy of WIKI). [[Open the link and select History.)

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motorcity_Records



MOTORCITY RECORDS ALBUM DISCOGRAPHY [[courtesy of WIKI)

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motorcity_Records_albums_discography



MOTORCITY RECORDS 12" SINGLE DISCOGRAPHY [[courtesy of WIKI).

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motorcity_Records_singles_discography

The first five compilations were released in the on Quality Records, in 1990. This series was called Motor City Dance Party and consisted of various Motor City artists.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

The first five compilations were released in the on Quality Records, in 1990. This series was called Motor City Dance Party and consisted of various Motor City artists.

Hi Brother_love! Yeah, I've noticed that some of Ian's early releases had been on different labels. Even his gargantuan Motorcity project had started out on the Nightmare label before renaming it Motorcity. [[Just between you and me, I can't imagine why Ian -- nor anyone else, for that matter -- would title their record label such a negative, derogatory name like Nightmare -- especially for a project as important as the Motorcity project was to him. It kinda makes you wonder if his subconsciously naming it Nightmare was an omen of bad things to come while eventually leading to the demise of the Motorcity label. I know, it sounds paranoid and far-fetched, but who knows?)

[reese]

The first five compilations were released in the on Quality Records, in 1990. This series was called Motor City Dance Party and consisted of various Motor City artists.

Before the five-cd series, Quality also released a 12" called DON'T FORGET THE MOTOR CITY by Big Wheel and the Motor Mixers. It featured snippets of recordings by Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, Kim Weston, etc.

Quality also released a Mary Wells cd, KEEPING MY MIND ON LOVE. Some of the proceeds were to go to the Mary Wells fund.

[144man]

Not to take anything at all away from Ian Levine's songwriting talent, but I always presumed he had his name added to the songwriting credits, to earn additional publishing revenue, and which would offset his own financial investment?

But if, in the event, he really did contribute to the composition to all those songs, then I do have to admire his efforts....

I don't know if this was a normal way of working, but on "Flight L-O-V-E", Frances Nero was given the instrumental track to take home with her and she had to write the lyrics for it overnight.

[reese]

...

[[Just between you and me, I can't imagine why Ian -- nor anyone else, for that matter -- would title their record label such a negative, derogatory name like Nightmare -- especially for a project as important as the Motorcity project was to him. It kinda makes you wonder if his subconsciously naming it Nightmare was an omen of bad things to come while eventually leading to the demise of the Motorcity label. I know, it sounds paranoid and far-fetched, but who knows?)

I believe he named the label Nightmare Records after one of his favorite records, "Like a Nightmare" by the Andantes.

[144man]

I believe he named the label Nightmare Records after one of his favorite records, "Like a Nightmare" by the Andantes.

...and I think he actually owned a rare V.I.P. single of it at some stage.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

PMG...

While on the topic of different Motorcity mixes, and Frances Nero......

Do you, or anyone reading this, have a copy of 'Uptight' various artists album, MOTCCD 64?

Track 7 is 'Nowhere To Go But Up', by Frances Nero.

There are differences between this, and the version on 'Motorcity Beach Party' various artists album, MOTCCD70.

One significant difference is on my copy of the 'Uptight' version. When the chorus reaches the line "your love is turning me over and upside down', the vocals become strangely distorted.

It is difficult to feel there is any intentional artistic merit involved. I would consider it to be a fault, but quite why it is there, or why it wasn't noticed and corrected, is a mystery to me.

Anyone else notice it?

Westgrand, I'm sorry to keep you waiting. I have Frances Nero's "Nowhere To Go But Up" on her "Very Best Of" CD, Track 8. Regarding the line "Your love is turning me over and upside-down", there is definitely something going on there, but I don't think it's distortion. To my ears, it sounds like male voices singing in a very high register -- probably as a result of electronic gadgetry. For whatever reason, Ian decided to have that line of the recurring chorus executed in a form of "cutesy". I may be wrong, but that's my take on it.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

I believe he named the label Nightmare Records after one of his favorite records, "Like a Nightmare" by the Andantes.

Hi, Reese! Oh, that's why he did it. Okay. Boogie suggested that they should do a movie about Ian's life in the record business. I could go for that -- or at least an autobiography -- not unlike the behind-the-scenes Motown books that we've cherished since the 1980's. A book like that would have explained why Ian named his label Nightmare, as well as so much more.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

I don't know if this was a normal way of working, but on "Flight L-O-V-E", Frances Nero was given the instrumental track to take home with her and she had to write the lyrics for it overnight.

Hi, 144man! I did not know that. I love learning about the behind-the-scenes happenings at our favorite record companies. Putting Frances under such pressure -- overnight, no less -- surely must have made her a nervous wreck. Was she even a lyricist? Without looking it up, I don't recall.

[mysterysinger]

I would suggest that Ian Levine is a genius for all the work he put into creating Nightmare and Motorcity including having the wherewithal to make it all happen, his phenominal songwriting skills in partnership with others, his awareness of his market and his production skills - who else could have done all that in such a relatively short time?

Ok not everything could be or would ever be to everyone's taste but there are some quite classy productions there all things considered. I also appreciate the music more as I age and threads such as this only help that recognition.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

I would suggest that Ian Levine is a genius for all the work he put into creating Nightmare and Motorcity including having the wherewithal to make it all happen, his phenominal songwriting skills in partnership with others, his awareness of his market and his production skills - who else could have done all that in such a relatively short time?

Ok not everything could be or would ever be to everyone's taste but there are some quite classy productions there all things considered. I also appreciate the music more as I age and threads such as this only help that recognition.

I agree with you 100%, Mystery. In fact, over the years, whenever I got a new CD, I've always taken a posted note and jotted down a list of the tracks that I like as well as the tracks which I don't particularly care for. You wouldn't believe how much time this simple-yet-efficient system prevents me from having to re-review the disc all over again upon my next playing. Upon re-evaluation, it's amazing how many tracks have literally leaped from the "don't like" column to the "Love It" column! Since I joined SD in 2014, I've noticed that your taste in music is very close to mine. If I get a chance tomorrow, I'll prepare a short list of some of my favorite Ian Levine Motorcity compositions and/or productions which I love. I'll bet you almost anything that our tastes will match on every one of them!

[westgrandboulevard]

Westgrand, I'm sorry to keep you waiting. I have Frances Nero's "Nowhere To Go But Up" on her "Very Best Of" CD, Track 8. Regarding the line "Your love is turning me over and upside-down", there is definitely something going on there, but I don't think it's distortion. To my ears, it sounds like male voices singing in a very high register -- probably as a result of electronic gadgetry. For whatever reason, Ian decided to have that line of the recurring chorus executed in a form of "cutesy". I may be wrong, but that's my take on it.

PMG, no, what you are hearing there is the normal version. It is Billy Griffin and Jake Jacas singing in light falsetto. You will hear them singing in the same tones on quite a number of Motorcity tracks, including those with their own lead vocals.

The track on 'Uptight' CD is the only example where the distortion on the sound is present. I have not heard it on any other source. I remember taking the disc back to the record shop....they played it through their own speakers, and couldn't understand it. They tried another copy....still there....so a fault in the manufacturing process.

Or, I did wonder, if it was a deliberate, albeit strange touch-of-sabotage move....just to add a quirky distinction, to catch the ear....

[westgrandboulevard]

The songs that I don't care for are the ones that tend to sound alike. Ian has some wonderful styles in his various productions. However, there are some tracks in which he uses a certain chord-progression that I hate. It rubs me the wrong way every time I hear it! All of his artists have recorded at least one track using this chord-progression. [[I lovingly nick-name them "half-assed" chords! I don't know how to explain it, but it's a chord progression that neither Phil Spector nor Motown ever used.)

Can you quote some examples......?

[carlo]

This thread is an amazing resource. Thank you Philles/Motown Gary and Kenny for your hard work on this! I spent some time last night going through many of these tracks that I had not heard before, or had not heard in quite some time. I was reminded of how great Bettye LaVette's performances are, on these tracks. There were some tracks by Lynda Laurence that were also strong, in my opinion. These Motorcity recordings were definitely a mixed bag, but there are highlights throughout.

[Boogiedown]

I would suggest that Ian Levine is a genius for all the work he put into creating Nightmare and Motorcity including having the wherewithal to make it all happen, his phenominal songwriting skills in partnership with others, his awareness of his market and his production skills - who else could have done all that in such a relatively short time?

Ok not everything could be or would ever be to everyone's taste but there are some quite classy productions there all things considered. I also appreciate the music more as I age and threads such as this only help that recognition.

What is the total track number ? 800 plus ? Were some released as singles and promos sent to radio stations for play ? Or was top 40 over with by then ?
What was the time frame of his project ?

so surely old Motown hot shots were aware of this endeavor …. Did any reach out to offer anything in the way of support? Berry Gordy specifically , did he express any interest ? Did he reach out to Ian ? Did he offer to help in the financing or any of the logistics ? or be supportive in any way ??

[kenneth]

This thread is an amazing resource. Thank you Philles/Motown Gary and Kenny for your hard work on this! I spent some time last night going through many of these tracks that I had not heard before, or had not heard in quite some time. I was reminded of how great Bettye LaVette's performances are, on these tracks. There were some tracks by Lynda Laurence that were also strong, in my opinion. These Motorcity recordings were definitely a mixed bag, but there are highlights throughout.

You're welcome, Carlo. Gary did all the research and locating all the tracks/links to the YouTube videos, and everything is from his collection. I just did the grunt work of the uploads. It's much easier to do from a laptop or desktop than from a phone.

[grapevine]

...my fave Motorcity sound...!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ks-rpZXJens

Grape :)

[grapevine]

...my fave Ian Levine sound...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i2aEqWlq31E

Grape :)

[Philles/Motown Gary]

I'm surprised to see that the track that first made me love Barabara Randolph's Motorcity productions isn't included on your "Very Best Of" CD. The track is "Chasing The Hurt Away". On the Motorcity Jukebox which I provided above, go to "Best Of Motorcity" [[Vol. 2), Track 10. The track is really pretty, and the female back-up vocals are gorgeous. [/QUOTE]

I think those back-up vocals are the voice of Pat Lewis, but multi-tracked...often found on the Motorcity recordings. Most of the backgrounds were arranged by Pat. Love that echo....

Carolyn Crawford also used her voice for backgrounds on her own Motorcity recordings.

And a version of 'Chasing The Hurt Away' was, I think, also recorded by Jake Jacas....who was, at least, co-writer.....[/QUOTE]

Westgrand, I'm at a total loss at trying to determine anything about Ian's back-up vocalists. Since discovering his Motorcity/Motown project, I had automatically assumed that Ian would use The Andantes to back up his artists, yet I have yet to recognize their special harmonic, operatic "blend" that Louvain, Jackie & Marlene achieved at Motown.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

PMG, no, what you are hearing there is the normal version. It is Billy Griffin and Jake Jacas singing in light falsetto. You will hear them singing in the same tones on quite a number of Motorcity tracks, including those with their own lead vocals.

The track on 'Uptight' CD is the only example where the distortion on the sound is present. I have not heard it on any other source. I remember taking the disc back to the record shop....they played it through their own speakers, and couldn't understand it. They tried another copy....still there....so a fault in the manufacturing process.

Or, I did wonder, if it was a deliberate, albeit strange touch-of-sabotage move....just to add a quirky distinction, to catch the ear....

Westgrand, have you checked on YouTube to see if the version to which you're referring is included? If it is, please post the link here so that we, too, can hear the distorted passage.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Can you quote some examples......?

I'm afraid to, Westgrand. If I list them, it would be just my luck to offend somebody who might demand, "PLEASE! How DARE you attack my favorite songs!" Or "Your taste is all in your mouth, Pal!", or, "Man, you've got a tin ear!"

[Philles/Motown Gary]

This thread is an amazing resource. Thank you Philles/Motown Gary and Kenny for your hard work on this! I spent some time last night going through many of these tracks that I had not heard before, or had not heard in quite some time. I was reminded of how great Bettye LaVette's performances are, on these tracks. There were some tracks by Lynda Laurence that were also strong, in my opinion. These Motorcity recordings were definitely a mixed bag, but there are highlights throughout.

Thanks, Carlo. Your positive response and the compliments and enthusiasm of others is just the inspiration I need to submit Motorcity Part 2 which will be a few more Various Artists compilations, followed by Part 3 -- the Individual Artist CDs. I finally worked up the courage to ask Kenny if he would be willing to upload the remainder of the Motorcity project for me. Of course, he said, "Why sure!" To quote The Marvelettes, "He's A Good Guy [[Yes He Is)"!

[Philles/Motown Gary]

What is the total track number ? 800 plus ? Were some released as singles and promos sent to radio stations for play ? Or was top 40 over with by then ?
What was the time frame of his project ?

so surely old Motown hot shots were aware of this endeavor …. Did any reach out to offer anything in the way of support? Berry Gordy specifically , did he express any interest ? Did he reach out to Ian ? Did he offer to help in the financing or any of the logistics ? or be supportive in any way ??

Boogie, between 1987 and 1997, 108 former Motown artists recorded 770 tunes under the production expertise of Ian Levine -- the first being Kim Weston's "Signal Your Intention", and the last being Edwin Starr's "Darling Darling Baby". The remainder of your questions I have no idea about. I doubt if Berry contributed to Ian's finances, as by the mid-to-late '90s, Ian had gone broke with the Motorcity project -- nearly bankrupt, in fact. For further details, check out the *History Of Motorcity Records" at the very top of this thread.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

C O R R E C T I O N

Please note that in the "Motorcity Jukebox" above, the audio link for The Fifth Dimension's "More Love" [[Vol. 3, Track 10), is incorrect and should be as follows:

FIFTH DIMENSION
"More Love"
https://youtu.be/IOrM8KoWsHY

Thank you. If you should notice any other audio-link inaccuracy, please let us know. Again, thank you.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

...my fave Motorcity sound...!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ks-rpZXJens

Grape :)

Grapevine, I love "Timeless", too! It's a shame Carolyn didn't find greater success with Motown. I really like her a lot.

[soren1974]

Boogie, between 1987 and 1997, 108 former Motown artists recorded 770 tunes under the production expertise of Ian Levine -- the first being Kim Weston's "Signal Your Intention", and the last being Edwin Starr's "Darling Darling Baby".

That should be 1987 to 1992 when it all came crashing down. Pat Lewis recorded another bulk of tracks around the mid-90s that never came out, and then around 1998 she recorded 25 Motown-covers and 30 Northern Soul-covers with [[with Ian) and Brenda Holloway also recorded 30 Northern Soul-covers plus one original song Be A Man [[the latter would belatedly be released on the 2CD My Love Is Your Love along with her original Motorcity-recordings. Unfortunately, on that CD the demo version of Be A Man, sung by Gaynor Ellen, got included by mistake instead of Brenda's). So those numbers add onto the original 770 tunes recorded between 1987-92.

[soren1974]

They should do a movie about Ian's life in the record business. I could go for that -- or at least an autobiography -- not unlike the behind-the-scenes Motown books that we've cherished since the 1980's. A book like that would have explained why Ian named his label Nightmare, as well as so much more.

Ian actually wrote his biography called LEAP YEARS in 2018 which he gave out free copies of to those of us who attended his birthday that year. It makes up for extremely interesting reading - his passion for music obviously takes up a lot of the pages, but Doctor Who also does, plus his vast Jewish family tree-research, as well as Ian's passion for boys in white rugby shorts! It is written in his usual brash fashion so he already ruled out approaching a publishing company for it as some of the details were too graphic, and his opinions of the likes of Simon Cowell and Gary Barlow would have to be watered down. It is a book that shows a life lived to its fulles. He has produced about 3000 recordings since 1975 which is a phenomenal achievement.

20382

[westgrandboulevard]

[/QUOTE] Westgrand, I'm at a total loss at trying to determine anything about Ian's back-up vocalists. Since discovering his Motorcity/Motown project, I had automatically assumed that Ian would use The Andantes to back up his artists, yet I have yet to recognize their special harmonic, operatic "blend" that Louvain, Jackie & Marlene achieved at Motown.[/QUOTE]

A lot of the Motorcity female background voices were recorded here in the UK.

I have formed the impression that background vocals by The Andantes [Louvain, Marlene and Jackie] on Motorcity recordings are relatively few. I would have to check Louvain's solo album, but don't recall clearly hearing them even there.

It seems that whenever any title is credited to 'The Andantes' it usually features the voice of Pat Lewis, either multi-tracked, or singing with other voices...and which may include the original Andantes. I would have to carefully check that out.

The 'Step Into My Shoes' background voices on both Martha and Pat's versions sound to me more like two voices only, and likely Rosalind and Annette.

Of the few occasions when I feel I do hear Louvain, Marlene and Jackie [maybe also with Pat?], here are two....

Frances Nero's "Footsteps Following Me"......

and Martha's 'Heat Wave', more prominently on the original 'with string sound' Motorcity version [apart from the rather obvious one-two-one-two drum machine, I really like this one], than the later reworked one......

[soren1974]

My 25 Best would be [[random order and original songs only)

Billy Griffin - Technicolour
Frances Nero - Footsteps Following Me
Karen Pree - Girl With A Broken Heart
The FLOs - Hit And Miss
Jake Jacas - Forever In The Groove
Saundra Edwards - Tow-Away Zone
Barbara Randolph - Chasing The Hurt Away
Freda Payne - Only Minutes Away
Carolyn Crawford - Which Way Do I Turn
Barbara McNair - Face To Face With Love
The Elgins - You've Got Emotion
Ronnie McNeir - Take The First Step
J. J. & Ortheia Barnes - Send Some Love
Joe Stubbs - Smoke's In The Air
Linda Griner - Not This Time
Billy Griffin - Angel
Susaye Greene - Stop! I Need You Now
The Contours - Running In Circles
Pat Lewis - See You When I Get There
Barbara Randolph - Breaking Into My Heart
Hattie Littles - Waiting For The Day
Hattie Littles - Never Say Never
The Originals - Take The Only Way Out
Frances Nero - Right Up To The Limit
Liz Lands - Starting All Over Again

[westgrandboulevard]

My 25 Best would be [[random order and original songs only)

Billy Griffin - Technicolour
Frances Nero - Footsteps Following Me
Karen Pree - Girl With A Broken Heart
The FLOs - Hit And Miss
Jake Jacas - Forever In The Groove
Saundra Edwards - Tow-Away Zone
Barbara Randolph - Chasing The Hurt Away
Freda Payne - Only Minutes Away
Carolyn Crawford - Which Way Do I Turn
Barbara McNair - Face To Face With Love
The Elgins - You've Got Emotion
Ronnie McNeir - Take The First Step
J. J. & Ortheia Barnes - Send Some Love
Joe Stubbs - Smoke's In The Air
Linda Griner - Not This Time
Billy Griffin - Angel
Susaye Greene - Stop! I Need You Now
The Contours - Running In Circles
Pat Lewis - See You When I Get There
Barbara Randolph - Breaking Into My Heart
Hattie Littles - Waiting For The Day
Hattie Littles - Never Say Never
The Originals - Take The Only Way Out
Frances Nero - Right Up To The Limit
Liz Lands - Starting All Over Again

Soren1974,

Oh, I'm seeing some real favourites for my own list right there.....

And so good to see Joe Stubbs 'Smoke's In The Air' included [sometimes titled 'Smoke In The Air', I've noticed..].

I have often wondered about that strong female background voice on the chorus [think she also features on 'All Over The World', and several others]...would you know if that is Tracey Ackerman? Otherwise I guess it has to be either Jill Saward or Jackie Rawe.....

[westgrandboulevard]

PMG....

Re: backgrounds by The Andantes.....

Try Joe Stubbs..... 'You're My Eternity', and possibly 'Standing In The Shadows Of Love'....

I think Louvain, Marlene and Jackie may well be there on at least one of those tracks, and probably joined by Pat Lewis.......

[Philles/Motown Gary]

PMG....

Re: backgrounds by The Andantes.....

Try Joe Stubbs..... 'You're My Eternity', and possibly 'Standing In The Shadows Of Love'....

I think Louvain, Marlene and Jackie may well be there on at least one of those tracks, and probably joined by Pat Lewis.......

Westgrand, they're closer to their Motown harmonies -- especially on "Standing In The Shadows Of Love" [[which, BTW, is a great cover version!), but their blend is still not quite the same. Compare their vocals here with their vocals on Marvin Gaye & Kim Weston's "Heaven Sent You [[I Know)" from their "Take Two" album. In the song's introduction, that's The Andantes' angelic harmonic "blend" I'm referring to. If Pat Lewis has been singing with them on the Motorcity recordings, that could very well explain why their blend is not the same. All it takes is the addition or subtraction of one voice to change the blend. [[The only group I've ever heard maintain their harmony blend despite personnel changes is The Three Degrees. Those girls are truly fantastic! Regardless of changing goup members, they somehow always manage to sound like Sheila, Valerie & Fayette -- my favorites.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

...my fave Ian Levine sound...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i2aEqWlq31E

Grape :)
Grape, I love this record! Who is Ebony Alleyne? Is she one of Ian's more recent artists?

[Philles/Motown Gary]

That should be 1987 to 1992 when it all came crashing down. Pat Lewis recorded another bulk of tracks around the mid-90s that never came out, and then around 1998 she recorded 25 Motown-covers and 30 Northern Soul-covers with [[with Ian) and Brenda Holloway also recorded 30 Northern Soul-covers plus one original song Be A Man [[the latter would belatedly be released on the 2CD My Love Is Your Love along with her original Motorcity-recordings. Unfortunately, on that CD the demo version of Be A Man, sung by Gaynor Ellen, got included by mistake instead of Brenda's). So those numbers add onto the original 770 tunes recorded between 1987-92.

Hi Soren, I went by the years that WIKI quoted. [[See the "History Of Motorcity Records" at the top of this thread.) Had I discovered Ian's music sooner, I would have known the discrepancy in the years of operation. I discovered Ian in the mid-to-late '90s -- including his Motorcity artists as well as his non-Motown-related artists. I wish I had discovered him sooner -- much sooner.

Thanks for the correction.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Ian actually wrote his biography called LEAP YEARS in 2018 which he gave out free copies of to those of us who attended his birthday that year. It makes up for extremely interesting reading - his passion for music obviously takes up a lot of the pages, but Doctor Who also does, plus his vast Jewish family tree-research, as well as Ian's passion for boys in white rugby shorts! It is written in his usual brash fashion so he already ruled out approaching a publishing company for it as some of the details were too graphic, and his opinions of the likes of Simon Cowell and Gary Barlow would have to be watered down. It is a book that shows a life lived to its fulles. He has produced about 3000 recordings since 1975 which is a phenomenal achievement.

20382

Soren, I'd love a copy of his book. I just checked eBay and Amazon. Unfortunately, to no avail. I'll keep my eyes open for a stray copy. Thanks for the heads up!

[gman]

the Motorcity project was a blessing to fans of everything Motown, and fans of the individual performers...most of who hadn't been recorded in a long time....I think it was a great effort, and a dream for Ian....but I also think he hopefully way over estimated the publics desire for the product...perhaps he moved along at the vast pace it did take because tracking these folks down was probably difficult...and many were not in the best of shape.
I think overall, Ian will be remembered more for his non Motown related contributions to HiNrG club music....esp High Energy and So Many Men. A few other records found much bigger club play success in Europe than the USA.
It would have been wonderful and no doubt a boost to the entire project had a MAJOR comeback been the result of the project...a/k/a Tina Turner and Cher...both had historic comebacks, and ones that are very rarely sustainable. Unfortunately, the project did not introduce any unheralded superstars, or reintroduce a newer and widespread public to the former ones.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

My 25 Best would be [[random order and original songs only)

Billy Griffin - Technicolour
Frances Nero - Footsteps Following Me
Karen Pree - Girl With A Broken Heart
The FLOs - Hit And Miss
Jake Jacas - Forever In The Groove
Saundra Edwards - Tow-Away Zone
Barbara Randolph - Chasing The Hurt Away
Freda Payne - Only Minutes Away
Carolyn Crawford - Which Way Do I Turn
Barbara McNair - Face To Face With Love
The Elgins - You've Got Emotion
Ronnie McNeir - Take The First Step
J. J. & Ortheia Barnes - Send Some Love
Joe Stubbs - Smoke's In The Air
Linda Griner - Not This Time
Billy Griffin - Angel
Susaye Greene - Stop! I Need You Now
The Contours - Running In Circles
Pat Lewis - See You When I Get There
Barbara Randolph - Breaking Into My Heart
Hattie Littles - Waiting For The Day
Hattie Littles - Never Say Never
The Originals - Take The Only Way Out
Frances Nero - Right Up To The Limit
Liz Lands - Starting All Over Again

All good choices, Soren! Anyone else ready to share their list of favorites?

[Philles/Motown Gary]

the Motorcity project was a blessing to fans of everything Motown, and fans of the individual performers...most of who hadn't been recorded in a long time....I think it was a great effort, and a dream for Ian....but I also think he hopefully way over estimated the publics desire for the product...perhaps he moved along at the vast pace it did take because tracking these folks down was probably difficult...and many were not in the best of shape.
I think overall, Ian will be remembered more for his non Motown related contributions to HiNrG club music....esp High Energy and So Many Men. A few other records found much bigger club play success in Europe than the USA.
It would have been wonderful and no doubt a boost to the entire project had a MAJOR comeback been the result of the project...a/k/a Tina Turner and Cher...both had historic comebacks, and ones that are very rarely sustainable. Unfortunately, the project did not introduce any unheralded superstars, or reintroduce a newer and widespread public to the former ones.

All good points, gman. It hadn't occurred to me that the reason Ian recorded so much was to capture their vocals "now" while the getting was good -- especially for the artists who were on their last legs, so to speak..

Another reason for the financial failure of the Motorcity project was the failure of the distributors to get the records out to the people. Ian released all of these recordings, but no one was able to buy them. One thing is for sure -- despite the financial failure, Ian's Motorcity project was an artistic success. As we've all been agreeing, there are many gems to be found within his massive array of productions.

It's true that the majority of John Q. Public wouldn't recognize many of these artists. Kenny and I were discussing just the other day that, even as life-long Motown fans, there were some Motorcity artists who even WE weren't familiar with, i.e., Vermettya Royster of Sisters Love; Jake Jacas [[a 1980's Motown artist), etc.

I love Ian's 1980's non-Motown productions, especially Miguel Brown's. I made it a point to buy as many of them as I could, and love nearly all of them. When we finish Ian's individual-artist Motorcity CD's, I may consider covering Ian's dance/club artists. Heaven knows, I've got the CDs in my collection to back it up, and I know a lot of people who would appreciate it. Plus, turning on new fans to Ian's Dance/Club music would be fun!

[Philles/Motown Gary]

GARY: Westgrand, I'm at a total loss at trying to determine anything about Ian's back-up vocalists. Since discovering his Motorcity/Motown project, I had automatically assumed that Ian would use The Andantes to back up his artists, yet I have yet to recognize their special harmonic, operatic "blend" that Louvain, Jackie & Marlene achieved at Motown.[/QUOTE]

----------------
WESTGRAND: I have formed the impression that background vocals by The Andantes [Louvain, Marlene and Jackie] on Motorcity recordings are relatively few. I would have to check Louvain's solo album, but don't recall clearly hearing them even there.

It seems that whenever any title is credited to 'The Andantes' it usually features the voice of Pat Lewis, either multi-tracked, or singing with other voices...and which may include the original Andantes. I would have to carefully check that out.

---------‐---------
GARY: Ah! Thanks, Westgrand! THAT's what I needed to hear! Now I KNOW it's not just me.[/QUOTE]

[reese]

Westgrand, they're closer to their Motown harmonies -- especially on "Standing In The Shadows Of Love" [[which, BTW, is a great cover version!), but their blend is still not quite the same. Compare their vocals here with their vocals on Marvin Gaye & Kim Weston's "Heaven Sent You [[I Know)" from their "Take Two" album. In the song's introduction, that's The Andantes' angelic harmonic "blend" I'm referring to. If Pat Lewis has been singing with them on the Motorcity recordings, that could very well explain why their blend is not the same. All it takes is the addition or subtraction of one voice to change the blend. [[The only group I've ever heard maintain their harmony blend despite personnel changes is The Three Degrees. Those girls are truly fantastic! Regardless of changing goup members, they somehow always manage to sound like Sheila, Valerie & Fayette -- my favorites.

The Motorcity compilation album GIRL GROUPS OF THE MOTORCITY features a photo of the Andantes on the back. It shows them as a quartet featuring Louvain, Marlene, Jackie, and Pat.

[westgrandboulevard]

PMG,

I do agree with you that the 'angelic' harmonies of The Andantes on earlier Motown recordings did not continue to be heard throughout the classic years.

The sound of The Andantes became more homogeneous, less distinctive, and they were literally faded more 'into the background' of the recordings..also with their voices more frequently heard singing in unison. Perhaps that was due to increased demand, and it simply saved session time to do it that way. Also, other combinations of female background voices were being used.

I completely agree with your selected example of 'Heaven Sent You, I Know', by Marvin & Kim.

There are of course, so many more...such as Kim's 'A Thrill A Moment'.....

My own favourite 'jaw drop' moment of theirs is on Tommy Good's 'Baby I Miss You'. It features their usual honeyed harmonies, high up in the mix...and then they break out later in the song with "Oh Yeaaahhh!". You can choose to hear all those three voices separately, or as their close harmony....but as far as background vocals go, for me that is as good as it gets.....:)

[Philles/Motown Gary]

PMG,

I do agree with you that the 'angelic' harmonies of The Andantes on earlier Motown recordings did not continue to be heard throughout the classic years.

The sound of The Andantes became more homogeneous, less distinctive, and they were literally faded more 'into the background' of the recordings..also with their voices more frequently heard singing in unison. Perhaps that was due to increased demand, and it simply saved session time to do it that way. Also, other combinations of female background voices were being used.

I completely agree with your selected example of 'Heaven Sent You, I Know', by Marvin & Kim.

There are of course, so many more...such as Kim's 'A Thrill A Moment'.....

My own favourite 'jaw drop' moment of theirs is on Tommy Good's 'Baby I Miss You'. It features their usual honeyed harmonies, high up in the mix...and then they break out later in the song with "Oh Yeaaahhh!". You can choose to hear all those three voices separately, or as their close harmony....but as far as background vocals go, for me that is as good as it gets.....:)

Absolutely, Westgrand! And also Tommy Good's "I've Gotta Get Away"! The girls shine on that one as well!

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Here's my list of favorite Ian Levine Motorcity productions. Although it's nowhere near complete, it's a great start in revealing some of those hidden Ian Levine gems with you.

[NOTE - I get a kick out of the way Ian assigned the hottest dance tracks to the older gals like Orthea Barnes, Hattie Littles, Liz Lands, and Barbara McNair! What's even cooler is the way the ladies had no trouble keeping up -- none whatsoevr!]

1) ORTHEA BARNES - "Love Changes"
https://youtu.be/0ZQlBdYjJ0s

2) BARBARA RANDOLPH - "Chasing The Hurt Away"
https://youtu.be/0M3MZdral8U

3) BARBARA McNAIR - "Talking In My Sleep"
https://youtu.be/wyKGt83Nyx0

4) THE ELGINS - "Look Up To The Sky"
https://youtu.be/YZvtXq3rR1M

5) PAT LEWIS - "Baby I'm Cool"
https://youtu.be/xP9Fn2-Is9I

6) SCHERRIE PAYNE - "I'm Still Waiting" [[Yes, it's Diana's song!)
https://youtu.be/afOzROpkAy4

7) HATTIE LITTLES - "Dancing In The Key Of Life"
https://youtu.be/Mb0WlgxWbNQ

8) RARE EARTH - "Love Is Here And Now You're Gone"
https://youtu.be/nSS8y1M2lnY

9) BLINKY - "Lifesaver"
https://youtu.be/UZE4ybVVEoI

10) BARBARA RANDOLPH - "Breaking Into My Heart"
https://youtu.be/1qFVZAbdDJ8

11) SAUNDRA EDWARDS - "All Or Nothing"
https://youtu.be/lcmK-XKA4MI

12) THE VELVELETTES - "It Keeps Reminding Me [[Of Happy Memories)"
https://youtu.be/549xh_mt8CY

13) VERMETTYA ROYSTOR - "If I Were Your Woman"
https://youtu.be/KqcRiNHI0x0

14) LIZ LANDS - "How Sweet It Is"
https://youtu.be/fSZk6wW8xbs

15) KIM WESTON - "A Case Of Too Much Lovemaking"
https://youtu.be/VviCJCzjhVU

16) FREDA PAYNE - "Only Minutes Away"
https://youtu.be/xeeKnsZUbMc

17) PAT LEWIS - "I Don't Want Nobody Else"
https://youtu.be/ANEm3mtMzTA

18) BILLY GRIFFIN - "Technicolor"
https://youtu.be/6U0imZAJeIE

19) KIM WESTON - "Somebody's Eyes"
https://youtu.be/vOScw6F33kk

20) CAROLYN CRAWFORD - "Timeless"
https://youtu.be/Ks-rpZXJens

[westgrandboulevard]

It may go a bit quiet from this end, just while I'm thinking......:confused:

[Philles/Motown Gary]

It may go a bit quiet from this end, just while I'm thinking......:confused:

No problem. I've been up all night. Hittin' the hay now!

[westgrandboulevard]

Well, this is going to be very tricky.

I am quietly holding my very own Quality Control online meeting.

And am already up to a Hot Hundred favourites.

Also, there is something good to be found about all of the others, no matter how small the 'positive' points may seem to be....

It seems the following statement applies to even those at the foot of the list:

"There are no bad Motorcity recordings.
Only Motorcity recordings which need more work." :)

[mysterysinger]

Have to say that Pat Lewis shines on her Motorcity recordings - she has a great voice. Scherrie Payne handles Diana's material really well in my opinion. I love Billy Griffin's recording of "Walk Away From Love". A huge shout out too for The Andantes "Little Darling [[I Need You)" and The Fantastic Four's "Sidestepping". None of which I've found on YouTube. I could easily put them on, but wouldn't want to step on Ian Levine's toes.

Motorcity seems to have had a few distributorsover the years. Also, given the fact that many Motorcity tracks appear on compilations by other labels Ian must have been able to make plenty of money from leasing recordings elsewhere, assuming he still owns them all.

[westgrandboulevard]

Yes, I have often wondered if, following the great financial difficulties, he still has ownership of the recordings...or, if not in full, still receives revenue from them, maybe from publishing rights.

While Pat Lewis, to my ears, may not have the most distinctive lead singing voice, I consider her still technically very good indeed. Her voice does have a remarkable 'honeyed' and expressive tone. Her 'Don't Memories Mean A Thing' is one of my very favourite Motorcity tracks.. And I agree with your other examples.

Yes, those problems and bad luck with distributors. Perhaps it is because Ian Levine is British, and his operations largely seem to be based here in the UK...but in reading some of the posts on this thread, I am coming to the feeling that Motorcity perhaps had much less of a profile in the US than I had originally assumed......

[kenneth]

Have to say that Pat Lewis shines on her Motorcity recordings - she has a great voice. Scherrie Payne handles Diana's material really well in my opinion. I love Billy Griffin's recording of "Walk Away From Love". A huge shout out too for The Andantes "Little Darling [[I Need You)" and The Fantastic Four's "Sidestepping". None of which I've found on YouTube.


https://youtu.be/tTYnpF4r39w

I found the Billy Griffin track on YouTube and you are right, he really sings the hell out of that song. Of course, he’s not really recognizable from the way he sounded while at Motown, where I guess he was supposed to sound as much like Smokey Robinson as possible, and his voice has obviously matured, but what a great singer! I just wish the arrangements were sparser, they’re over produced, just capturing the singers who were still sounding great with less interference from the backing track I think in most cases would’ve been a better choice. But this is a really good one, as you say. Thanks!

[Philles/Motown Gary]

The Motorcity compilation album GIRL GROUPS OF THE MOTORCITY features a photo of the Andantes on the back. It shows them as a quartet featuring Louvain, Marlene, Jackie, and Pat.

Well, that makes sense, Reese. From what I've read, Pat Lewis was a former group member of an earlier version of The Andantes.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Well, this is going to be very tricky.

I am quietly holding my very own Quality Control online meeting.

And am already up to a Hot Hundred favourites.

Also, there is something good to be found about all of the others, no matter how small the 'positive' points may seem to be....

It seems the following statement applies to even those at the foot of the list:

"There are no bad Motorcity recordings.
Only Motorcity recordings which need more work." :)

Regarding your last paragraph above, Westgrand -- "There are no bad Motorcity recordings.
Only Motorcity recordings which need more work." That's exactly what Berry Gordy told HDH when they tried to submit The Supremes' "Baby Love" for release at Motown's weekly Quality Control Meeting! When you compare the earlier lackluster version with the new-and-improved released version, the difference in the mix is fresh and exciting -- like the difference between night and day. All it needed was a few tweaks here and there, and a new intro, and VOILA -- a perfect new hit was born![/QUOTE]

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Have to say that Pat Lewis shines on her Motorcity recordings - she has a great voice. Scherrie Payne handles Diana's material really well in my opinion. I love Billy Griffin's recording of "Walk Away From Love". A huge shout out too for The Andantes "Little Darling [[I Need You)" and The Fantastic Four's "Sidestepping". None of which I've found on YouTube. I could easily put them on, but wouldn't want to step on Ian Levine's toes.

Motorcity seems to have had a few distributorsover the years. Also, given the fact that many Motorcity tracks appear on compilations by other labels Ian must have been able to make plenty of money from leasing recordings elsewhere, assuming he still owns them all.

Yes, Mystery, Scherrie Payne does great justice to Diana's songs. I, too, love Pat Lewis. And, yes, distributors were a thorn in Ian's side from practically day one of the Motorcity project. To add to the problem, U.S. distributors didn't want to bank their money on older-aged artists from "yester-year". Were it not for HOT Productions in Florida, who finally distributed all of Ian's recorded output for him here in the States, I would have never even heard of Ian Levine. Luckily, thanks to 3 separate 2-CD sets of newer Ian-Levine disco/HI NRG artists [[totaling 6 discs), I learned a LOT about Ian and his music -- both Motorcity and his other artists. It was a crash-course in which I was a quick study and LOVED every minute of it!

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Yes, I have often wondered if, following the great financial difficulties, he still has ownership of the recordings...or, if not in full, still receives revenue from them, maybe from publishing rights.

While Pat Lewis, to my ears, may not have the most distinctive lead singing voice, I consider her still technically very good indeed. Her voice does have a remarkable 'honeyed' and expressive tone. Her 'Don't Memories Mean A Thing' is one of my very favourite Motorcity tracks.. And I agree with your other examples.

Yes, those problems and bad luck with distributors. Perhaps it is because Ian Levine is British, and his operations largely seem to be based here in the UK...but in reading some of the posts on this thread, I am coming to the feeling that Motorcity perhaps had much less of a profile in the US than I had originally assumed......

It never occurred to me whether Ian was able to retain ownership of his extensive body of Motorcity recordings. I certainly hope so. After all of his hard work and immense enthusiasm, it would be a shame if he lost any of it.

[reese]

Yes, Mystery, Scherrie Payne does great justice to Diana's songs. I, too, love Pat Lewis. And, yes, distributors were a thorn in Ian's side from practically day one of the Motorcity project. To add to the problem, U.S. distributors didn't want to bank their money on older-aged artists from "yester-year". Were it not for HOT Productions in Florida, who finally distributed all of Ian's recorded output for him here in the States, I would have never even heard of Ian Levine. Luckily, thanks to 3 separate 2-CD sets of newer Ian-Levine disco/HI NRG artists [[totaling 6 discs), I learned a LOT about Ian and his music -- both Motorcity and his other artists. It was a crash-course in which I was a quick study and LOVED every minute of it!

Do you have any idea what happened with the deal with Quality Records? They were the first to issue Motorcity product in the US with the 12 inch, the 5-disc multi-artist collection, and a Mary Wells cd.

I knew the Motorcity project was underway so I was very excited when I went into Tower Records one day and found the Quality 12 inch, even moreso when I discovered the 5-cd collection. But I never saw any promo aside from an appearance of some of the artists on an episode of "Geraldo" before the actual material was released.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Do you have any idea what happened with the deal with Quality Records? They were the first to issue Motorcity product in the US with the 12 inch, the 5-disc multi-artist collection, and a Mary Wells cd.

I knew the Motorcity project was underway so I was very excited when I went into Tower Records one day and found the Quality 12 inch, even moreso when I discovered the 5-cd collection. But I never saw any promo aside from an appearance of some of the artists on an episode of "Geraldo" before the actual material was released.

Reese, I'm sorry to say that I know nothing about the earliest days of the Motorcity project. Did you check out the History of Motorcity Records at the very top of this thread? I sort of skimmed over that part, as I was more interested in Motorcity itself than earlier labels that morphed into it. I got into Motorcity in the mid-to-late 1990s thanks to the [[now defunct) HOT Productions [[Miami, FL) catalogue which contained nothing but hard-to-get import dance artists. One entire chapter of the catalogue was devoted to Motorcity Records. The cataIog was a dance-music lover's dream come true. I was hooked even before I placed my first order of which there were many. I'm glad that I kept the catalog. It holds many fond memories of that summer. I was sorry and sad to hear that HOT Productions eventually went out of business, causing Ian to lose his only American distributor.

[grapevine]

Grape, I love this record! Who is Ebony Alleyne? Is she one of Ian's more recent artists?

...here's the Wiki bio...

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ebony_Alleyne

...basically Sony let her down...! I have her Never Look Back CD ...and it's brilliant...!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VB2NOs4zfWQ

Grape :)

[reese]

Reese, I'm sorry to say that I know nothing about the earliest days of the Motorcity project. Did you check out the History of Motorcity Records at the very top of this thread? I sort of skimmed over that part, as I was more interested in Motorcity itself than earlier labels that morphed into it. I got into Motorcity in the mid-to-late 1990s thanks to the [[now defunct) HOT Productions [[Miami, FL) catalogue which contained nothing but hard-to-get import dance artists. One entire chapter of the catalogue was devoted to Motorcity Records. The cataIog was a dance-music lover's dream come true. I was hooked even before I placed my first order of which there were many. I'm glad that I kept the catalog. It holds many fond memories of that summer. I was sorry and sad to hear that HOT Productions eventually went out of business, causing Ian to lose his only American distributor.

Thanks for responding.

I sort of skimmed over the history as well. But reading it now, it doesn't mention anything about the deal with Quality Records. Re US deals, it just mentions Hot Productions.

[westgrandboulevard]

Were it not for HOT Productions in Florida, who finally distributed all of Ian's recorded output for him here in the States, I would have never even heard of Ian Levine.

PMG,

I seem to remember Ian Levine reporting at the time that Atlantic turned down distribution of Motorcity without hearing a single track. An executive for the company apparently made a disparaging comment to the effect that he was 'harbouring a collection of has-beens'.....

Are you sure Hot Productions 'distributed all of Ian's recorded product' there in the States?

Looking at the titles, it doesn't seem to me that all Motorcity product which did become available here in the UK was actually released for the US market....?

[Philles/Motown Gary]

...here's the Wiki bio...

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ebony_Alleyne

...basically Sony let her down...! I have her Never Look Back CD ...and it's brilliant...!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VB2NOs4zfWQ

Grape :)

Thanks for trying, Grapevine. At least the biography you provided was interesting, despite the video not being available.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

PMG,

I seem to remember Ian Levine reporting at the time that Atlantic turned down distribution of Motorcity without hearing a single track. An executive for the company apparently made a disparaging comment to the effect that he was 'harbouring a collection of has-beens'.....

Are you sure Hot Productions 'distributed all of Ian's recorded product' there in the States?

Looking at the titles, it doesn't seem to me that all Motorcity product which did become available here in the UK was actually released for the US market....?

Westgrand, the HOT Productions catalog consists of 8 pages of Motorcity product including the Various Artists "Best Of Motorcity [[Vols. 1-20)"; the V.A. "Cream Of The Crop" [[Vols. 1-3)" consisting of extended dance versions; and several "Best Of" collections by individual artists of which some had already been released, and others which were advertised as "Coming Soon" but, to my knowledge, never saw the light of day. I don't want to spoil the surprises. If Kenny is willing to upload the HOT Productions catalog's front cover as well as the 8 pages of Motorcity CD product, you'll get to see for yourself what Motorcity CDs were released as well as what was scheduled but never made it. It's a shame that HOT Productions went under. I have a slew of their dance releases of which some were by artists [[non-Motorcity) and many which were by record label [[The Best Of Venture Records; The Best Of Moby Dick Records; The Best Of "O" Records, The Best Of Ian's Record Shack Records, etc. As far as Ians's Motorcity product is concerned, you guys across the pond got more than we did. Regarding the Various Artists "Best Of Motorcity" series, we only got Vols. 1-20, whereas you got all 40 volumes, did you not? Believe me, I would have bought them all had they been available.

Oh, so Atlantic Records was the label that didn't want to invest money on artists of "yester-year". I thought "yester-year" was bad enough, but "has-beens"? Like Motown, Atlantic has a rich history in its artists of the past. How ironic that they would slam the former Motown artists who were even more successful than many of Atlantic's artists.

[westgrandboulevard]

vRegarding the Various Artists "Best Of Motorcity" series, we only got Vols. 1-20, whereas you got all 40 volumes, did you not? Believe me, I would have bought them all had they been available.

PGM, best to just move at your own speed with uploading information...no, you shouldn't be spoiling any surprises for anyone else who is interested. I think I just might be ahead of you, on much of the information - at least, I perhaps just like to think so haha...

As far as I know, 'Best Of Motorcity' series by Hot Productions was an exclusively US series, but could well have been available by import. So, again as far as I know, we did not have Vols 1-20, let alone Vols 1-40. The UK 'Various Artists' collections went out under different titles.

I was only aware of Hot Productions releases some years later. Virtually all the tracks used there had been released before Motorcity Records went down in the UK....but there were also quite a number tracks which were still unreleased at that time, and showed up on Hot Productions releases.

The UK Motorcity release list was very different. We also had what I would call 'showcase' albums by artists.....Louvain Demps, Barbara Randolph, Brenda Holloway, Fantastic Four, The Lovetones, and many more....which featured only their tracks, as opposed to appearing on 'Various Artists' collections.

If you haven't already done so, check out Discogs for Motorcity label releases....they should all be shown on there...UK, and also US. Last time I checked, I think I had at least most of them....vinyl, as well as CD, cassettes.....

Don't forget to do the same for Nightmare...for the lap-over recordings which then went out on Motorcity label.....as well as non-Motorcity titles. :)

[westgrandboulevard]

Despite Motorcity being an essentially UK-based project, while featuring almost exclusively US artists, I do think one main reason it failed was because much of it was not made available sooner to the US market.

As there was a love for all things Motown which still continues to this day here in the UK, there was also a perceived potential at the outset for UK Motown fans to appreciate the Motorcity releases.

We seemed to have a much greater selection of releases available here, than in the US at the same time.

If that same selection could have been made swiftly available via a large US national distributor, at least the potential for success would surely have been greater, given the difference in size of the record buying population.

Any remixes which were then felt necessary, would have followed through much more swiftly.

While much of the initial product wasn't perfect, I think lack of distribution in the bigger US market had to have been one main factor which killed Motorcity Records.

[TomatoTom123]

What a fantastic Presentation Gary.
I will be the first to admit I know little of this music except from a distance. This occurred during the, escape from music and on to other things , era of my life. I had no idea so many tunes were developed with so many artists.
Its too fantastic to be anything but a fantasy. Yet Levine did it .
why this has never been developed into a movie seems a mystery . Maybe it is just too fantastic a story to be believable.

[nice work !!:cool:]

I totally agree Boogie!! I can only imagine that the lack of hits [and that a fair few of the artists not being household names] has made a movie unlikely. And it was an entirely separate affair from Motown itself. Still, it really is a great story, one that deserves to be told!! :D

I do wonder what Berry Gordy made of it all... :cool:

[kenneth]

Westgrand, the HOT Productions catalog consists of 8 pages of Motorcity product including the Various Artists "Best Of Motorcity [[Vols. 1-20)"; the V.A. "Cream Of The Crop" [[Vols. 1-3)" consisting of extended dance versions; and several "Best Of" collections by individual artists of which some had already been released, and others which were advertised as "Coming Soon" but, to my knowledge, never saw the light of day. I don't want to spoil the surprises. If Kenny is willing to upload the HOT Productions catalog's front cover as well as the 8 pages of Motorcity CD product, you'll get to see for yourself what Motorcity CDs were released as well as what was scheduled but never made it. It's a shame that HOT Productions went under. I have a slew of their dance releases of which some were by artists [[non-Motorcity) and many which were by record label [[The Best Of Venture Records; The Best Of Moby Dick Records; The Best Of "O" Records, The Best Of Ian's Record Shack Records, etc. As far as Ians's Motorcity product is concerned, you guys across the pond got more than we did. Regarding the Various Artists "Best Of Motorcity" series, we only got Vols. 1-20, whereas you got all 40 volumes, did you not? Believe me, I would have bought them all had they been available.

I have several of the volumes that highlighted various record labels such as Record Shack. The Hot releases were extremely high quality and had fantastic mastering and sound. I also have a few of their artists "best of's" though none of the former Motown artists other than the Marvelettes, but their "Best of Santa Esmeralda," for example, the sound is just phenomenal. You never heard the music sound as good as it did. At the time, I was amazed at the depth of their catalog though I was unaware until much later that they had recorded so many from the former Motown stable.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

I have several of the volumes that highlighted various record labels such as Record Shack. The Hot releases were extremely high quality and had fantastic mastering and sound. I also have a few of their artists "best of's" though none of the former Motown artists other than the Marvelettes, but their "Best of Santa Esmeralda," for example, the sound is just phenomenal. You never heard the music sound as good as it did. At the time, I was amazed at the depth of their catalog though I was unaware until much later that they had recorded so many from the former Motown stable.

Kenny, I, too, have all of the Santa Esmeralda CDs provided by HOT Productions. And you're absolutely right. All of their CDs are from the master tapes and they sound fantastic!

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Despite Motorcity being an essentially UK-based project, while featuring almost exclusively US artists, I do think one main reason it failed was because much of it was not made available sooner to the US market.

As there was a love for all things Motown which still continues to this day here in the UK, there was also a perceived potential at the outset for UK Motown fans to appreciate the Motorcity releases.

We seemed to have a much greater selection of releases available here, than in the US at the same time.

If that same selection could have been made swiftly available via a large US national distributor, at least the potential for success would surely have been greater, given the difference in size of the record buying population.

Any remixes which were then felt necessary, would have followed through much more swiftly.

While much of the initial product wasn't perfect, I think lack of distribution in the bigger US market had to have been one main factor which killed Motorcity Records.

You hit the nail on the head, Westgrand. Lack of availability in America, coupled with America's lack of awareness that Motorcity even existed, prevented sales here. It wasn't until HOT Productions educated U.S. dance-music fans that Motorcity Records could be bought and had. Discovering Ian Levine's productions [[both Motorcity and non-Motorcity related) opened up whole new musical vistas for which I remain forever grateful.

[westgrandboulevard]

While the UK releases were coming through, usually at least one a week, it really didn't occur to me that not so many of the recordings were actually available in the US. I just simply assumed that they were....

It seems that at the time when everyone got together in Detroit in 1989, not much of the product was available to back it up.

I think Levi Stubbs commented that it took a Brit to come to America and get everyone together again.

Here, I believe the Sunday Times later devoted a colour supplement - although I have yet to actually see a copy.

And Channel 4 made a one hour special, 'Second Time Around'. I have it on video cassette, but currently no way of playing it. No idea if it has ever been made available on DVD, or on the internet, but somebody may know.....

[Philles/Motown Gary]

While the UK releases were coming through, usually at least one a week, it really didn't occur to me that not so many of the recordings were actually available in the US. I just simply assumed that they were....

It seems that at the time when everyone got together in Detroit in 1989, not much of the product was available to back it up.

I think Levi Stubbs commented that it took a Brit to come to America and get everyone together again.

Here, I believe the Sunday Times later devoted a colour supplement - although I have yet to actually see a copy.

And Channel 4 made a one hour special, 'Second Time Around'. I have it on video cassette, but currently no way of playing it. No idea if it has ever been made available on DVD, or on the internet, but somebody may know.....

Westgrand, I think it's safe to say that Ian's massive and impressive Motorcity project was a victim of Murphy's Law. Despite the artistic success of many of his productions, everything that COULD go wrong, DID INDEED go wrong: 1) Distributor problems preventing Motorcity releases from being available to the public; 2) Few sales, as little-to-no income was coming in; 3) Harsh, critical reviews from "fans" who kicked him to the curb when he was already down; 4) Motorcity artists complaining that they weren't getting paid. Although they had every right to be upset, it isn't as if Ian skipped town with all of the profits. There WERE no profits to be had by anyone -- not even Ian. He was broke. Nearly bankrupt! So much for all of his well-intended hard work.

I can only hope that after all of these years, Ian knows that there are still fans who love and appreciate his Motorcity productions -- especially those many hidden gems which lie within.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

I've forwarded some newly-prepared Ian Levine-related material to Kenny which I'm pretty sure you'll all love! Unfortunately, Kenny's currently a victim of a brutal Winter storm which has left him with no electrical power. Let's hope he manages to keep warm, and is able to upload those new pages soon.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

While the UK releases were coming through, usually at least one a week, it really didn't occur to me that not so many of the recordings were actually available in the US. I just simply assumed that they were....

It seems that at the time when everyone got together in Detroit in 1989, not much of the product was available to back it up.

I think Levi Stubbs commented that it took a Brit to come to America and get everyone together again.

Here, I believe the Sunday Times later devoted a colour supplement - although I have yet to actually see a copy.

And Channel 4 made a one hour special, 'Second Time Around'. I have it on video cassette, but currently no way of playing it. No idea if it has ever been made available on DVD, or on the internet, but somebody may know.....

No, most of us weren't even aware of a Motorcity project until HOT Productions made them available to us. For me, I discovered HOT Productions in the mid-to-late '90s. I wish I could put a finger on it, but I can't remember exactly which year. I clearly remember discovering and ordering the MANY artists & CD releases that were new to me -- both Ian's Motown- and non-Motown-related artists. And I can remember driving home from work on a particular Summer day -- anxious to get home and open my package of new Motorcity and/or new Miguel Brown, Carol Jiani, Louise Thomas, Angie Gold, and L.L. Johnson releases!

I can't really blame Levi for saying that because it's true. And I don't recall ever being aware of Ian's Motown-artist get-together in Detroit.

And it works both ways! I wish I had a dollar for every American-artist CD I had to pay big bucks for as an import because it wasn't released here in America. I swear, if I did, I would be rich!

[Philles/Motown Gary]

I've forwarded some newly-prepared Ian Levine-related material to Kenny which I'm pretty sure you'll all love! Unfortunately, Kenny's currently a victim of a brutal Winter storm which has left him with no electrical power. Let's hope he manages to keep warm, and is able to upload those new pages soon.

Good news! It will be coming very soon!

[144man]

Hi, 144man! I did not know that. I love learning about the behind-the-scenes happenings at our favorite record companies. Putting Frances under such pressure -- overnight, no less -- surely must have made her a nervous wreck. Was she even a lyricist? Without looking it up, I don't recall.

The lyrics were thought to be corny, but they went wiith them anyway.

[144man]

Soren1974,

Oh, I'm seeing some real favourites for my own list right there.....

And so good to see Joe Stubbs 'Smoke's In The Air' included [sometimes titled 'Smoke In The Air', I've noticed..].

I have often wondered about that strong female background voice on the chorus [think she also features on 'All Over The World', and several others]...would you know if that is Tracey Ackerman? Otherwise I guess it has to be either Jill Saward or Jackie Rawe.....

I remember Steve Daws telling me that Ian used Tracey Ackerman as a backing singer a lot, but he was not more specific.

[144man]

The WIKI link of Nightmare singles has some gaps I can fill in. None were released on Nightmare.

MARE
90 Seventh Avenue - Ten Percent
93 Exciters - Snake In the Grass
108 Marvelettes - Holding On With Both Hands
109 Edwin Starr - Let's Fall In Love Tonight
118 Martha Reeves & Vandellas - Step Into My Shoes
123 Billy Griffin - First In Line

[144man]

Missing details for Volume 10
Producers

All tracks produced by Ian Levine except tracks 2, 3, 10 Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos, track 15 Ian Levine, Mike Valvano & Rick Gianatos

[144man]

Missing details for Volume 10
Composers

Track
1 I Levine, S wagner
2 D Richards
3 G Dobbins, W Garrett, R Bateman, F Gorman
4 I Levine, B Taylor, H Karim, S Wagner
5 I Levine, GC Cameron
6 I Levine, L John
7 I levine, S Moy, S Wagner
8 I Levine, B Ganton
9 B McNair, R Miller, C Perkinson
10 I Levine, V Williams, S Sanders
11 I Levine, L John
12 I Levine, M Valvano, S Wagner
13 I Levine, B Griffin
14 P Adams , K Cooksey, F Hauser, E Lemon
15 I Levine, M Valvano
16 I. Levine, F Nero

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Missing details for Volume 10
Composers

Track
1 I Levine, S wagner
2 D Richards
3 G Dobbins, W Garrett, R Bateman, F Gorman
4 I Levine, B Taylor, H Karim, S Wagner
5 I Levine, GC Cameron
6 I Levine, L John
7 I levine, S Moy, S Wagner
8 I Levine, B Ganton
9 B McNair, R Miller, C Perkinson
10 I Levine, V Williams, S Sanders
11 I Levine, L John
12 I Levine, M Valvano, S Wagner
13 I Levine, B Griffin
14 P Adams , K Cooksey, F Hauser, E Lemon
15 I Levine, M Valvano
16 I. Levine, F Nero

Thanks for providing the songwriter credits, 144man. As can be seen, my copy of "Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 10)" is a one-off version. The front cover is identical to the other volumes in the series, but the back cover is sorely lacking. [[The inside of the back cover, BTW, is blank.)

[144man]

^^^ You're welcome. i don't have access to a printer otherwise I would have just scanned it.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

144man, you went the extra mile which is greatly appreciated.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

GOOD NEWS!!! The MOTORCITY Individual-Artist CD thread is nearly complete! God willing, Kenny will be uploading it this weekend. Just to whet your whistle, our presentation will be another "MOTORCITY Jukebox" affair! [[Thanks again for that cool nickname, Westgrand! It's a keeper!)

[westgrandboulevard]

On a beautiful Sunday morning here in the UK, I am in 'Best Of' Motorcity Jukebox mood....

So, starting from the very top of this thread [where else...], and 'Best Of Vol 1', I am playing Frances Nero's '"Footsteps..."

And while I am about it....

The version on the link appears to match the same track on my actual 'Best Of' Vol 1 CD, at 4.20.

And it is longer than the version originally released by Charly on the 'Out On The Floor' CD album, which comes in at 3.41....

Also the 7" radio mix on Debut, at 4.02.

But not as long, of course, as the full length extended version found on 'Footsteps...' Motorcity 71 album, 7.37....and, in addition, 'The Cream Of The Crop' [Vol 1] Motorcity 61 album, same length.

For me, it is always the full length version!

There are more remix versions, but I'm feeling 'fully versioned' enough on 'Footsteps Following Me', for today...:)

[westgrandboulevard]

Best Of, Vol. 1, track 2...'Head Over Heels'...

Very nice little song, and one of my favourites by The Contours...

Co-written by Edwin Starr...but it doesn't seem he recorded it himself.

Listening to it now, I can just hear that voice of his....:)

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Best Of, Vol. 1, track 2...'Head Over Heels'...

Very nice little song, and one of my favourites by The Contours...

Co-written by Edwin Starr...but it doesn't seem he recorded it himself.

Listening to it now, I can just hear that voice of his....:)

Westgrand, I love "Head Over Heels", too. It's amazing how many of the Motorcity "songbook" tunes I merely tolerated before but actually love now. With that in mind, I'm thinking that Ian's music was perhaps a bit ahead of its time -- at least for my personal liking.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Best Of, Vol. 1, track 2...'Head Over Heels'...

Very nice little song, and one of my favourites by The Contours...

Co-written by Edwin Starr...but it doesn't seem he recorded it himself.

Listening to it now, I can just hear that voice of his....:)

Westgrand, I love "Head Over Heels", too. It's amazing how many of the Motorcity "songbook" tunes I merely tolerated before but actually love now. With that in mind, I'm thinking that Ian's music was perhaps a bit ahead of its time -- at least for my personal liking.

[westgrandboulevard]

PMG, it looks like you're sending out your posts in stereo now ;)

And yes, I was thinking on very similar lines only yesterday, about the 'songbook'.

In the very beginning, the superficial perception by many was that Motorcity was just a carbon copy of Motown. And who then formed a negative opinion of the whole project, and dismissed it, without checking it out a bit more. I think that was largely down to the basic production values on many tracks, and most especially those featuring already well-known Motown songs, and which did not seem to compare favourably.

That seemed to be the general view from Motown fans...and I am sure was really formed from great disappointment, in that the voices of their long beloved artists were not being showcased to better effect. It was taken as a personal letdown of long held memories from their youth.

Well, how can anyone really emulate the sound of Hitsville? And why would they...it's been done by Motown itself. That is literally a matter for the record. And also that other record companies tried and failed to do the same in the sixties. So, best to take those voices and present them to equal effect, with new productions, and new songs....

To be fair to Ian Levine, he did state that he wanted to have glorious tracks with, for example, strings which were missing before...and I think he was aiming for a 'Motown meets Philly' sound. Listening to the Motorcity 2023 tracks, I would say that aim has now been achieved.

And yes, I would very much agree, and say that Motorcity was definitely before its time...but the effect of that was totally disguised by the featuring of established artists. So that immediately sent a signal of being 'behind the times'.

But Ian Levine has always possessed a very real talent for weaving rhythm, riffs and melodies together, and then by inserting quite commonly used phrases and lyrics. Nothing too complicated...so just making it easy to assimilate. Just a couple of lines can have a habit of sneaking in, and then going round and round in the mind. Well, they do in my own mind.....

And since music has changed since the 80s, and rap has become more popular, the notion of 'a tune' has seemed to fall out of fashion. Why not bring it back?

So let's keep hearing it for Motorcity. The music may perhaps still be considered as 'manufactured', but the voices, and the sentiments expressed, are not. :)

[westgrandboulevard]

Best Of, Vol, 1, track 3...'Walk The City Streets'...

This must be the most distinctive and dramatic track ever made by Mary Wells.
Am always in awe of Liz Lands' operatic soprano intro....
Hardly a typical Motorcity track...scheduled but not released as a single.
Would love to hear this played in a large disco or stadium.

It seems there were two extended versions, one at 8.28, and another at 6.11 mins.

Will need to check, but I don't think I have either on CD
[version on 'Keeping My Mind On Love' album is 3.55, same as here]
but can find a 6+ minute version on YouTube....

[mysterysinger]

As regards "Walk The City Streets" Discogs shows it as 6:15 on "The Best Of Motorcity" Volume 1 Track 3.

This, I'm guessing, is the same as the 6:11 version on "The Very Best Of Mary Wells".

[westgrandboulevard]

Well, that's very interesting indeed, and thanks......

I used the link at the top of this thread....and assumed the shorter version there was correct, as almost all tracks in 'Best Of' series would seem to be edits. Having now checked with my actual disc, I find you are quite right. Note to self...check all other 'Best Of' volumes for any more extended versions!

And I had overlooked the fact that I do also have 'The Very Best Of'....credited as 'Walk On the City Streets'....and you're right....it's the extended version, and same as on 'Best Of' Vol 1.

So I have gone from thinking I do not have an extended version...to finding I actually have two.

Today is a good day. :)

[Boogiedown]

PMG, it looks like you're sending out your posts in stereo now ;)

And yes, I was thinking on very similar lines only yesterday, about the 'songbook'.

In the very beginning, the superficial perception by many was that Motorcity was just a carbon copy of Motown. And who then formed a negative opinion of the whole project, and dismissed it, without checking it out a bit more. I think that was largely down to the basic production values on many tracks, and most especially those featuring already well-known Motown songs, and which did not seem to compare favourably.

That seemed to be the general view from Motown fans...and I am sure was really formed from great disappointment, in that the voices of their long beloved artists were not being showcased to better effect. It was taken as a personal letdown of long held memories from their youth.

Well, how can anyone really emulate the sound of Hitsville? And why would they...it's been done by Motown itself. That is literally a matter for the record. And also that other record companies tried and failed to do the same in the sixties. So, best to take those voices and present them to equal effect, with new productions, and new songs....

To be fair to Ian Levine, he did state that he wanted to have glorious tracks with, for example, strings which were missing before...and I think he was aiming for a 'Motown meets Philly' sound. Listening to the Motorcity 2023 tracks, I would say that aim has now been achieved.

And yes, I would very much agree, and say that Motorcity was definitely before its time...but the effect of that was totally disguised by the featuring of established artists. So that immediately sent a signal of being 'behind the times'.

But Ian Levine has always possessed a very real talent for weaving rhythm, riffs and melodies together, and then by inserting quite commonly used phrases and lyrics. Nothing too complicated...so just making it easy to assimilate. Just a couple of lines can have a habit of sneaking in, and then going round and round in the mind. Well, they do in my own mind.....

And since music has changed since the 80s, and rap has become more popular, the notion of 'a tune' has seemed to fall out of fashion. Why not bring it back?

So let's keep hearing it for Motorcity. The music may perhaps still be considered as 'manufactured', but the voices, and the sentiments expressed, are not. :)

^^This is so well said. :cool:

I have to admit to having a mixed response to this project..........based mostly out of ignorance . I guess I had thought Ian did a couple of songs with this act or this one ...........maybe thirty songs or so in all and even that would have been a substantial accomplishment. When it was revealed here that we are approaching 1,000 songs [!!!!] and with so many artists,
well its just too wild to fully wrap my head around.

I bet Ian was pinching himself that he had this amount of access and this amount of interest and willingness from artists he so revered his entire life. He was like a kid in the world's largest candy store. How could he not want to take the experience to the max...
He took on quite a challenge that was laid at his feet.

So while part of me, when looking at the sheer volume of work here asks ,"why?" .... a much bigger part of me says, .... "Why not??" :)

[westgrandboulevard]

Thank you for the compliment, Boogiedown.

The Motorcity project did show a very great sense of prescience on the part of Ian Levine.

If he had not acted upon his dream at that very time, the voices of so many more of the artists, whose voices were preserved by the project, would have been lost forever.....

If you haven't already done so, check out the Motorcity 2023 tracks for evidence of how successfully [IMO] Motorcity tracks can be re-worked, and then come up sounding brand new....:)

[westgrandboulevard]

'Best Of', Vol 1, track 4 - 'In The Name Of Love'....

The Pat Lewis version of the Sharon Redd oldie....

Quite a repetitive song, made more so because the background sounds just too hard and monotonous to my ears.

Some good things, but would be interesting to hear what else could be done with it....

[westgrandboulevard]

Best Of', Vol 1, track 5 - 'Girl With A Broken Heart'

If I had to name just one Motorcity track which I think features the very best interplay between lead and background vocals, this would have to be it.

Lead vocal by Karen Pree, and background vocals by Karen herself, joined by Carolyn Crawford
and Sandra Feva.

Co-written by Karen and her husband Clay McMurray, with Ian Levine also sharing a writing credit.

A great track, with many standout little details, but falls short of being totally glorious due to that basic drum machine sound - which not only distracts, but substantially detracts from the track's full potential.

A track high on the list for re-working, IMO...!


Can anyone name another Motorcity track where Carolyn Crawford sings background, apart from on her own recordings? I can certainly think of one.....

[westgrandboulevard]

Best Of', Vol 1, track 6 - ' Better Love Next Time'

Neat title, nice song, co-written by Marv Johnson....yet with some elements which could be enhanced.

The light, airy lead and background vocals are easy on the ear, and the chorus is very catchy.

Best version is on Motorcity 2023; Vol. 1.....

[westgrandboulevard]

'Best Of Motorcity', Vol 1, track 7 - The Miracles - 'Fun Time' 4.56

An edit of the remix by Aron Friedman, issued on 12" single. 5.52
Light and funky; much to enjoy.
Completely different in production from the original....

...and which is 4.22, found on the B side of the 12".
A typically solid, heavy bass Motorcity sound [if rather too prominent drum machine]; good song with very infectious chorus, background vocals arranged by Bobby Rogers; a 'get out on the floor' production.

[westgrandboulevard]

'Best Of Motorcity', Vol 1, track 8 - Edwin Starr - 'In The Nick Of Time' 4.51

Not the same song as 'Just In The Nick Of Time' by The Marvelettes, although that complete line does form part of the chorus. Has a good rhythm going; a very pleasant song with several good little hooks, even if the chorus doesn't really stand out too much from the verses. In places, it's as if as many words as possible have been packed into the lyrics. One of a number of Motorcity recordings co-written by Edwin Starr and Ian Levine. Background vocals by Billy Griffin.

[westgrandboulevard]

Westgrand, they're closer to their Motown harmonies -- especially on "Standing In The Shadows Of Love" [[which, BTW, is a great cover version!), but their blend is still not quite the same. Compare their vocals here with their vocals on Marvin Gaye & Kim Weston's "Heaven Sent You [[I Know)" from their "Take Two" album. In the song's introduction, that's The Andantes' angelic harmonic "blend" I'm referring to. If Pat Lewis has been singing with them on the Motorcity recordings, that could very well explain why their blend is not the same. All it takes is the addition or subtraction of one voice to change the blend.

Gary, simply because I'm playing 'My Cherie Amour' by Sylvia Moy right now.....

Not exactly the angelic harmonic blend you most like from The Andantes....but, on this track, the sweet, velvety blend of background voices is surely presented by the ladies themselves....and, I would say, minus Pat Lewis.....absolute perfection.....

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Gary, simply because I'm playing 'My Cherie Amour' by Sylvia Moy right now.....

Not exactly the angelic harmonic blend you most like from The Andantes....but, on this track, the sweet, velvety blend of background voices is surely presented by the ladies themselves....and, I would say, minus Pat Lewis.....absolute perfection.....

By George, I think you've got something there, westgrand! Those angelic back-up vocals are the closest to The Andantes that I've heard on Motorcity recordings.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

* TO ALL IAN LEVINE MOTORCITY RECORDS ENTHUSIASTS *

Ralph has agreed to let us use Kenny's and my "Best Of Motorcity [[Vols. 1-20)" thread as the Entrance Door to the all-new MOTORCITY FORUM! Unlike the unfriendly alternate "Motor City" Forum thread right next to this one [[which Ralph tried to remove but wasn't able to), "Best Of Motorcity [[Vols. 1-20)" is highly welcoming and informative. Hopefully, our MOTORCITY FORUM will survive and thrive here in our new location!

Here is a list of the Motorcity thread titles which Ralph recently moved from the Motown Forum to the Soulful Detroit Forum [[listed in the order in which they were created) They'll have to somehow be reconnected to a link which is out of my realm. [[Technically challenged here, which is Kenny's talent.)

More On Motorcity - 1990 EU Launch And 25 Volume CD Series [[Mysterysinger, 2/24/23)

How I Discovered The Musical World Of Ian Levine [[Philles/Motown Gary, 2/25/23)

Motorcity 2023 - Vol. 1 [[Soren1974, 3/3/23)

The MOTORCITY JUKEBOX Of Individual Artist CD's [[Philles/Motown Gary, 3/10/23)

Motorcity: Soul Giant 4 CD Box Set: New Backgrounds [[Westgrandboulevard, 3/12/23)

Hattie Littles - Touch Me In The Morning [[Mysterysinger, 3/23/23)

The Valadiers - "No Competition" [[Mysterysinger, 3/24/23)

Motorcity "Divas" And Other Fun Releases [[Philles/Motown Gary, 3/24/23)

If I've inadvertently left out anyone's recent thread, please PM me and let me know.

This Motorcity thread, "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vols. 1-20)" is actually our new MOTORCITY FORUM. And it's a nice welcome mat for newcomers. Ralph reportedly feels that the thread is not top-heavy, as some of us had thought, and he wants us to conduct all of our posting within this MOTORCITY FORUM thread [[not unlike the DRATS Forum).

In the meantime, I'm pleased that we have a legitimate MOTORCITY FORUM of our own! And I hope you're all pleased as well!

Please feel free to start posting below to your hearts' content!

- Philles/Motown Gary & Kenny

[Boogiedown]

Hi Gary
Is this what you want done??

here are three ways to consider [I'd be glad to help]

Existing Motorcity Threads:

#1 - More On Motorcity - 1990 EU Launch And 25 Volume CD Series [[Mysterysinger, 2/24/'23) LINK [[https://soulfuldetroit.com/showthread.php?30558-More-on-motorcity-1990-eu-launch-and-25-volume-cd-series)

#2 - How I Discovered The Musical World Of Ian Levine [[Philles/Motown Gary, 2/25/'23)
[[http://https://soulfuldetroit.com/showthread.php?30560-How-I-Discovered-the-Musical-World-of-Ian-Levine-Philles-Motown-Gary)LINK: How I Discovered The Musical World Of Ian Levine [[Philles/Motown Gary, 2/25/'23
[[https://soulfuldetroit.com/showthread.php?30560-How-I-Discovered-the-Musical-World-of-Ian-Levine-Philles-Motown-Gary)
#3 - Motorcity 2023 - Vol. 1 [[Soren1974, 3/3/23)
https://soulfuldetroit.com/showthread.php?30586-Motorcity-2023-Vol-1 [[https://soulfuldetroit.com/showthread.php?30586-Motorcity-2023-Vol-1)



[[http://https://soulfuldetroit.com/showthread.php?30560-How-I-Discovered-the-Musical-World-of-Ian-Levine-Philles-Motown-Gary)

[9A]

Whew, Boogiedown! Very cool. Thanks for rescuing me.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

To Boogie & 9A:

Boogie, thanks! I like #3 best, as that's what I'm most familiar with.

And,

9A Thank you, too! It sounds like that "rescue!" is okay with you as well? Ha!

Let me pass this along to my technical boss, Kenny. I think his technical concerns, however, run far deeper than the various link examples shown above. He's about to send his technical concerns to me which I'll forward to you, 9A. Then, when you reply to his concerns, I'll forward them to him. [[I'm sorry, but I feel like I'm getting caught between a technical tug of war about which I know nothing. I'm technically challenged. Period! Never been a secret! As can clearly be seen in my threads, presenting the music is where my heart is, and it's where my talents lie.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

My wording on a prior post was not quite right. This Motorcity thread, "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vols. 1-20)" is actually our new gateway into the various MOTORCITY RECORDS threads. It's not a sub-forum or pretending to be, but we'll use this pinned post to add links to other threads or music of interest to Motorcity fans. And it's a nice welcome mat for newcomers.

In the meantime, I'm pleased that we have so much interest in the topic of MOTORCITY RECORDS! And I hope you're all pleased as well!

So please feel free to start posting below or adding threads related to this topic as the music moves you!

- Philles/Motown Gary & Kenny

[Philles/Motown Gary]

* TO ALL IAN LEVINE MOTORCITY RECORDS ENTHUSIASTS *

Ralph has agreed to let us use Kenny's and my "Best Of Motorcity [[Vols. 1-20)" thread as the Entrance Door to the MOTORCITY threads! Unlike the unfriendly alternate "Motor City" Forum thread right next to this one [[which Ralph tried to remove but wasn't able to), "Best Of Motorcity [[Vols. 1-20)" is highly welcoming and informative. Hopefully, our MOTORCITY threads will survive and thrive here in our new location!

NOTE: KENNY
Here is a list of the Motorcity thread titles which Ralph recently moved from the Motown Forum to the Soulful Detroit Forum [[listed in the order in which they were created) They'll have to be LINKED, as Boogie was offering to do. [[See his post following mine.)

More On Motorcity - 1990 EU Launch And 25 Volume CD Series [[Mysterysinger, 2/24/23)

How I Discovered The Musical World Of Ian Levine [[Philles/Motown Gary, 2/25/23)

Motorcity 2023 - Vol. 1 [[Soren1974, 3/3/23)

The MOTORCITY JUKEBOX Of Individual Artist CD's [[Philles/Motown Gary, 3/10/23)

Motorcity: Soul Giant 4 CD Box Set: New Backgrounds [[Westgrandboulevard, 3/12/23)

Hattie Littles - Touch Me In The Morning [[Mysterysinger, 3/23/23)

The Valadiers - "No Competition" [[Mysterysinger, 3/24/23)

Motorcity "Divas" And Other Fun Releases [[Philles/Motown Gary, 3/24/23)

If I've inadvertently left out anyone's recent thread, please PM me and let me know.

This Motorcity thread, "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vols. 1-20)", is merely our new MOTORCITY introductory thread -- NOT an actual forum. Still, it's a nice welcome mat for newcomers.

Please feel free to start posting below like we've always done -- just do it in the Soulful Detroit Forum -- sadly, NOT in the Motown Forum.

- Philles/Motown Gary & Kenny

This works, Kenny. [[And, no, that message I had left was from a few days ago. As it turns out, my message is all wrong now. The "Best Of Motorcity [[Vols. 1-20)" will not be an actual forum -- just a welcome thread to get potential fans in the door

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Good news, Motorcity fans! "DIVAS 2" has arrived and will be available for your musical enjoyment soon! VERY soon!

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Here is the link to the DIVAS 2 thread. Enjoy!

https://soulfuldetroit.com/showthread.php?30753-DIVAS-2-Philles-Motown-Gary

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Here is the link to an update on the Motorcity Individual Artist Jukebox - the great JJ Barnes "Very Best of the Motorcity Recordings."

After linking, scroll down and you'll find the JJ Barnes CD and links to its selections on YouTube.

https://soulfuldetroit.com/showthread.php?30620-The-MOTORCITY-JUKEBOX-Of-Individual-Artist-CD-s/page2

[BritishTony]

Motorcity produced several tracks of female Motown singers with sassy, feisty, fun rap introductions in the tradition of Shirley Brown, Millie Jackson, Doris Duke et al. My absolute favourites: Hattie Littles’ Ten Percent, Saundra Edwards’ Out On The Street, Barbara McNair’s You’re Gonna Love My Baby, Vermettya Royster’s If I Were Your Woman. Any others?

[westgrandboulevard]

Well, there is Hattie's 'One Too Many Reasons' [see my recent post on the Hattie Littles thread..:)]...

Saundra Edwards' 'Forget It'...

Linda Griner's 'Prime Time Lover' ...

...and also the complete 'a cappella' version of her 'Too Late For Tears'.....

[Philles/Motown Gary]

Motorcity produced several tracks of female Motown singers with sassy, feisty, fun rap introductions in the tradition of Shirley Brown, Millie Jackson, Doris Duke et al. My absolute favourites: Hattie Littles’ Ten Percent, Saundra Edwards’ Out On The Street, Barbara McNair’s You’re Gonna Love My Baby, Vermettya Royster’s If I Were Your Woman. Any others?

Yeah, Tony! Those are fun and sassy! One of my favorites is Barbara Randolph's "Chasing The Hurt Away". "I told you a thousand times you couldn't treat me that way. And I've watched you leave and close that door behind you, but a thousand times you came back with that silly grin... you came back into my life. Sometimes you bring flowers, sometimes you bring candy...But that's not gonna make up for the pain you put me through... There's a new day coming. I'm changing all the locks on the doors, and I'm also canceling your subscription to Ebony mag! I'm taking your name off the mailbox. Don't say I didn't warn you!"

.https://youtu.be/0M3MZdral8U

[westgrandboulevard]

Well, there is Hattie's 'One Too Many Reasons' [see my recent post on the Hattie Littles thread..:)]...

Saundra Edwards' 'Forget It'...

Linda Griner's 'Prime Time Lover' ...

...and also the complete 'a cappella' version of her 'Too Late For Tears'.....


One more for the list.....just while listening to it right now.....

Kim Weston, 'It Should Have Been Me'......

The monologue which opens....

"Girls, you know how it is....
You have a man in your liiiife......"

Sassy is the only word for it....:)

[BritishTony]

The Cream Of The Crop: These 3 separate volumes of original 12 inch mixes are truly worth seeking out. So many outstanding tracks such as Pat Lewis’ Separation, Lynda Laurence’s Living With A Married Man, Billy Griffin’s Technicolour. But my two absolute favourites are Chuck Jackson’s magnificent All Over The World whose 12 inch version I wish was even longer it’s such a comfortable groove and G.C. Cameron’s uplifting anthem Good Times Up Ahead. The latter got me through a real rough patch in my life and G.C. is in amazing voice.

[westgrandboulevard]

BritishTony,

Yes, I agree, those three 'Cream Of The Crop' volumes are indeed 'truly worth seeking out'.

I have often wondered why they were selected, and by whom, as 'Cream' above all the other recorded tracks, if sales were not particularly strong.

Was it just a personal choice....or for some other reason.....

How I agree about 'All Over The World'....and I still have yet to identify that strong female background voice who, IMO, totally sells that chorus.

And also wondered if that track, originally released on Nightmare label, was recorded using a different computer from the 'Fairlight', which I believe was used for the majority of the Motorcity releases. To my ears, it has a different, lighter feel....those soaring violin sounds come really close to the real thing...

And yes, G C. Cameron just takes 'Good Times Up Ahead' exuberantly by the scruff of its neck, and sounds as if he is singing it with a great big smile on his face....a very infectious performance....:)

[BritishTony]

Hi westgrandboulevard,
Turns out the female backing voices on All Over The World are Tracy Ackerman, Jill Saward, Jackie Raw. Wow, some of the heaviest hitters of UK’s session singers [[and they’ve had their own solo releases). Motorcity certainly went top-drawer on all their backing vocals. I can’t figure out which of the three is the voice that cuts through so strongly as you point out though.

[westgrandboulevard]

BritishTony,

Yes indeed...and I have tried to positively identify which one it is of those three ladies from the UK, and who recorded background vocals for Motorcity ...but the 12" single does not yield any clues.

Are you sure they are all to be heard on 'All Over The World' - ?

Jackie Rawe was with Shakatak, then replaced by Jill Saward. Have listened to them all on solo work and, to date, Tracey Ackerman seemed most likely...but am still not fully convinced.

Whoever it is [if indeed it is just one voice] she is also clearly heard on 'You're So Fantastic' by C. P. Spencer... 'I Dig Everything About You' by Billy Eckstine...and others....

[BritishTony]

Hi again westgrandboulevard,
All 3 were specifically confirmed on that track yesterday by an impeccable source – Mr Levine himself [[via his FB a/c). So I don’t doubt it. But I agree one voice rises above the others magnificently. I’ll take your hunch on Tracy Ackerman – you have better ears than me on this.
Motorcity sure had the cream of background vocals: Billy Griffin, Edwin Starr, Pat Lewis, I think Sylvia Moy, Marv Johnson and several others unknown to me all cheerfully contributed – in the true Motown spirit! I say again: wow!

[westgrandboulevard]

Hi again westgrandboulevard,
All 3 were specifically confirmed on that track yesterday by an impeccable source – Mr Levine himself [[via his FB a/c). So I don’t doubt it. But I agree one voice rises above the others magnificently. I’ll take your hunch on Tracy Ackerman – you have better ears than me on this.
Motorcity sure had the cream of background vocals: Billy Griffin, Edwin Starr, Pat Lewis, I think Sylvia Moy, Marv Johnson and several others unknown to me all cheerfully contributed – in the true Motown spirit! I say again: wow!

Well then, BritishTony, that's certainly good enough for me!

I do very little on FB, but now feel I should regularly check out Ian L's page.

And let's not forget that Carolyn Crawford seemed to do all her own background vocals...and also can be heard on Frances Nero's 'You Are The Sunshine Of My Life' - most prominently, the original version from 'Out On The Floor' album.

More mystery.....

'Come On And See Me' by Pat Lewis: - female background voices sound like Pat herself...but with what sounds like The Andantes on the right channel, together with a male voice heard on the chorus line 'come on and see me now'...and I have always wondered who that male voice is.....

Ronnie McNeir's 'Ten Times A Day'...who is the female vocalist there....
and also... who is the male background voice heard on the right channel of 'Take The First Step'...'take the first step, and you will find, I really want your body, all of the time'... as it sounds very similar to the male voice on 'Come On And See Me'....and so it goes on. :)

[westgrandboulevard]

20369

20370

20371

MOTORCITY HTCD 7752-2
V.A.- "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 19)"
[[Compilation 1997)

THE VANDELLAS
5) "Not Gonna Be Ready"
[Producer: Ian Levine & I.J. Hunter
https://youtu.be/TDuXMvQ3Zbg



July 4th:

Happy Birthday to Annette.....:)

[westgrandboulevard]

MOTORCITY HTCD 7748-2
V.A.- "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 15)"
[[Compilation 1997)


BILLY ECKSTINE
6) "Ask The Lonely"
[[W. Stevenson - I.J. Hunter)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/gdoVgLytlJE


July 8th:

On his Birthday, remembering Billy Eckstine [William Clarence Eckstine; 1914-1993].....

[westgrandboulevard]

MOTORCITY HTCD 7703
V.A. - "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 3)"[[Compilation 1994)

EARL VAN DYKE
16) "'Detroit City"
[[Ian Levine - S. Wagner)
Producer: Ian Levine
https://youtu.be/i0VKcKIQSSo


July 8th:

On his Birthday, remembering Earl Van Dyke [1930-1992]......

[westgrandboulevard]

20318

20319

20320

MOTORCITY HTCD 7702
V.A. - "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 2)"[[Compilation 1994)


CHUCK JACKSON
1) "All Over The World"
[Producer: Ian Levine & Rick Gianatos
https://youtu.be/V6cLOzG0IEI


July 22nd:

On his Birthday, remembering Chuck Jackson [1937-2023]........

[westgrandboulevard]

20333

20334

20335


MOTORCITY HTCD 7707-2
V.A. - "The Best Of Motorcity [[Vol. 7)"[[Compilation 1995)


MICKEY DENTON
15) "Fighting Back"

[I]Producer: Ian Levine & Timothy King
https://youtu.be/0RjYi2qxYKg



August 6th:

Happy Birthday to Mickey Denton....:)