Sure, the Supremes had more hits. But Martha had more soul. Listen to Martha Reeves' earthy performance here, and that of backup singers Rosalind Ashford and Annette Sterling.
The trio started at Motown singing behind others. That's them on Marvin Gaye's "Stubborn Kind of Fellow" and "Hitch Hike."
"Heatwave," penned by the unbeatable team of Holland-Dozier-Holland was released in summer 1963 and hit #4 on the U.S. pop charts.
The single is the sound of Motown hitting it's stride. Launching with tight snare followed with handclaps, horns and Martha's sun-coming-out-from-behind-the-clouds vocals. It's a great tune, amazingly catchy and well-constructed. But it's the performance here that makes the record. Same with Martha's "Dancing in the Streets." Ever here decent cover versions of either? Ever heard the Who's horrid covers of both?
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Availability:
Martha and the Vandellas Ultimate Collection
Complete Motown Singles Vol. 4
Previous Best Song Ever
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