Happy Birthday Motown!

So Motown has turned 50. The 'Sound Of Young America' is growing old gracefully, with barely a grey hair in sight. Way back when, Motown was an unstoppable hit machine, a black-owned business success during the civil rights era that stood for something more than just music.

Founded by Berry Gordy with a hastily scraped together $800 loan, it soon grew to become the ultimate hit factory, whose songs and techniques are still ingrained in the blueprint of the pop industry.

Of course Motown also had its left field moments, daring to turn psychedelic and take on board white influences when American music (and society) was keep strictly divided.

The debate over the greatest Motown song will go on for ever. But here's my say: the greatest Motown song is 'Leaving Here' by Eddie Holland.

One part of the Holland-Dozier-Holland hit machine that ruled the American charts with an iron fist, Eddie Holland should have a star but was cursed with acute stage fright. Taking to writing for other artists he only recorded rarely and this was one of his biggest hits. Packed full of that punchy mid 60s energy, it rolls over superb drums and horns with a melody to die for and lyrics that keep a smile on your face. Everything that was great about the peak era of Motown, yet surprisingly underplayed.

Oh, and did we mention that cover versions have been recorded by The Who and.... Motorhead?