E-mail a friendJuly 7, 2009
Tavis revisits his conversation with Motown Records founder Berry Gordy and shows highlights from the Michael Jackson memorial service at Staples Center. Ryan, Kyle and Tara Perry—the teens that make up The Homemade Jamz Blues Band—talk about where music has taken them and also perform, including a track from their new CD, "I Got Blues for You."
Berry Gordy
Berry Gordy
Full interview and highlights from the Michael Jackson memorial. (11:15)
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.
The Homemade Jamz Blues Band
The Homemade Jamz Blues Band
The Homemade Jamz Blues Band performs. (3:08)
Full interview and performances. (14:34)
Ryan Perry, age 16, sings and plays guitar. His brother Kyle, age 14, plays bass; and sister Taya, age 10, plays drums. Together, they're the Homemade Jamz Blues Band—one of today's hottest groups, electrifying crowds around the country. The Tupelo, MS-based trio is the youngest blues band to sign with a major record label (Toronto-based NorthernBlues Music) and to ever be nominated for a Blues Music Award (for their debut CD, "Pay Me No Mind," which was recorded over three days). "I Got Blues for You" is their latest CD.