Can out-dance Bowie and Jagger!' Martha Reeves on Motown, Dancing in the Street and smashing crockery with Dusty Springfield

Martha Reeves expanded on the forces behind Motown’s defining “production line” era, linking the label’s creative output to Detroit’s manufacturing culture. She recalled being discovered after an amateur contest and quickly taking a secretary role at Hitsville, USA, describing the period as a “glorious ride.” Reeves said the idea of Motown as Motortown reflects Berry Gordy’s Ford background and a system of assigning roles. She credited Stevie Wonder’s early genius, recalling him conducting an adult choir at age nine, and described how Marvin Gaye helped shape “Dancing in the Street” by urging her to sing and showcasing multi-instrument talent. She also said the song became an anthem during the civil rights movement, shifting energy toward dancing rather than unrest.