  Paulmcall Member Username: Paulmcall Post Number: 733 Registered: 05-2004 Posted From: 68.40.119.216 |
Who has your vote for best singer, musician etc. from Detroit? | ||
Gannon Member Username: Gannon Post Number: 5984 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 70.236.198.22 |
Stevie Wonder count? First four years in Saginaw...according to this. | ||
Focusonthed Member Username: Focusonthed Post Number: 282 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 24.192.25.47 |
Absolutely not Jack White. | ||
7even Member Username: 7even Post Number: 43 Registered: 03-2006 Posted From: 198.109.26.19 |
Vincent Damon Furnier ...Rock on | ||
Gary Member Username: Gary Post Number: 137 Registered: 02-2004 Posted From: 75.10.19.179 |
Start with Aretha and go from there. | ||
Aaron Member Username: Aaron Post Number: 109 Registered: 12-2004 Posted From: 69.241.224.171 |
John Lee Hooker. | ||
Tkelly1986 Member Username: Tkelly1986 Post Number: 83 Registered: 01-2004 Posted From: 71.201.190.23 |
I second Vincent Damon Furnier........or possibly Terrible Ted Nugent | ||
Rosedaleken Member Username: Rosedaleken Post Number: 191 Registered: 06-2005 Posted From: 68.43.122.151 |
Anita Baker | ||
Chitaku Member Username: Chitaku Post Number: 495 Registered: 03-2006 Posted From: 68.43.107.72 |
Jack White!! | ||
Gdub Member Username: Gdub Post Number: 1045 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 4.229.63.159 |
Meg White. | ||
Haydenth Member Username: Haydenth Post Number: 182 Registered: 05-2005 Posted From: 68.61.195.159 |
Uncle Kracker. | ||
Royce Member Username: Royce Post Number: 1650 Registered: 07-2004 Posted From: 69.209.163.57 |
Leon Redbone. | ||
Deputy_mayor_2026 Member Username: Deputy_mayor_2026 Post Number: 83 Registered: 04-2006 Posted From: 152.163.100.8 |
Definitely Diana Ross. And if you don't think so, then try and beat eighteen number one singles! | ||
Cabasse Member Username: Cabasse Post Number: 5 Registered: 01-2006 Posted From: 69.133.90.28 |
sufjan stevens | ||
Erobtheone Member Username: Erobtheone Post Number: 32 Registered: 08-2005 Posted From: 65.202.29.180 |
Esham Erob Chicago by way of Detroit | ||
Lmichigan Member Username: Lmichigan Post Number: 3905 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 24.11.154.56 |
Deputy Mayor, that's like saying Britney Spears is the best talent because of her sales. Sorry, but Diana Ross was much like the modern pop princesses: lots of catchy hooks and tunes, but low in the skill/talent department. Detroit has a lot to choose from, though. (Message edited by lmichigan on June 22, 2006) | ||
Jjw Member Username: Jjw Post Number: 116 Registered: 10-2005 Posted From: 68.33.56.156 |
First Place: Aretha.----Second Place: Aretha on a bad day. Third Place: Aretha singing in the shower And Last Place: Aretha's shadow | ||
Miss_cleo Member Username: Miss_cleo Post Number: 244 Registered: 05-2005 Posted From: 69.47.85.139 |
Bob Seger, Ted Nugent | ||
Gannon Member Username: Gannon Post Number: 5990 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 70.236.198.22 |
Jjw, LOL. You got a thing for Aretha, huh?! I didn't know Leon Redbone was from here. Have we accepted Stevie after age four as a Detroiter, yet? Judges?! | ||
Bongman Member Username: Bongman Post Number: 1123 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 198.111.56.128 |
Best Male...a tie between Jackie Wilson & Marvin Gaye. Best Female...Aretha, the Queen of Soul. Best Musician...Drummer Elvin Jones | ||
1953 Member Username: 1953 Post Number: 890 Registered: 12-2004 Posted From: 209.104.146.146 |
Aretha sucks. Anyone else but Aretha. | ||
56packman Member Username: 56packman Post Number: 411 Registered: 12-2005 Posted From: 129.9.163.105 |
Richard Whiting Look him up on google | ||
Pffft Member Username: Pffft Post Number: 1017 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 71.144.119.169 |
Aretha was born in Memphis. Moved here at 3. | ||
Merchantgander Member Username: Merchantgander Post Number: 1945 Registered: 01-2005 Posted From: 150.198.150.244 |
That is one big shadow. | ||
Super_d Member Username: Super_d Post Number: 924 Registered: 08-2005 Posted From: 70.88.106.173 |
'L.Michigan' responding on Diana Ross,....
'L.Michigan' has stooped to new lows! Here's a few choices.... Ron Banks and L.J.Reynolds of the Dramatics. No question, Stevie and Aretha is at the top of the list! super d(motordetroit) | ||
Goat Member Username: Goat Post Number: 8572 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 70.54.68.239 |
Marvin Gaye. | ||
Pam Member Username: Pam Post Number: 271 Registered: 11-2005 Posted From: 67.107.47.65 |
I don't know if they were the best ever, but they were better than some of the people mentioned so far: MC5 | ||
Jjw Member Username: Jjw Post Number: 118 Registered: 10-2005 Posted From: 68.33.56.156 |
Merchant---agreed--lol---one hell of a big shadow----enough to engulf Ms.Ross and that squeaky voice of hers!!! | ||
Jjw Member Username: Jjw Post Number: 119 Registered: 10-2005 Posted From: 68.33.56.156 |
no one mentioned Martha Reeves???? wondering why???? | ||
Jjw Member Username: Jjw Post Number: 120 Registered: 10-2005 Posted From: 68.33.56.156 |
Marvin Gaye actually spent most of his life in DC so I am not quite sure he would count. But I would vote for him for top male if so. | ||
Fury13 Member Username: Fury13 Post Number: 1125 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 69.222.11.226 |
Worth a mention, and in no particular order: John Lee Hooker Little Willie John Hank Ballard Aaron "Little Sonny" Willis Jack Scott Jackie Wilson William "Smokey" Robinson Nolan Strong Nathaniel Mayer Kenny Burrell Dennis Coffey Bob Seger (Ann Arbor) Iggy (Ann Arbor) Barbara Lewis (South Lyon) Aretha Franklin George Clinton James Jamerson (Message edited by Fury13 on June 22, 2006) | ||
Smogboy Member Username: Smogboy Post Number: 3183 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 69.47.100.44 |
I know this might not be the most popular of choices but what about our prominent little rap artist that's been making headlines again, Eminem? Now granted he might not be the most gifted musically (and my apologies for diverging from the main crux of this thread) but his influence has spread and he has enabled other Detroit artists to rise to the limelight. | ||
Smogboy Member Username: Smogboy Post Number: 3184 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 69.47.100.44 |
I think one of my personal choices would have to be the Funk Brothers. Sure sure they were background guys for the most part but they were some immensely talented folks that never really got much recognition until recently. I can't remember where I saw a list recently but it showed on just how many top 40 hits they played on and it blew my mind. | ||
Ed_golick Member Username: Ed_golick Post Number: 271 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 69.246.55.51 |
George Young and the Youngsters!  | ||
Cklwbig8 Member Username: Cklwbig8 Post Number: 74 Registered: 02-2005 Posted From: 69.156.93.4 |
Diana Ross ?? lol she didn't have talent. she sang songs that were written for her and the awesome funk brothers provided an excellent rythm section which made the song a hit. most talent.. JAMES JAMERSON BASS FUNK BROTHER HALL OF FAMER BENNY BENJAMIN DRUMS FUNK BROTHER HALL OF FAMER SMOKEY RONBINSON MARVIN GAYE STEVIE WONDER THE FUNK BROTHERS PRODUCED MORE #1 HITS THAN BEATLES, STONES, BEACH BOYS, ELVIS COMBINED !!!! | ||
Cklwbig8 Member Username: Cklwbig8 Post Number: 75 Registered: 02-2005 Posted From: 69.156.93.4 |
Deputy_mayor_2026 actually the Supremes have 12 or 13 #1 singles not 18. | ||
Aholloway Member Username: Aholloway Post Number: 87 Registered: 11-2003 Posted From: 68.42.244.36 |
Aaliyah Aretha Franklin Anita Baker Stevie Wonder Marvin Gaye Diana Ross | ||
Tåla Member Username: Tåla Post Number: 62 Registered: 05-2005 Posted From: 68.41.164.3 |
The best female jazz singer Betty Carter. I know, I know born in Flint. | ||
Spacemonkey Member Username: Spacemonkey Post Number: 45 Registered: 03-2006 Posted From: 63.102.87.27 |
Cub Koda / Brownsville Station | ||
Jimg Member Username: Jimg Post Number: 627 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 64.12.116.204 |
Don't worry about it Tala, she cut her teeth in the D, as did Hank Thad and Elvin. Trying to decide on the 'best' musical talent from a city as musically fertile as Detroit is well nigh impossible...pick yer decade...and the criteria...Det got the goods. Thing that's always intrigued me is "why". Used to be the educational system was a major factor (is it still??) or is it the culture? | ||
Steve Member Username: Steve Post Number: 12 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 89.0.176.50 |
Can't have a thread like this without Mitch Ryder getting at least a mention. And Marshall Crenshaw, too. | ||
Bongman Member Username: Bongman Post Number: 1127 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 198.111.56.128 |
I always figured it was because our town was one of the true places in America where different cultures had a place to collide. We are exposed to everything, and what comes out gets influenced by the same variety. Could be the water we're drinking though. | ||
1953 Member Username: 1953 Post Number: 892 Registered: 12-2004 Posted From: 209.104.146.146 |
Margaret Whiting http://music.yahoo.com/ar-2689 38-bio--Margaret-Whiting | ||
Gannon Member Username: Gannon Post Number: 6016 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 70.236.198.22 |
Don't leave out spiritual causes and effects...may be something to that Spirit of Detroit. | ||
Douglasm Member Username: Douglasm Post Number: 577 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 66.189.188.28 |
Gino Washington | ||
56packman Member Username: 56packman Post Number: 412 Registered: 12-2005 Posted From: 129.9.163.234 |
Ruth Laredo | ||
Harpernottingham Member Username: Harpernottingham Post Number: 70 Registered: 04-2006 Posted From: 66.178.227.202 |
Marshall Crenshaw? He's from Berkley. Jackie Wilson? Love him! But he's from Highland Park. Same goes for Hank Ballard. Marvin? No one quite like him, but he's from the District of Columbia. 'Retha? What a voice, of course, and all those great years on Atlantic. But I say it's a toss-up between Stevie Wonder and Smokey Robinson. I'll go with Stevie, but just barely. As for the Funks, they're the best band in Detroit -- ever! Bar none. Long live Pistol Allen! Oh, and as for Eminem ... never heard of him. | ||
Bongman Member Username: Bongman Post Number: 1129 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 198.111.56.128 |
How can you go thru all that and pick Stevie ? He was born in Saginaw. | ||
Gannon Member Username: Gannon Post Number: 6017 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 70.236.198.22 |
Covered in post two of this thread... | ||
Mrsocks2002 Member Username: Mrsocks2002 Post Number: 8 Registered: 03-2006 Posted From: 69.212.63.184 |
gimme dat harp, ladies: Alice Coltrane, Dorothy Ashby, Zeena Parkins. | ||
Cklwbig8 Member Username: Cklwbig8 Post Number: 76 Registered: 02-2005 Posted From: 69.156.93.4 |
the Funks were the best band in the world as far as i'm concerned. the greatest hit machine that is.. | ||
Zulu_warrior Member Username: Zulu_warrior Post Number: 2890 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 68.251.27.41 |
Dianne Reeves Greg Phillinganes Leroy Hyter Aaliyah Carl Craig Derrick May Kevin Saunderson The Rev. James Cleavland Donnie McLurlkin The Winans Family The Clark Sisters | ||
Thursdaynext Member Username: Thursdaynext Post Number: 203 Registered: 04-2006 Posted From: 70.227.206.104 |
What, no love for "Detroits own Romantics'? I do love these guys and they're playing July 21st for GM's, Rockin on the Riverfront concert series. I plan to be there. What about Alice Cooper? Another Detroit rock 'n' roller. Ok, hardly a fave of mine, but we haven't touched all that much on rock 'n' roll here. Overall best/most talented...Funk Brothers get my vote! | ||
Chub Member Username: Chub Post Number: 333 Registered: 11-2003 Posted From: 68.42.79.205 |
Stevie Wonder is great at every instrument he plays. Oh, and he can sing too. | ||
Czar Member Username: Czar Post Number: 3132 Registered: 11-2003 Posted From: 129.137.199.171 |
Stevie Wonder is instantly disqualified for writing "I Just Called To Say I Love You". | ||
Thursdaynext Member Username: Thursdaynext Post Number: 204 Registered: 04-2006 Posted From: 70.227.206.104 |
Thanks a lot Czar, now I can't get that crappy-assed song out of my head. Arrgghh! | ||
1953 Member Username: 1953 Post Number: 895 Registered: 12-2004 Posted From: 209.104.146.146 |
From High Fidelity: "Rob, top five musical crimes perpetuated by Stevie Wonder in the '80s and '90s. Go. Sub-question: is it in fact unfair to criticize a formerly great artist for his latter day sins, is it better to burn out or fade away?" | ||
Rosedaleken Member Username: Rosedaleken Post Number: 197 Registered: 06-2005 Posted From: 68.43.122.151 |
Zulu, good call. Karen Clark Sheard is amazing. Aaliyah was hot, and a really good person from all accounts, but I thought her voice was just average. Maybe just me though. | ||
Tkelly1986 Member Username: Tkelly1986 Post Number: 86 Registered: 01-2004 Posted From: 68.251.56.124 |
What about best talent that actually wrote their own music.....that would eliminate a bunch of these people from motown; also, I heard a rumor that on the released single, thats not even Aretha singing RESPECT. Not 100% sure if that is true though....Still, my vote goes for Vincent Furnire (Alice Cooper)or Ted Nugent | ||
Detroit313 Member Username: Detroit313 Post Number: 89 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 72.229.136.103 |
I like this game. But let's establish that although entertainers on the DETROIT list may not have been born in DETROIT, they surely got their inspiration from DETROIT. So I give you my first pick and go with Berry Gordy. I know, I know he was the Executivve producer for most of the early Motown hits, but let's not forget that he was first a song writer for Jackie Wilson before he started a label that has forever changed the sound of music and a city's name. So if producing and creating is a category than Berry is my selection, if not than I have to go with StevieMadonnaArethaDianaEmimen SegerIggyRockMarvinCooperAaliy ahClintonWinansEnchantmentTemp tations | ||
Eastsidedog Member Username: Eastsidedog Post Number: 565 Registered: 03-2006 Posted From: 12.47.224.8 |
I think talent is overrated. I always think that originality and influence are more important. There are many talented musicians that aren't that original or important in the grand scheme of things. My list would be something like: The Funk Brothers Stevie Wonder Juan Atkins Jeff Mills Ritchie Hawtin (even though he's from Windsor) Underground Resistance Patti Smith Iggy Pop MC5 and dare I say even though I'm not really a fan: Eminem (not in any particular order) | ||
Eastsidedog Member Username: Eastsidedog Post Number: 566 Registered: 03-2006 Posted From: 12.47.224.8 |
Oh yeah, and whether you like em or not they were groundbreaking and totally wierd and different (well and still are today): Insane Clown Posse | ||
Thursdaynext Member Username: Thursdaynext Post Number: 213 Registered: 04-2006 Posted From: 70.227.206.104 |
Sonny Bono?? | ||
Pam Member Username: Pam Post Number: 272 Registered: 11-2005 Posted From: 4.229.141.252 |
I like Patti but I don't think Detroit can claim her. She was from NJ and her early sucess was in NY. She only lived here after she married Fred Sonic Smith and started her family. After he died she left the state. | ||
7milekid Member Username: 7milekid Post Number: 97 Registered: 01-2006 Posted From: 68.61.161.193 |
Insane Clown Posse JUGGALOS! | ||
Ravine Member Username: Ravine Post Number: 185 Registered: 01-2006 Posted From: 70.141.77.3 |
Not into naming a Numero Uno, but could Tommy Flanagan get some love around here? | ||
Pffft Member Username: Pffft Post Number: 1018 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 71.144.119.169 |
Not Aretha on "Respect" ...riiiiight. That's a new wacko conspiracy theory. Funny how the real Aretha was able to replicate that one of a kind voice all these years. Boy she sure has us fooled. Best out of Detroit: Little Willie John Stevie Wonder Aretha Joe Messina, James Jamerson, Earl Van Dyke, Benny Benjamin, Pistol Allen, Uriel Jones, Eddie Willis, Robert White, Joe Hunter...the original Funk Brothers. The Jones brothers Smokey Robinson Yusef Lateef | ||
Detroitej72 Member Username: Detroitej72 Post Number: 8 Registered: 05-2006 Posted From: 66.184.3.44 |
What about Marcus Belgrave? Not sure if he was born here though... I also think we should include Otis Williams and Melvin "Blue" Franklin from the Tempting Temptations. Though I'd have to give the overall title to John Lee Hooker because he was around the longest and his music still stands the test of time. | ||
Dave Member Username: Dave Post Number: 93 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 71.244.168.177 |
I'm still stuck on JimG's question. The Detroit educational systm had a lot to do with developing the talent 50 or 60 years ago. is it still having an impact? dave | ||
Ravine Member Username: Ravine Post Number: 187 Registered: 01-2006 Posted From: 70.141.77.3 |
Oh yeah!! Speaking of our schoolz, Ralph Armstrong (Det. NWern)is a MFer on bass, too. But so was Paul Chambers. | ||
Jimg Member Username: Jimg Post Number: 628 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 64.12.116.204 |
Marcus is from Chester, PA, parked here after leaving Bro. Ray in the 60s...nice to read mentions of Dorothy Ashby and Alice Coltrane (nee McCloud) who wasn't a half bad singer, so I was told, during her stay with the Premiers, which included George Bohanon. George will be at jazzfest this year. But Alice was/is one bad MF on piano, check out her Bud-influenced chops with Terry Gibbs. And Terry Pollard, who preceded Alice in Gibbs' band, was just plain amazing on piano AND vibes...the Hobby Bar... As far as jazz goes, Det is always associated with pianists (thanks for mentioning Tommy Flanagan, a music master) but really the bass tradition is as strong: Mr PC, Strongarm Ralphe, Doug W, Rodney, Marion Hayden, Ron Carter (Ferndale, actually...), Al McKibbon. Really it ain't so much where yer born as where you grow up...good education, creative outlets, places to sit in and learn the ropes (without hanging yourself) are vital, don't matter what decade...Det has had fine teachers, like Louis Cabrera, Marcus and Roy Brooks, and a strong sense of community. Having gifted musicians remain in the city for a time inspires younger players, too. | ||
Taj920 Member Username: Taj920 Post Number: 108 Registered: 01-2004 Posted From: 68.42.252.205 |
How about that Ed McMahon guy --what other "Born in Detroiter" belted out a dittie on national TV every night for 30 years? | ||
Jimg Member Username: Jimg Post Number: 629 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 64.12.116.204 |
Oh jesus, must we include Ed McMahon when talking about musical talent, regardless of its origin??? | ||
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria Post Number: 596 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 64.12.116.204 |
Bob Seger. Born in Detroit moved to Dearborn then A2. He embodies the working class spirit of Michigan. His song 'Fire Lake' is one of my favorites. Reminds me of going up North as a young'n'. | ||
Dave Member Username: Dave Post Number: 94 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 71.244.168.177 |
I love so many Detroit musicians, but if I have to pick one...Bags! definately/ http://www.allaboutjazz.com/iv iews/mjackson.htm dave | ||
Dillpicklesoup Member Username: Dillpicklesoup Post Number: 75 Registered: 05-2006 Posted From: 64.7.187.137 |
eminem and kid rock | ||
Detroitplanner Member Username: Detroitplanner Post Number: 154 Registered: 04-2006 Posted From: 205.188.116.137 |
WHAT? NO KAREN NEWMAN??? are you mad? | ||
Kilgore_south Member Username: Kilgore_south Post Number: 104 Registered: 05-2005 Posted From: 12.191.129.2 |
As a Philly soul fanatic, I must point out that the Spinners were all actually Detroiters. But for true Detroit musicians it's hard to beat Aretha and Stevie (if he counts). | ||
Deputy_mayor_2026 Member Username: Deputy_mayor_2026 Post Number: 84 Registered: 04-2006 Posted From: 64.12.116.204 |
Diana Ross is not my favorite, just the one I view as most successful, and I did mess up on the number of #1s, but I am pretty sure it is still higher than any other musician from Detroit. However, I don't think it is fair to compare her to Spears. | ||
Pdtpuck Member Username: Pdtpuck Post Number: 70 Registered: 01-2006 Posted From: 208.251.168.194 |
What?!? Not one mention of Scott Morgan? He of The Rationals, Sonic's Rendezvous, Dodge Main, and several other great bands? OK, he's an AA native, but seeing some of the other entries... scott morgan bio Plus, he's done some great work with The Hellacopters, and if you like blue-eyed soul, check out The Solution...the first song kinda sucks, but the rest of the CD is superb! | ||
Pamequus Member Username: Pamequus Post Number: 55 Registered: 07-2005 Posted From: 158.229.218.204 |
Bob Seger.......Memories of Bob Seger, Grande Ballroom.....anyone remember Heavy Music??? | ||
56packman Member Username: 56packman Post Number: 418 Registered: 12-2005 Posted From: 129.9.163.234 |
TKelley1986--the whole singer/songwriter thing is a shackle around the neck of folk/rock/pop music. Berry Gordy/Motown (and thousands more on the coasts) have always understood that not every singer with great pipes can write a decent song, and not every great songwriter can sing (many can't carry a tune) but that great music can come from such collabrations. Is Neil Young a great singer?, not really, although he has a highly individual tone of voice. He writes some profound songs, though. I've never had a problem with singers that don't write their own songs. | ||
Iheartthed Member Username: Iheartthed Post Number: 114 Registered: 04-2006 Posted From: 64.131.176.232 |
Detroit really should try to reclaim the music industry... | ||
Gannon Member Username: Gannon Post Number: 6030 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 70.236.198.22 |
Since the judges are not chiming in...and I'm inspired by Livedog2's anarchist thread... ...I declare Stevie forgiven of his indiscretion of daring to be born AND raised through his potty training and subsequent discovery that there are more interesting places to live than Saginaw... ...as well as his thirty-something year exodus to Burbank... ...because he's been mentioned by more people than anyone else in this thread... ...and by me first. heh. ( NO, I didn't actually go back through and count, I'm really NOT interested in facts getting in the way of this major declaration... ) | ||
Mauser765 Member Username: Mauser765 Post Number: 840 Registered: 01-2004 Posted From: 4.229.54.218 |
MARVIN GAYE period. | ||
Pffft Member Username: Pffft Post Number: 1019 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 12.34.51.20 |
Much as I'd love to claim Marvin, he really didn't come here til adulthood...Washington, D.C. is his homeground. Stevie is ours. Three year olds aren't necessarily potty trained, and he might have been two when he got here. | ||
Eastsidedog Member Username: Eastsidedog Post Number: 571 Registered: 03-2006 Posted From: 12.47.224.8 |
Pam, you're right about Patti Smith [eliminated], she's so popular locally, I think of her as being from here. But, seriously are we talking only talent or is influence and originality important too? Are they seperable? I agree that Stevie Wonder should be at the top, but so should Juan Atkins (techno pioneer, coined the term "techno" to describe the music, unbelievable number of artists cite him as an influence, Night Drive is a classic! And he still puts out good stuff. Techno - a global phenomenon - wouldn't exist without him) (Message edited by eastsidedog on June 23, 2006) | ||
Gannon Member Username: Gannon Post Number: 6040 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 70.236.198.22 |
Absolutely...seems we'll have to yield a first in every 'category'...only let's not let it become exclusive. Wait a minute, isn't this what screwed up the record industry, allowing some of the best imaginative and creative talent to fall through the large gaps between categories?! They're ALL number one, each in our perceptions and tastes...and we ALL win for all of them having done their thing publicly. NOW, which of them consider Detroit as THEIR number one?! For that, I consider Marcus at the lead...his dedication for nurturing local talent seems boundless. | ||
Eastsidedog Member Username: Eastsidedog Post Number: 573 Registered: 03-2006 Posted From: 12.47.224.8 |
Gannon, techno pioneer Derrick May is dedicated to the city and still lives in Eastern Market (though he tours the world most of the time). Some of the funk brother's still live in the city. The other's are mostly long gone, if you counted I'd bet that most have been sucked into the black endless oblivion that is California...... Oh yeah, and Martha Reeves, Detroit is definitely her number one... | ||
Mauser765 Member Username: Mauser765 Post Number: 841 Registered: 01-2004 Posted From: 4.229.24.123 |
"Marvin, he really didn't come here til adulthood...Washington, D.C. is his homeground.Stevie is ours." Well the thread is about people from Detroit if you are going to be a literal hard ass about it. That excludes Wonder and 99% of the Funkbrothers too. Johnny Lee is from the south - Seger is from Ann Arbor along with the MC5 and the Stooges. So whatyou got now >? | ||
Czar Member Username: Czar Post Number: 3134 Registered: 11-2003 Posted From: 129.137.167.249 |
Smokey Robinson | ||
Gannon Member Username: Gannon Post Number: 6042 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 70.236.198.22 |
LOL, and at least a certain percentage of the populace agrees. ( too lazy to look up the election results ) | ||
Eastsidedog Member Username: Eastsidedog Post Number: 574 Registered: 03-2006 Posted From: 12.47.224.8 |
Gannon, you gotta give her credit. She ain't in Cali. What other Detroit musician has run for and held office serving the fine citizens of Detroit? | ||
Pffft Member Username: Pffft Post Number: 1021 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 12.34.51.20 |
Bob Seger was born in Henry Ford Hospital. His family didn't move to AA until later, he went to high school there. Stevie lived in Detroit from the age of two or three on. That doesn't compare with someone like Marvin Gaye or David Ruffin, who both came here as adults. It's different. They didn't incubate here. Stevie did. Aretha did, even though neither of them were born here. If you came as a toddler, you're in. And Seger is a native-born, "East Side Story" writing Detroit guy. | ||
Pffft Member Username: Pffft Post Number: 1022 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 12.34.51.20 |
p.s. MC5 from Ann Arbor? As if! They were all straight outta Lincoln Park. Sheesh, learn about the local legends. They lived in the Trans-Love house in AA AFTER their Cass Corridor years. | ||
Pam Member Username: Pam Post Number: 275 Registered: 11-2005 Posted From: 67.107.47.65 |
MC5 were from Lincoln Park and they did live in Detroit for a while before moving to A2. I think Iggy was from Ypsi. (oops pfft beat me to it) (Message edited by Pam on June 23, 2006) | ||
Mauser765 Member Username: Mauser765 Post Number: 844 Registered: 01-2004 Posted From: 4.229.69.80 |
Suddenly this thread is about nitpicky crap, I am very suprised by this development. | ||
Gary Member Username: Gary Post Number: 144 Registered: 02-2004 Posted From: 70.228.0.25 |
Is the criteria who was born and raised here or who achieved the most fame as a result of being here? The title of Paulmcall's original thread is "Who Was The Best Musical Talent From Detroit". Okay. So far, in the previous posts, I've seen about a half dozen names who should legitimately be considered for that title, the rest are just a bunch of well known artists who happen to have a Detroit connection, but most of them are not from here and most of them ain't no way the "Best Musical Talent From Detroit". Nobody has mentioned the pride of the North End, the Four Tops, so far. One of the premier vocal groups of all time with a string of Top 40 classics as long as your arm. All native born Detroiters who are still going strong on the concert circuit even though only Duke Fakir remains as the only original member still actively touring with the group. Right on Tops. Hank Ballard, Smokey Robinson and Jackie Wilson are also native Detroiters who are products of the North End...not to mention Sugar Ray Robinson. | ||
Pffft Member Username: Pffft Post Number: 1023 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 12.34.51.20 |
Little Willie John was a product of the northeast side, best friends with Levi Stubbs. Aretha lived in the North End too. | ||
Johnnny5 Member Username: Johnnny5 Post Number: 280 Registered: 06-2005 Posted From: 71.227.95.4 |
Stevie Wonder is definitely from Detroit. I had to spend every Sunday of my childhood listening to my grandmother tell stories about him beating on pots and pans half the day, and how he would walk down the street and holler "Hi Mrs. Rybski" even though he could'nt even see her sitting on the porch. After he became famous he would come back to the neighborhood and buy all the kids ice cream. | ||
Pffft Member Username: Pffft Post Number: 1025 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 69.221.69.175 |
Good stuff, Johnny...I have a friend who lived near Stevie's house, he remembers seeing him as a young boy, sitting on his porch waiting for a ride, wearing a ruffled, baby blue tuxedo. | ||
Douglasm Member Username: Douglasm Post Number: 580 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 66.189.188.28 |
There's always ex-Eagle Glen Frey, one of the few from that era that didn't play with Doug Brown, although he did sing backup on "Ramblin' Gambling Man". We could throw Suzi Quatro and her sisters....heck, why not the whole Pleasure Seekers. Garage at its best..... | ||
Pffft Member Username: Pffft Post Number: 1027 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 69.221.69.175 |
What, no Mike Quatro, Douglasm? (grin) | ||
Cellus Member Username: Cellus Post Number: 13 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 68.41.245.85 |
Aretha "The Queen Of Soul Franklin!!!!!! | ||
Jimg Member Username: Jimg Post Number: 630 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 205.188.116.137 |
Johnny, those memories are important to share 'cause they add another dimension to the artist...thanks. Gary, my man, please would you 'splain to me why being born in Det is absolutely vital? Yusef was born in Chattanooga but certainly Det and Miller High School nurtured his artistry...wonder what he'd have created had he not moved? Would have been quite different. What about Dougie Fieger's band? They had more talent than Ed McMahon... | ||
Gary Member Username: Gary Post Number: 147 Registered: 02-2004 Posted From: 70.228.0.25 |
What;s up Jim? I don't think being born in Detroit is vital, but earlier in the thread, several people pointed out that certain artists like Aretha and Stevie weren't born here. Some other names like Marvin Gaye and John Lee Hooker are people who came here as adults and became famous afterwards. There seemed to be some debate as to whether or not being born here was the criteria for being considered. I was just wondering if there was a distinction to be made. If so, the Tops would certainly qualify. Stevie, Aretha, Seger, Nugent, Diana Ross, Yusef Latif, and Emenem are all Detroiters in my book, Patti Smith is not. | ||
Thursdaynext Member Username: Thursdaynext Post Number: 224 Registered: 04-2006 Posted From: 70.227.206.70 |
Douglasm, any chance you have this CD? http://music.barnesandnoble.co m/search/product.asp?z=y&EAN=7 31253028724&ITM=1 I do, and it's awesome! Favorite song..."TGIF". | ||
Smogboy Member Username: Smogboy Post Number: 3226 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 69.47.100.44 |
What about the boys from Was (Not Was)??? Not only did they form a band and do somewhat well, they've gone to produce some other stellar music and win Grammys galore. | ||
Douglasm Member Username: Douglasm Post Number: 581 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 66.189.188.28 |
Yes, I have the Norton CD. It crawled across the country, honest..... A couple of notes here. Norton is an amazing label. They've got a Gino Washington CD I'd like to get my hands on, and their Northwest Collection is thick with Sonics and Fabulous Wailers. "The Wailers At The (Spanish) Castle"--That's Spanish Castle as in the Hendrix song--is a terrific piece of work. The other more local point is that although much attention has been lavished on the 2nd generation of Detroit Rock ("The Grande Era") not so much has been laid on what could be the first generation, as the Norton collection so greatly shows off. Punch Andrews' early teen clubs like the Hideout gave groups a place to play and hone their craft. Besides, they were 1) fun, and 2) sent Punch off on a career that included Something Different, The Chalet, and The Birmingham Paladium. Ah, teen clubs..... As to my favorite cut, I think I like The Four Of Us doing the old Byrd's b-side "Feel A Whole Lot Better", but there isn't a clinker in the bunch..... | ||
Zulu_warrior Member Username: Zulu_warrior Post Number: 2892 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 205.188.116.137 |
MC Breed One of the first rappers to come out the Midwest in the early '90s, MC Breed experienced modest success while based in Flint, MI, before leaving the Midwest to work with the D.O.C. in L.A. and Too $hort in Atlanta. Breed's debut album, MC Breed & DFC, was released on the tiny independent label SDEG (4103) and pictures Breed and da Flint Crew (DFC) in their b-boy stances, donning gaudy Detroit Tigers apparel. The album merged the East and West Coast sounds of the time, being both lyrical and funky; it also spawned a successful single, "Ain't No Future in Yo' Frontin'," which was later sampled for Ice Cube's "Wicked," and helped keep the album on Billboard's R&B chart for a whopping 52 weeks. Following this initial success, unprecedented at the time for a Midwestern rap act, Breed adopted more of a West Coast gangsta sound like many success-hungry rappers of the time. He began working with D.O.C., who helped write and produce some of the songs on Breed's third album, The New Breed. By this point, the Flint native had left the Midwest and DFC behind and was networking on all coasts. His efforts proved successful when his fourth album, Funkafied, peaked at number nine on the Billboard R&B chart in summer 1994. However, Breed would never match the success of that album, and subsequent releases throughout the '90s -- many of them featuring Too $hort, who Breed became close with when the two re-located to Atlanta -- didn't chart nearly as well, partly because Breed never signed a major-label contract. Nonetheless, he remained prolific as an underground rapper, releasing generally an album a year and aligning himself with the Dirty South movement. ~ Jason Birchmeier, All Music Guide Ready For the World A Michigan funk band with slight rock leanings, Ready for the World parlayed Melvin Riley's whining vocals and some trendy production into a pair of number one R&B hits in the mid-'80s for MCA. Riley, Gordon Strozier, Gregory Potts, Willie Triplett, John Eaton, and Gerald Valentine began on their own Blue Lake label before signing with MCA. The label reissued the song "Tonight," and it reached number six on the R&B charts in 1984. They followed it with "Deep Inside Your Love," another Top Ten R&B single, then had their first of two chart-toppers in "Oh Sheila." It got them a huge crossover smash, ultimately topping the pop lists as well. They scored their fourth consecutive Top Ten R&B record with "Digital Display," then had two flop singles before "Love You Down" put them back on top of the R&B world in 1986. It was their last hit and peaked at number nine pop. ~ Ron Wynn, All Music Guide DeBarge/Switch Elder DeBarge siblings Tommy and Bobby formed a group called Switch in 1975, along with Jody Sims, Greg Williams, Phillip Ingram and Eddie Fuellen. They were discovered by Motown performer Jermaine Jackson, and signed to the Motown label in 1977. Switch recorded several hits for Motown's Gordy label, including "There'll Never Be" and "I Call Your Name". In 1979, Tommy and Bobby helped Eldra, Mark, James, Randy, and Bunny receive a recording contract with Motown as well. Originally known as "The DeBarges", the group issued its self-titled debut album in 1981, which was a commercial disappointment. The next year saw the release of All This Love, which was a success, reaching gold-selling status. "I Like It" and "All This Love" were the major hits from this album, with the former single reaching #1 on the US R&B charts. El DeBarge's verse from the chorus ("I like the way you comb your hair/and I like the stylish clothes you wear") became an oft-repeated line in hip hop and R&B songs during the following two decades. 1983 saw the release of In a Special Way, another gold album for DeBarge, featuring the hits "Be My Lady", "In A Special Way" (another US #1 R&B hit), "Time Will Reveal", "Stay With Me" and "A Dream". The final section of "Stay With Me" later became one of the most famous samples in hip-hop and R&B, with The Notorious B.I.G. ("One More Chance [Remix]"), Mary J. Blige ("Don't Go"), and Ashanti ("Foolish") all making use of the sample for their own hit singles. DeBarge opened for R&B singer-songwriter Luther Vandross on his 1984 tour. The same year, James DeBarge married Jermaine Jackson's 18-year-old sister Janet Jackson; the marriage was annulled shortly afterward. In 1985, DeBarge had its biggest hit with the Diane Warren-penned "Rhythm of the Night", the main single from both the gold Rhythm of the Night album and the Motown/Tri-Star Pictures motion picture The Last Dragon. Other hit singles from Rhythm of the Night included "Who's Holding Donna Now?" and "You Wear it Well", which he performed with the cast of The Facts of Life during a guest appearance on the show as himself. After the release of a 1986 greatest hits LP, El DeBarge left the group for a solo career. The final DeBarge album, 1987's Bad Boys, featured Bobby and Tommy added to the lineup, but Bunny left the group the same year. DeBarge finally disbanded in 1989, though the members would continue to perform together on occasion until Bobby's death from complications resulting from AIDS in 1995. Younger brother Chico DeBarge, although never a member of DeBarge, became an R&B solo star during the latter half of the 1990s. By 2000, all of the DeBarges had moved from R&B to gospel music | ||
River_rat Member Username: River_rat Post Number: 165 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 71.126.169.220 |
This thread has concentrated on popular music singers. There has been substantial debate on the level of talents of each as a singer-musician. A great classical talent was an opera singer who is little known in this community, Ara Berberian. He was born in 1930 and was an accomplished bass who sang in many operas around the world. He had immense musical talent. He died in 2005, but before his death, he bequeathed a parcel of land (I think in Southfield) to be maintained as a nature preserve. He gave the 20 or so acres away as a gift to the community. A real gentleman and a fine musical talent. | ||
Pjazz Member Username: Pjazz Post Number: 43 Registered: 04-2005 Posted From: 69.212.57.249 |
The Queen of Soul, and I'll give honorable mention to George Clinton for his awsome concerts. | ||
Iheartthed Member Username: Iheartthed Post Number: 120 Registered: 04-2006 Posted From: 64.131.176.232 |
George Clinton is from Detroit...? | ||
Pffft Member Username: Pffft Post Number: 1028 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 70.237.11.165 |
The "first generation" of Detroit rock was not in the mid'60s, Douglasm...not even close. In the '50s, we had Jack Scott and Johnny and the Hurricanes, Del Shannon, the Royaltones...go back further; Bill Haley was born in Highland Park, although he left early. By no means were Punch Andrews' teen club years the first generation of Detroit rock. | ||
Ghetto_butterfly Member Username: Ghetto_butterfly Post Number: 612 Registered: 09-2004 Posted From: 68.60.139.186 |
Marvin Gaye, Jack White, Carl Craig - and Eminem if he would finally own up to the D again. | ||
Jimg Member Username: Jimg Post Number: 632 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 152.163.100.8 |
...and if you drop just a little bit below Pffft's list, you get Della Reese, Kitty Stevenson (mother of Motown's Mickey), and the gravelly-voiced Putney Nails - the Flame Show Bar crowd, in other words, from whence came Jackie Wilson and countless others... LaVerne Baker, born n bread in Chi, made her first issued recs with Maurice King from the Flame and toured with Todd Rhodes. Johnny Ray, too, got his 'big break' in Det while at the Flame. | ||
Pffft Member Username: Pffft Post Number: 1029 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 70.237.11.165 |
Oh Jimg...I'm all over that stuff I love it. I wasn't even getting into the R&B. Douglasm was talking about rock... That'd be another good thread, who like Johnny Ray broke here in Detroit first. | ||
Douglasm Member Username: Douglasm Post Number: 583 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 66.189.188.28 |
Pffft, you're more than right. My mistake... I think what I was trying to say so awkardly is that there's a "middle" period in Rock between the "early" stars and the "later" stars that appears to get little or no respect or recognition, and era seems to be cover from about 1961 to about the beginnings of the WABX era. Norton's CD does a lot to correct that, as does the Cameo/Parkway boxed set that Allen Klein finally let crawl from his ABKCO vault..... (Message edited by douglasm on June 25, 2006) | ||
Dirthead Member Username: Dirthead Post Number: 7 Registered: 04-2006 Posted From: 209.131.7.68 |
I can't believe only one Mitch Ryder mention. So many artists have been inspired by him over the years. You can still see him around today, performing his old hits and music that he's written over the past 40 or so years. And he has never left the Detroit area. | ||
623kraw Member Username: 623kraw Post Number: 918 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 68.61.65.233 |
Just a start, but Grand Funk Railroad should be on the list somewhere... Alice Cooper Iggy Pop Romantics Bob Seger Mitch Ryder MC5 | ||
Pdtpuck Member Username: Pdtpuck Post Number: 72 Registered: 01-2006 Posted From: 208.251.168.194 |
Old news, but my vote backing up Dirthead's vote! Did anybody go? How was it? | ||
Eastsidedog Member Username: Eastsidedog Post Number: 581 Registered: 03-2006 Posted From: 69.220.142.7 |
Iheartthed, George Clinton recorded extensively in Eastpointe at the Disc. He still comes in there and records when he's in the area. Not sure if he's from Detroit or not though, I always thought he was! Atomic Dog! Neutron Dog! Eastside Dog! | ||
Harpernottingham Member Username: Harpernottingham Post Number: 71 Registered: 04-2006 Posted From: 66.178.227.202 |
I've changed my mind. It's Karen Newman. A legend in her own mind ... (er, time?) ; ) | ||
Old_southwest Member Username: Old_southwest Post Number: 133 Registered: 07-2005 Posted From: 67.149.69.93 |
I'd have to say The Temptations! | ||
Pffft Member Username: Pffft Post Number: 1030 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 69.221.69.131 |
Dirthead, good call... Mitch Ryder is outstanding, and you can't get more native-born. George Clinton was born in New Jersey and formed the Parliaments there ... |
