The song "Reet Petite" boosted Motown
Go Deeper.
Create an account or log in to save stories.
Like this?
Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.
Today's Morning Edition music is from "Reet Petite" by Jackie Wilson, a song which was co-authored by Berry Gordy and released in 1957.
Today is Mr. Gordy's 88th birthday. The title of the song was taken from the 1947 film "Reet, Petite, and Gone," a musical starring bandleader Louis Jordan and an all-black cast.
Gordy used the royalties from this song and others he wrote for Jackie Wilson to get started as a producer. He would found Motown Records just two years later.
Support Local News
When breaking news happens, MPR News provides the context you need. Help us meet the significant demands of these newsgathering efforts.