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MusiCares, which is dedicated to supporting the
music community, said the music world will celebrate the legacy
of both songwriters during its 32nd annual persons of the year
benefit gala.
Berry Gordy, 92, and Smokey Robinson, 82, built the Motown
record label in the 1960s and for several decades was the
highest earning Black American record label, nicknamed Hitsville
USA for its dozens of chart toppers.
Gordy, the label's founder, was the creator of the fabled Motown
sound, while Robinson was its first writer and one of its
biggest stars. Their bond has inspired generations of popular
music, Broadway shows and emerging artists.
"Wow! How honored I am to be named the MusiCares Persons of the
Year, and together with my best friend of over 65 years, the
great Smokey Robinson. How special is that!" Gordy said in a
statement.
Both Gordy and Robinson have received countless accolades,
including induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Among
many other honors, Gordy is a Vision Award winner and Robinson
is a Grammy winner.
"I have supported MusiCares for many years and know what great
work they do for our creative community who need our help,"
Robinson said in a statement.
"Recently, when no one could tour, they were a lifeline to those
in the touring industry for monetary help and mental health
services. I am honored that they have chosen me and my best
friend and Motown founder Berry Gordy to share this beautiful
honor and celebrate with you all together," he added.
Organizers did not say which artists would perform at the event,
which serves as a fundraiser for MusiCares programs that provide
emergency care to music community members.
"MusiCares is thrilled to be honoring Berry Gordy and Smokey
Robinson at the 2023 persons of the year gala, which will be the
first time we are honoring two legends together,” Laura Segura,
Executive Director of MusiCares, said in a statement.
Gordy and Robinson follow this year's honoree Joni Mitchell.
Past recipients include Dolly Parton and Bruce Springsteen.
(Reporting by Danielle Broadway; Editing by Bill Berkrot)
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