Standing in the Shadows of Motown

Amazon.com:
The phenomenal story of Motown has been told many times--so many in fact, that the notion of an untold part of its legacy seems far-fetched. But as the documentary film Standing in the Shadows of Motown demonstrates, there was more to the success of the Detroit-based label than singing babes in gowns and founder Berry Gordy's business acumen. There was also the self-named Funk Brothers: the session players putting the unforgettable guitar sounds into "You Keep Me Hangin' On" and the creeping bass line behind "I Heard It Through the Grapevine." These guys were a crucial piece of the puzzle but have remained largely anonymous. While the Standing documentary tells the Funk Brothers' story via interviews, stock footage, and still photos, the accompanying soundtrack takes liberties, pairing the surviving musicians with contemporary pop, R&B, and funk artists. Together, they faithfully recast Motown hits. What could have been a disaster--would you want to muck with "Ain't No Mountain High Enough"?--works beautifully, thanks both to the Brothers' chops and the thoughtful artist selection. While enlisting a soul brother like Ben Harper was a no-brainer, the inclusion of Joan Osborne was especially astute. After all, Osborne's deep connection to R&B is why her production of the Holmes Brothers' Speaking in Tongues disc was genius, and she acquits herself beautifully on "(Love Is Like A) Heat Wave" and "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted." Similarly, bass boss Meshell Ndegeocello gives Chaka Khan competition in the gospel diva department. Bootsy Collins, Gerald Levert, and Montell Jordan also contribute. Motown purists may balk at this concept, but they'd have to agree these readings are smart, respectful, and very, very soulful. --Kim Hughes

Disc 1:

1. (Love Is Like A) Heat Wave - Joan Osborne
2. You've Really Got A Hold On Me - Meshell Ndegeocello
3. Do You Love Me - Bootsy Collins
4. Bernadette (instrumental) - The Funk Brothers
5. Reach Out I'll Be There - Gerald Levert
6. Ain't Too Proud To Beg - Ben Harper
7. Shotgun - Gerald Levert featuring Tom Scott
8. What Becomes Of The Brokenhearted - Joan Osborne
9. I Heard It Through The Grapevine - Ben Harper
10. You Keep Me Hanging On (instrumental) - The Funk Brothers
11. Cool Jerk - Bootsy Collins
12. Cloud Nine - Meshell Ndegeocello
13. What's Going On - Chaka Kahn
14. Band Introduction / Ain't No Mountain High Enough - Chaka Kahn & Montell Jordan
15. The Flick - Earl Van Dyke

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Customer Reviews

Rating: - Standing in the Shadows of Motown
I could not wait to purchase this soundtrack after seeing the movie! It is one of the best CDs I've bought. What a trip down memory lane for me. What talent!!
Rating: - Exceptional Merchandise.
This item was excellent. Just what they described it as. Exceptional, business manner and perfect communication.AAA+++ Seller, I would definitly buy from them again and again.
Rating: - Two hours of heaven
The documentary is being played on cable this week, and for anyone who's never seen this, you are infor a treat.The musicianship is sublime--the surviving Funk Brothers backing Joan Osbourne, 'cello --both of these ladies awesome angels--Bootsy Collins, Ben Harper, Chaka Khan...I was so absorbed that I think I actually went into the tv set and became part of the film.As incredible as the performances are the stories of the musicians, their devotion to their craft and their instruments, to playing ... Read More
Rating: - great music
This is a great cd, I enjoyed it very much. If your any kind of motown fan it's a must have.
Rating: - Standing in the Shadows
Music very well done as are most vocals. Enjoyed it very much. Anyone who grew up on Motown will enjoy it.