Motown Quiz- Merit Scholar
This is mandatory for anyone going to New York City in December. You must score at least 80%. Use the reading material to answer all questions. Email Kimberlysue. Smith@omeresa. Net with any questions.
- 1.
Who established/founded Motown Records?
- A.
Berry Gordy Jr.
- B.
Marvin Gaye
- C.
Smokey Robinson
- D.
Michael Jackson
Correct Answer
A. Berry Gordy Jr.Explanation
Berry Gordy Jr. is the correct answer because he is the founder of Motown Records. Motown Records was established by Gordy in 1959 in Detroit, Michigan. He started the record label with the aim of creating music that would appeal to a wide audience, regardless of race. Motown Records went on to become one of the most successful and influential record labels in history, launching the careers of numerous legendary artists such as Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, and The Jackson 5.Rate this question:
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- 2.
When was Motown Records founded?
- A.
1972
- B.
1952
- C.
1960
- D.
1959
Correct Answer
D. 1959Explanation
Motown Records was founded in 1959. This record company played a significant role in shaping the sound of American popular music in the 1960s and 1970s. It was founded by Berry Gordy Jr. in Detroit, Michigan, and became known for its production of soul, R&B, and pop music. Motown Records launched the careers of many iconic artists such as Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, and The Jackson 5. The year 1959 marks the beginning of this influential record label's journey.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Where was Motown Records founded/started?
- A.
Ohio
- B.
New York
- C.
Michigan
- D.
California
Correct Answer
C. MichiganExplanation
Motown Records was founded and started in Michigan. Motown Records, also known as Hitsville U.S.A., was established in Detroit, Michigan in 1959 by Berry Gordy Jr. The label played a significant role in shaping the sound of popular music during the 1960s and 1970s, with artists like Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, and The Jackson 5. Michigan became the birthplace of the Motown sound, making it the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Why was Motown special?
- A.
It was the most successful African-American owned company.
- B.
It produced formidable music and became a cultural icon.
- C.
All of the above.
- D.
None of the above.
Correct Answer
C. All of the above.Explanation
Motown was special because it was the most successful African-American owned company and it produced formidable music that became a cultural icon. This means that all of the given options are correct, as they accurately describe the reasons why Motown was special.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Motown was a blend of which musical styles?
- A.
African-American Church Tradition, Pop & Jazz
- B.
African-American Church Tradition, Pop, Jazz & Rap
- C.
African-American Church Tradition & Jazz only
- D.
African-American Church Tradition & Rap music
Correct Answer
A. African-American Church Tradition, Pop & JazzExplanation
Motown was a genre of music that originated in the 1960s and was characterized by a blend of African-American Church Tradition, Pop, and Jazz. The African-American Church Tradition influenced the soulful and gospel-like vocals, while Pop elements added catchy melodies and hooks, and Jazz contributed to the sophisticated harmonies and instrumental arrangements. This combination of musical styles is what made Motown unique and popular during its time.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Before starting Motown Records, the founded had attempted which other job?
- A.
Bank clerk
- B.
Boxer
- C.
Lawyer
- D.
Pizza delivery guy
Correct Answer
B. BoxerExplanation
The correct answer is boxer because before starting Motown Records, the founder had tried his hand at being a boxer. This suggests that the founder had pursued a career in boxing before venturing into the music industry with Motown Records.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Who had Motown's first Pop Number 1 hit?
- A.
Martha and the Vandellas
- B.
Marvin Gaye
- C.
The Temptations
- D.
The Marvelettes
Correct Answer
D. The MarvelettesExplanation
The Marvelettes had Motown's first Pop Number 1 hit.Rate this question:
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- 8.
In 1961, Motown signed a blind 11-year old singer and multi-instrumentalist. What was his/her name?
- A.
Helen Keller
- B.
Ray Charles
- C.
Stevie Wonder
- D.
Smokey Robinson
Correct Answer
C. Stevie WonderExplanation
Stevie Wonder was signed by Motown in 1961 when he was just 11 years old. He is a blind singer and multi-instrumentalist, known for his incredible talent and contributions to the music industry.Rate this question:
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- 9.
What album was Motown's first Number 1 record?
- A.
The 11 Year Wonder
- B.
The 12 Year old Genius
- C.
Little Kid on the Block
- D.
Smokin' Joe
Correct Answer
B. The 12 Year old GeniusExplanation
The correct answer is "The 12 Year old Genius." This album refers to the album "Little Stevie Wonder/The 12 Year old Genius," which was released in 1963 and became Motown's first Number 1 record. The album showcased the immense talent of Stevie Wonder at a young age and propelled him to stardom.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Beginning in 1964, which group had 10 Number 1 Pop hits and 5 more in the top ten, becoming Motown's flagship act?
- A.
The Miracles
- B.
The Marvellettes
- C.
Martha and the Vandellas
- D.
The Supremes
Correct Answer
D. The SupremesExplanation
The Supremes had 10 Number 1 Pop hits and 5 more in the top ten, making them Motown's flagship act.Rate this question:
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- 11.
What techniques did Motown Records use to gauge public opinion/taste?
- A.
Asking random teens questions on the street
- B.
Mailed questionnaires
- C.
Phone surveys
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
A. Asking random teens questions on the streetExplanation
Motown Records used the technique of asking random teens questions on the street to gauge public opinion/taste. This method allowed them to directly interact with their target audience and gather real-time feedback on their music and artists. By engaging with the younger demographic, Motown Records could stay in touch with the evolving trends and preferences of their audience, helping them make informed decisions about their music releases and marketing strategies.Rate this question:
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- 12.
The founder of Motown Records purchased a white frame house where Motown would be headquartered. What did the sign say that he hung over the front door?
- A.
Welcome to Motown
- B.
Hitsville USA
- C.
I have a dream
- D.
Michigan's Finest
Correct Answer
B. Hitsville USAExplanation
The correct answer is Hitsville USA. This sign was hung over the front door of the white frame house that the founder of Motown Records purchased to serve as the headquarters of the company. The phrase "Hitsville USA" became synonymous with Motown and represented the successful and influential music that was produced by the record label.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Most of the young Motown artists came from which socioeconomic level?
- A.
Children of wealthy business owners
- B.
Working class and poor neighborhoods
- C.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. Working class and poor neighborhoodsExplanation
The correct answer is working class and poor neighborhoods. This is because Motown, a record label that was popular in the 1960s, primarily signed and promoted young artists from these socioeconomic backgrounds. Motown aimed to provide opportunities for talented individuals from disadvantaged communities, and many of their artists, such as Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder, emerged from working class and poor neighborhoods.Rate this question:
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- 14.
In 1969, Motown Records earned its first Grammy Award for which group/singer?
- A.
The Temptations
- B.
Jackson 5
- C.
Diana Ross
- D.
Smokey Robinson
Correct Answer
A. The TemptationsExplanation
In 1969, Motown Records earned its first Grammy Award for The Temptations. The Temptations were a highly successful vocal group signed to Motown, known for their soulful harmonies and energetic performances. They had several hit songs during the 1960s, including "My Girl" and "Ain't Too Proud to Beg." Their talent and popularity contributed to Motown's success and recognition at the Grammy Awards.Rate this question:
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- 15.
In 1971, whose record was hailed as the greatest soul music album ever recorded?
- A.
Gladys Knight
- B.
Edwin Starr
- C.
The Temptations
- D.
Marvin Gaye
Correct Answer
D. Marvin GayeExplanation
Marvin Gaye's record in 1971 was hailed as the greatest soul music album ever recorded. This suggests that his album had a significant impact on the genre and was highly acclaimed by both critics and audiences.Rate this question:
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- 16.
In 1972, Motown relocated its headquarters to which US city?
- A.
New York City
- B.
Miami
- C.
Los Angeles
- D.
San Francisco
Correct Answer
C. Los AngelesExplanation
Motown relocated its headquarters to Los Angeles in 1972. This move was motivated by the desire to tap into the growing market of the West Coast and to be closer to the emerging genres of funk and disco. Los Angeles offered a vibrant music scene and opportunities for collaboration with other artists and producers. The relocation to Los Angeles allowed Motown to expand its influence and reach a wider audience, solidifying its place in the history of American popular music.Rate this question:
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- 17.
By moving Motown Records headquarters to a major city in 1972, it allowed for expansion into the film industry. Which artist earned an Oscar nomination for her portrayal of Billie Holiday in Lady Sings the Blues?
- A.
Gladys Knight
- B.
Lil' Kim
- C.
Nicki Minaj
- D.
Diana Ross
Correct Answer
D. Diana RossExplanation
Moving Motown Records headquarters to a major city in 1972 allowed for expansion into the film industry. Diana Ross, an artist associated with Motown Records, earned an Oscar nomination for her portrayal of Billie Holiday in the film Lady Sings the Blues.Rate this question:
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- 18.
In the 1970s (Motown's second decade), which Motown Record artist dominated the musical scene?
- A.
Stevie Wonder
- B.
Smokey Robinson
- C.
Marvin Gaye
- D.
Sir Elton John
Correct Answer
A. Stevie WonderExplanation
In the 1970s, Stevie Wonder dominated the musical scene as a Motown Record artist. Wonder achieved great success during this decade with his unique blend of soul, pop, and funk music. He released several critically acclaimed albums, such as "Talking Book," "Innervisions," and "Songs in the Key of Life," which showcased his exceptional songwriting and musical talent. Wonder's innovative sound and socially conscious lyrics resonated with audiences, earning him numerous accolades and establishing him as one of the most influential artists of the era.Rate this question:
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- 19.
The founder of Motown Records sold the company to which entity in 1988?
- A.
MCA
- B.
RCA
- C.
Columbia Records
- D.
Atlantic Records
Correct Answer
A. MCAExplanation
In 1988, the founder of Motown Records sold the company to MCA.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Which of the following musicians signed with Motown AFTER the original founder left?
- A.
Rick James
- B.
Boys II Men
- C.
DeBarge
- D.
Lionel Richie
Correct Answer
B. Boys II MenExplanation
Boys II Men signed with Motown after the original founder left because Motown was going through a transition period and seeking new talent. The original founder, Berry Gordy, stepped down as the head of the company in 1991, and Boys II Men signed with Motown in 1992. This timing aligns with the fact that they joined the label after the departure of the original founder.Rate this question:
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Mar 16, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Aug 01, 2013Quiz Created by
MeritScholar