I Hear a Symphony
Subtitle: Motown and Crossover R&B
Publisher: University of Michigan Press
Published: May 30, 2017
Language: eng
Format: hardcover
Number of pages: 344
ISBN-13: 9780472117413
Description: I Hear a Symphony" opens new territory in the study of Motown's legacy, arguing that the music of Motown was indelibly shaped by the ideals of Detroit's postwar black middle class; that Motown's creative personnel participated in an African-American tradition of dialogism in rhythm and blues while developing the famous "Motown Sound." Throughout the book, Flory focuses on the central importance of "crossover" to the Motown story; first as a key concept in the company's efforts to reach across American commercial markets, then as a means to extend influence internationally, and finally as a way to expand the brand beyond strictly musical products. Flory's work reveals the richness of the Motown sound, and equally rich and complex cultural influence Motown still exerts.
Notes: Source title: I Hear a Symphony: Motown and Crossover R&B (Tracking Pop)