Gordy, Berry, Jr (1929– )

US record producer and founder of Motown Records. He began writing songs as a teenager and earned a living as a professional boxer and auto worker. In the 1950s he went to New York and sold a number of songs that became rhythm-and-blues hits for Jackie Wilson. He founded Motown Records in 1959, which became known for its distinctive ‘Motown sound’, featuring such artists as Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, and the Jackson Five. Gordy's success helped to make African-American music part of the popular music industry. In 1970 he began producing films such as Lady Sings the Blues (1972). He sold Motown Records in 1988.

He was born in Detroit, Michigan.