[For Beginners] A Collection of Iconic and Classic Motown Songs That Resonate with the Heart

You Can’t Hurry LoveThe Supremes

The Supremes “You Can’t Hurry Love” on The Ed Sullivan Show

The Supremes are the female group that represents the prestigious Motown label—an essential name in the history of Black music.

With their sophisticated style, they won support from a wide audience and became one of the most commercially successful groups in Motown’s history.

A song that symbolizes their career is included on the renowned album “The Supremes A’ Go-Go.” This work carries a heartwarming message in which a mother gently advises her lovestruck daughter, “You can’t hurry love.” Despite its light, poppy sound, the song’s structure—which extols the virtue of patiently waiting—feels quintessentially Motown.

Released as a single in July 1966, it spent two consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the U.

S.

charts.

Years later, it was also covered for the film “Runaway Bride.” It’s the kind of song that feels full of gentle encouragement—perfect for those moments when you want to pause and reflect on love.

SuperstitionStevie Wonder

Superstition

Stevie Wonder has created numerous timeless masterpieces that transcend the boundaries of soul music.

A multi-instrumentalist who can handle most instruments, he truly deserves to be called a genius.

Among his works, the song I’d like to recommend is this classic.

Known in Japan under the title “Superstition,” it warns of the dangers of living bound by baseless folklore and superstitions.

Released as a single in October 1972, it reached No.

1 in the U.

S.

in early 1973.

Featured on the legendary album “Talking Book,” its surging clavinet groove is endlessly cool no matter how many times you listen.

Be sure to check it out.

Papa Was a Rollin’ StoneThe Temptations

Papa Was A Rollin’ Stone

The Temptations are the chorus group that best represents Motown, the illustrious label that shines in music history.

It’s truly remarkable how, despite repeated lineup changes, they’ve continued to release hits in every era.

The track featured here was released in September 1972 and reached No.

1 on the U.

S.

charts.

It was originally a song by another group, but the renowned producer Norman Whitfield reconstructed it with a psychedelic sound.

The lyrics—asking a mother about a deceased father—are heartrending and urgent, perfectly matching the unsettling atmosphere of the piece, which opens with a long instrumental passage.

It even went on to win three Grammy Awards.

Included on the album All Directions, this deep, cool classic is perfect for nights when you want to fully immerse yourself in music.

Someday We’ll Be TogetherDiana Ross & The Supremes

Diana Ross & The Supremes “Someday We’ll Be Together” on The Ed Sullivan Show

Diana Ross & The Supremes lit up the music scene of the ’60s with glamour and grace.

This ballad, which arrived at a pivotal moment in their history, was the last single Diana Ross sang as part of the group.

The song expresses a bittersweet yet unwavering belief that even if you part from the one you love, “someday we’ll be together” again.

That theme seems to mirror her own situation as she set off on a solo journey, making the song all the more moving to hear.

Released in October 1969, it’s also known for being the final No.

1 hit on the U.

S.

charts in the 1960s.

It appears on the album Cream of the Crop, and the group performed it on their final TV appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show.

There’s even a behind-the-scenes anecdote that the producer’s voice was accidentally recorded and left in the final version, adding a touch of warmth to the track.

It’s a song that gently stays by your side—perfect for moments before a farewell to someone dear, or on lonely nights when you’re longing to meet again.

Dancing In The StreetMartha Reeves & The Vandellas

Dancing In The Street – Martha and the Vandellas – 1964 – Music Video

Martha Reeves & the Vandellas are a soulful female vocal group that epitomized Motown.

Known for their gospel-rooted, powerful vocals, they had a distinct presence that set them apart from the contemporaneous Supremes.

The focus here is their timeless masterpiece released in July 1964.

Calling out to the world to “get out on the street and dance,” the song is a party anthem that makes everyone’s heart leap, yet with the rise of the civil rights movement it also came to be interpreted as an anthem urging social change.

It reached No.

2 on the U.

S.

charts and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999.

If you put it on to lift your spirits or as a companion on a drive, you’ll find yourself moving to the beat—this is the very essence of Motown’s powerful sound.

Two LoversMary Wells

Two Lovers

A gentle lover and a lover who’s cold and makes you sad.

The opening, as if a heart were swaying between two people, might make you catch your breath.

Sung by Mary Wells, known as the “Motown Queen,” this song delivers a surprising twist: the two lovers are actually the same person.

The feeling of being drawn to a beloved’s complex allure is sung over a light, catchy rhythm.

Released as a single in October 1962, it topped the R&B chart and sold over a million copies.

It’s the perfect track for those moments when your heart races at a lover’s elusive side.

Didn’t Cha KnowErykah Badu

Erykah Badu – Didn’t Cha Know

Often called the queen of neo-soul and revered by countless artists for her originality, Erykah Badu captivates listeners once again.

This track from her classic album Mama’s Gun on Motown masterfully portrays the sense of wandering we feel when we lose our way in life.

Her vocals sound like a gentle question posed to herself, seeping deeply into the listener’s heart.

The floating, weightless production by the legendary J Dilla is simply irresistible.

Released in November 2000, its Grammy nomination comes as no surprise given the quality.

It’s a gem of a song—perfect for a quiet night when you want to face yourself.