As you know, Detroit has served as a launching pad for some of the most iconic artists and entrepreneurs of our time. Today sadly, most of the young aspiring artists chasing the same dream, must leave the city to pursue their music careers. Motown Museum is committed to serving the artist community, retaining talent in the city, and restoring Detroit’s vibrant music scene.
To do this, it is critical we provide access to a creative community, artist development training, industry executive networks and platforms to showcase talent. This is the formula that proved to be so successful for Motown and is the reason Motown Museum, in that same spirit, has established Hitsville NEXT.
At the heart of the Motown Museum campus, Hitsville NEXT offers uniquely curated programs which offer guidance and a platform designed to nurture and elevate tomorrow’s music and history makers. For almost 10 years, Motown Museum has worked with legacy Motown artists, creatives and executives to mentor aspiring artists by offering needed personal and career development.
“They really understood what we did, we did for longevity, not just for the moment. I wanted these young artists to know how much work it takes to perfect your craft. They listened to me not just as a mentor, but also as a friend.” – Lois Reeves of the Vandellas
Motown Museum’s artist development programs enhance natural talent by providing vocal coaching, professional styling, rehearsals with the Museum’s Artistic Director, free studio time in the Hitsville NEXT recording studio and participation in master classes led by entertainment industry leaders.
Once confident and prepared, Artists are given the platform to perform and compete. Through these unique opportunities, dreamers like program participant Samuel have access to outlets for innovation, expression and allowing for talent growth and personal discovery.
“My experience at Motown Museum was humbling yet also boosted my self-esteem. I learned so much about myself, music, collaboration, and the industry. I’m so proud of myself and I’m thankful for all the support I received.” – Samuel Pickens
We are beyond proud of the artists who have come through our programs. In 2023 alone, our Hitsville NEXT artists have performed on Good Morning America, opened for Motown legends, the Commodores, headlined at Detroit’s Tree Lighting Ceremony, performed alongside international stars at the first ever Afro Beats Festival in Detroit, and traveled to California to meet with industry leaders at Universal Music Group/Sony to learn about all aspects of the music business.
Your gift empowers Motown Museum to create real opportunities for aspiring musicians and singers that are powerful and transformative. Additionally, your gift helps retain Detroit’s talent population and helps restore our global reputation as a major music city. We appreciate your generosity and we hope you will continue to support our mission, so together we can create life-changing experiences for the next generation.
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