Barrett Strong
Barrett Strong was an influential American singer and songwriter, born on February 5, 1941, in West Point, Mississippi. He is notably recognized as one of the early artists of Motown Records and is credited as the voice behind some of the label's most significant hits, including "Money (That's What I Want)," which marked Motown's first major success in 1959.
Strong's contributions to music extended beyond performing; he was also a talented songwriter. He co-wrote several classic songs that have left an indelible mark on the music industry, including "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" and "Papa Was a Rolling Stone". His songwriting prowess was pivotal in establishing Motown as a powerhouse in the music business, and he played a key role in the label's early sound and success.
Throughout his career, Barrett Strong's work not only showcased his vocal talents but also underscored his significant influence on the evolution of popular music, particularly within the soul and R&B genres. He passed away on January 28, 2023, in San Diego, California, leaving behind a rich legacy in the music world.
Stronghold
A2 Surrender (B. Strong, B. Always 3:36)
A3 I Can't Let You Get Away (B. Strong, B. Always 3:58)
A4 Is It True (Barrett Strong 4:11)
B1 I Wanna Do The Thang (B. Strong, B. Always 4:43)
B2 There's Something About You (B. Strong, B. Always 3:45)
B3 Anywhere (Billy Always 3:23)
B4 Mary, Mary You (B. Strong, B. Always 2:45)
B5 I'm Gonna Take Care Of Business (B. Strong, B. Always 3:02)
Label: Capitol Records – ST-11376
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1975
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul
Barrett Strong's 1975 album Stronghold was his debut solo LP after leaving Motown and is recognized for showcasing a shift to a blend of rhythmic funk and rock.
The album marked a departure from the "orchestral soul" sound Strong helped pioneer as a songwriter at Motown. It incorporates a harder, funkier rock sound, reflecting the musical direction he and producer Norman Whitfield had explored with The Temptations.
The most notable single from the album was "Is It True," which helped the LP achieve some success on the charts.
The album is an important part of Strong's transition from a behind-the-scenes hit songwriter and his original Motown vocalist role to a solo artist with his own distinct voice and musical vision. He released the album under Capitol Records, having signed with Epic and later Capitol after his departure from Motown in the early 1970s.
It's considered a rare and valuable record, with sellers often noting its excellent condition for a 1978 vinyl, making it a prize for vinyl enthusiasts and soul music collectors.