Aretha Franklin's early career marked the beginning of a legendary journey that profoundly impacted soul music. Rising to fame in the 1960s, she signed with Atlantic Records and released iconic hits like "Respect" and "Think." Aretha's powerful voice, soulful delivery, and gospel roots revolutionized the music scene, earning her the title "Queen of Soul." Her unmatched vocal talent, emotional depth, and unwavering spirit continue to inspire generations of artists and fans, solidifying her legacy as a true soul music icon.

Barrett Strong, the driving force at Motown Records as one of its first signed artists as well as providing vocals for its first major hit “Money” has passed away at the age of 81.

Alongside Norman Whitfield, he would pen lyrics for some of their greatest hits. The iconic “War” recorded by Edwin Starr, “I Heard It Through The Grapevine” recorded my Marvin Gaye and Gladys Knight and the Pips, and a number songs by The Temptations including “Papa was a Rollin’ Stone” and “Just My Imagination”.

Michael Jackson and the Jackson Five were first introduced to the world by Diana Ross August 11, 1969 at a Hollywood style press conference at The Daisy in Beverly Hills. After gaining momentum from performances at the Apollo, contests, talent shows and local benefits, they now had found massive support from Miss Ross, Berry Gordy and Motown seeing their undeniable potential and talent.

Almost exactly a year later on August 10, 1970, SOUL Newspaper, the preeminent source for soul music news would feature a young Michael Jackson on its cover making it the publication's all time best selling issue. Today is the 52 Anniversary of that issue and thought it fitting to dive a little deeper in to the history of these iconic pieces of publication history.

The Marvelettes were Motown Record's second success after the Miracles and the label's first momentously successful girl group. The original lineup consisting of Gladys Horton, Katherine Anderson, Georgeanna Tillman, Juanita Cowart and Georgia Dobbins would go through many changes over the years. Being successful was no easy task and making it as a Black Female group at that time came with even more barriers to entry.

Aretha Franklin was one of the most dynamic soul singers of all time. She passed away from pancreatic cancer August 16, 2018 but her legacy continues to shine. Time magazine named her one of the 100 most influential people in its original 1998 special. Know as the "Queen of Soul", Franklin held the record For Billboard Hot 100 singles by a woman for 40 years, was awarded 17 Grammys, was the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, performed "My Country 'Tis of Thee" at the the first Inauguration of President Barack Obama and held honorary doctorates from Harvard and Yale amongst a mountain of other accomplishments.

Originally dubbed "Little Stevie Wonder", Stevland Morris was born May 13, 1950 in Saginaw Michigan. The middle of six children, Stevie Wonder was born with a dislocated optical nerve causing blindness.

Stevie Wonder is an unmatched pioneer of music who's SOUL continues to influence artists across all genres.

His first major success "Fingertips" catapulted his career early in his life. Years later at Crystal Studios he would begin to develop "Songs in the Key of Life". This 18th recording by Stevie Wonder would go on to be considered one of the greatest albums of all time.

Early Motown Records legend Tammi Terrell Passed away at the young age of 24 from brain cancer but her legacy lives on. SOUL Newspaper had the oppourtinuty to follow Miss Terrell's career during the years 1966 to her death in 1970. There were frequent interviews and articles with Tammi as well as updates on her medical condidtion that was being tightly held under wraps by Motown.

Tammi Terrell exploded onto the soul music scene in the late 1960s. Most notably known for her duets with Marvin Gaye, Terrell’s voice is ever present in some of Motown Records’ most enduring songs.

Today we heard of the passing of Max Julien. He was an actor who’s talents challenged the Hollywood depictions of Black Men at the time.

Chaka Khan and Stephanie Mills Verzuz