- Words Blessing Borode
Finally making its way into the UK to seek out homegrown talent is the renowned Motown Records, with the launch of a new label.
The sounds of Motown is no stranger to the ears of those in the UK, with a long history of success dating back more than half a century. Considering the rich history and the iconic artists and hit songs that Motown Records has churned out, it is only fitting that we see an expansion of the label into the UK.
With Rob Pascoe as managing director and Afryea Henry-Fontaine as marketing director, the UK team is set to be completed over the coming weeks and prepares to launch a refreshing repertoire of Black British music as well as releases from Motown’s revitalised US operation. Both Pascoe and Henry-Fontaine have been integral to the success of the Motown repertoire in the UK.
Motown is known to not only enhance the success of established artists but focuses its efforts on artist development, including London-based neo-soul singer Tiana Major9. Her recent EP ‘At Sixes And Sevens’ caught the attention of NME and cited her as an artist who has the “potential to join the greats”. To say the least, we are excited to see the talent that will spill from Motown records UK with this expansion.
Motown president Ethiopia Habtemariam says: “The past five years have been a period of tremendous global growth for Motown, through artist development that’s central to our company’s 60-year history and via entrepreneurial partnerships that have greatly expanded our reach.”
“The timing could not be more perfect for the launch of Motown Records UK, and I’m looking forward to working closely with Rebecca, Rob and Afryea as we sign and develop exciting new British talent, expand our platform for Black entrepreneurship in the UK and guide Motown towards even greater global success.”