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Motown Sound

The Motown Sound is a distinctive style of soul and R&B music that emerged in Detroit in the late 1950s and early 1960s. It features catchy melodies, vocal harmonies, and a polished, danceable rhythm. The production emphasizes a steady beat, memorable hooks, and tight arrangements, often with a prominent bassline and tambourine. The sound was crafted to appeal broadly, crossing racial barriers, and was popularized by artists like The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, and Stevie Wonder. Motown's signature style combines soulful emotion with sleek, accessible production, making it one of the most influential musical movements in history.