Perseverance Leads to Impact

As you are aware, recent years proved challenging as Motown Museum weathered the pandemic and storm flooding. Through perseverance and your generosity, we were able to reactivate tours and continue community and education programming, both virtually and in-person, while maintaining momentum on Expansion construction. In August of this year, we celebrated the opening of Hitsville NEXT and the unveiling of Rocket Plaza with Motown icons Smokey Robinson, Otis Williams, and many of our lead donors and friends.

Rocket Plaza creates an engaging and inspirational community space bringing events and activities to the neighborhood. Hitsville NEXT, the programming hub on the museum campus, echoes the talent, creativity, and collaborative spirit of Motown. Both are impactful additions to this legendary place where dreams are cultivated and lives are transformed.

Travis James is one of the talented people who came to Motown to pursue his dreams as a singer and found inspiration and success. Like many Motown musicians, Travis discovered his passion for singing at church while growing up in Detroit. This experience motivated him to enter Motown Museum’s 4th annual Amplify, the Sound of Detroit Singing Competition, where he emerged as the 2022 singer of the year.

“I love everything about Motown…it’s a legacy that inspires me…Motown gives me energy, and the confidence, to sing music that will make people feel changed and empowered.”
–Travis James

Travis almost immediately gained national exposure during televised public performances at Detroit’s annual fireworks display in July, and at the annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony Downtown in November. Travis also continued the Motown legacy by mentoring museum Summer Campers with Motown Alumni Mickey Stevenson. Together, they encouraged the next generation to persevere in following their dreams.

“The AMPLIFY singing Competition really opened the door for me…it’s allowed me to believe I have a God-given talent and allowed the world to see it. I am excited to be a part of the program.”
–Travis James

The level of impact our programs create can only be achieved with the ongoing generosity of our supporters. Your gifts do more than just fuel what we do, they influence how we impact lives.

With your help, we will continue to motivate others with the Motown story, expand programs that inspire the next generation of artists and entrepreneurs, and create paths to success for those willing to persevere in their endeavors. Please join us on this mission and make a gift today.