Motown has been retooling the vision of the label by building a new artist roster and hiring Senior Vice President of A&R Ne-Yo. The newest venture for legendary record company is creation of Motown Gospel, the result of a joint venture partnership with EMI Gospel.
"The new Motown Gospel label will offer broader Urban AC crossover potential and further opportunities and synergy between Motown Gospel artists and the Motown and Island Def Jam urban roster," said Barry Weiss, Chairman & CEO of Universal Music Group East Coast Label Group.
The newly formed label's roster includes multiple Stellar Award winning artists VaShawn Mitchell, Pastor Charles Jenkins and Fellowship Chicago and Grammy nominee Anita Wilson. Gospel superstar Cece Winans has announced plans to join Motown Gospel; her new album is tentatively scheduled for 2014.
This year, the company plans to release Tye Tribbett’s ‘Greater Than,’ and new albums by Keirra Shead and Smokie Norful.
The Motown label, known for its influence on the development of popular music in the 20th century, is now branching out to a new genre: gospel. On August 5th 2020, Cece Winans announced that she was appointed as head of Motown Gospel Music Division and that plans are underway to begin creating new gospel music for audiences across the globe. This move will undoubtedly be welcomed by many who have longed for traditional gospel sounds within a modern context.
Motown’s recognition of gospel music is significant because it signals an acknowledgement of their impactful role in bringing together different styles of Black American culture and presenting them to mainstream audiences. While there are numerous other labels devoted exclusively to gospel music, this partnership with Cece Winans has been recognized as having great potential due to her extensive experience in both contemporary and traditional forms of the genre.
The announcement comes at a time when many people around the world are looking towards spiritual guidance and comfort during these difficult times. With this venture into gospel music production, it looks like Motown is about to provide some much-needed solace through familiar melodies and uplifting messages.
Overview Of Motown’s Expansion Into Gospel Music
Motown Records was originally founded in 1959 by Berry Gordy, Jr. as an independent record label for R&B and soul music. Over the years, Motown grew to become one of the most iconic labels in American music history. In 2000, the company further expanded its reach into gospel music when it announced the formation of a new division dedicated exclusively to gospel artists: Motown Gospel. The launch of this new division came with the signing of CeCe Winans, an internationally renowned artist who would help shape the future of Motown’s presence in gospel music over the next two decades.
The first few years of Motown Gospel’s existence saw great success with both fans and critics alike praising their releases. They showcased some outstanding talent like Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, Marvin Sapp and Deitrick Haddon, all successful solo acts that have gone on to produce multiple gold and platinum albums each year since then. Furthermore, they released several compilations such as “Gospel Christmas” which featured songs from some of today’s leading gospel stars including Donnie McClurkin and Yolanda Adams.
In more recent times, Motown Gospel has continued to make waves within the industry while staying true to its mission of providing quality Christian music for people around the world. Their roster now includes Grammy Award-winning artists such as Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Jonathan McReynolds as well as rising stars like JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise, Travis Greene, Jekalyn Carr and many others. With these talented musicians under their wing along with consistent support from existing fans, there is no doubt that Motown Gospel will continue expanding their influence in gospel music for many years to come.
Cece Winans’ Role In The New Division
CeCe Winans was the first artist signed to Motown Gospel when it launched in 2000, and she has had a major role in its development ever since. As one of gospel music’s most successful artists, Cece brought an incredible level of talent and commitment to the new division that immediately set them apart from other labels at the time. Her classic albums “Alone In His Presence” (2001) and “Purified” (2003), plus her collaboration with BeBe Winans on their 2005 album “Still,” helped establish Motown Gospel as a force in the industry.
Winans continued her success throughout the years with two more solo records – 2007’s Throne Room and 2010’s Something Big. She also became involved with many philanthropic efforts, such as supporting World Vision International, which works to end poverty around the world. With her strong influence across multiple platforms—from music to charity work—she is truly an inspiration for those seeking guidance within gospel music today.
Continuing her legacy into 2021, Cece released a brand-new single called “Never Lost” earlier this year. This song serves as a reminder that no matter what life throws our way, we can always turn back towards God for strength and hope. It is yet another example of how Cece has used her platform to spread positivity and faith through music over the past two decades, making her both an integral part of Motown Gospel’s history and future alike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Motown’s decision to form a gospel music division with Cece Winans as its head is an exciting move. With her long history of success and influence in the genre, she is perfectly suited to lead this new venture. Her experience, passion for gospel music and drive will make sure that it flourishes under her direction.
Motown’s foray into gospel music promises to introduce a whole new audience to the sounds of soulful melodies and uplifting beats. With Cece at the helm, we can expect more top-shelf gospel releases from the label in the coming years. It’ll be interesting to see how this collaboration grows and develops over time – I’m certain it won’t disappoint!
As an artist who has made waves throughout both secular and Christian circles, Cece Winans’ involvement in this project should come as no surprise. We are fortunate to have someone like her spearheading such a momentous endeavor – one that could shape the future soundscape of gospel music as we know it today.
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