E-mail a friendJune 29, 2009
Motown Records founder Berry Gordy reflects on his relationship with Michael Jackson, before the child, who "was like a son" to him, became an international music superstar and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee.
Berry Gordy
Berry Gordy
Former Motown chairman talks about Michael being a genuinely happy kid who loved singing and was very focused on his work. (4:08)
Full interview. (24:55)
Motown founder Berry Gordy helped groom Michael Jackson for stardom. After being convinced to see the young group from Gary, IN, The Jackson 5, Gordy knew they were right for his label. They signed at the end of '68 and, in fall '69, exploded with "I Want You Back," the first of four consecutive No. 1 pop hits. Jackson's first solo single, "Got to Be There," was released in '71, and put him on the path to superstardom. MJ ultimately left the label, but his Emmy-nominated performance of "Billie Jean" on Motown's 25th anniversary special—where he premiered his trademark moonwalk—was one that would send his career into the stratosphere.
