One of the truly unique features of the Motown Production System was its system of “Quality Control”. Barry Gordy borrowed this concept from his experience working in the Detroit Automotive Industry. The producers would submit their final mixes to the ”quality control” department where Billie Jean (Motown’s Quality Control expert) would listen. This was the first step in getting a Motown record released. If a  record met Billie Jean’s demanding standards, Jean would them bring them into “the Friday morning meeting”. The Friday morning product evaluation meeting was Barry’s meeting. This is where the Motown team voted and picked the final records that would be released. 

Once a record’s  sound was approved as a possible hit, the performers would then be groomed to establish their “look”. Members of Motown Quality Control would oversee the hours of work from countless professionals to ensure that each group had the precision dance moves and the right costumes before going on tour.

But before all this could even happen, Barry Gordy along with his investors, would oversee regular group auditions to see who had “the whole package”, and who would ultimately become the next Motown star. Most of these auditions were held at Barry’s home, the Detroit landmark now known as Hitsville USA. Occasionally Barry would invite some of Detroit’s top VIPs to his home for private, black-tie audition soirees to participate and vote on each group’s performance.

This October ‘Barely Gordy’ (Barry‘s insignificant brother) is hosting a VIP audition of his own as a  fundraiser for the Carnival of Care, and you’re invited to be a guest judge as he scouts the latest talent in his quest to discover Detroit’s next Motown Star!

It's an AMAZING night of Motown Moves and Memories, so Dress to Impress! For vintage Motown costumes and attire, please check out Sutton's Costumes (www.suttonscostumes.com) in Waterford. Just tell them you're attending a Double Exposure, Inc. event and receive a special 10% Discount!