Motown legend Janie Bradford Hobbs dies at 87

Legendary Motown songwriter Janie Bradford Hobbs, who helped pen some of the label’s most memorable hits, died following an extended illness, according to her family. She was 87.

Moving to Detroit in the late 50s, Bradford Hobbs became a next-door neighbor to future pop and R&B star Jackie Wilson, who introduced her to the founder of Motown, Berry Gordy. 

Collectively, Gordy and Bradford Hobbs co-wrote "Money (That’s What I Want)," which became a major hit and later covered by The Beatles. Another song she penned, "Too Busy Thinking About My Baby", also became a hit for Marvin Gaye, was also recorded by the Temptations. She also wrote songs for Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Martha & The Vandellas and more. 

What they're saying:

Berry Gordy released a statement, saying, "Janie was one of a special group I have always thought of as the original Motown family — the unsung heroes who believed in the dream before anyone knew what Motown would become," Gordy said. "She was one of the people who helped make Motown what it became."

The backstory:

Born in Charleston, Missouri, Bradford Hobbs started out her career as a receptionist for the label, but similar to many early employees of the company’s beginning, she took part in the creative process to help make the label a music industry powerhouse. 

"Janie was there with me from the very beginning, before there was even a Motown, and she will always hold a very special place in my heart and in the Motown family," Gordy said in a statement.

Dig deeper:

She went on to become head of Motown’s publishing company and later, after leaving Motown, she founded an annual tribute event in Los Angeles, the Heroes and Legends Awards, to honor entertainers, athletes and executives who use their status to support the community. 

Bradford Hobbs leaves behind her husband, Wardean Hobbs, daughter, Nicole Hobbs, son, Lance Finney and two grandchildren. 

 

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