Martha Rose Reeves American singer in R styles Date of Birth: 18.06.1941 Country: USA

1. Martha Rose Reeves Biography
2. Early Life and Music Career
3. Martha and the Vandellas
4. Solo Career and Political Involvement

Martha Rose Reeves Biography

Martha Rose Reeves, born on June 18, 1941, is an American singer in the R&B and soul genres. She is also a former political figure and the lead vocalist of the female group 'Martha and the Vandellas' under the 'Motown' label. During her time with the group, she released dozens of hit singles, including 'Dancing in the Street,' 'Nowhere to Run,' and 'Jimmy Mack.'

Early Life and Music Career

Martha was the third child and the first girl among eleven children born to Elaiya Joshua and Ruby Lee Gilmore Reeves in Eufaula, Alabama. Shortly after Martha's birth, the family moved to Detroit, where she first experienced church as her grandfather, Elaiya Reeves, was a deacon. As a teenager, she attended a local school and took vocal lessons from Abraham Silver, who also taught stars like Florence Ballard, Mary Wilson, and Bobby Rogers.

In 1957, Martha met Rosalind Ashford, Gloria Williams, and Annette Bird, and they formed the group 'The Del-Phis' after Edward Larkins decided to create a sister project for his male group. The girls performed at local parties organized mainly by the YMCA and schools, and Martha received much applause when she performed at her own graduation. However, the group disbanded in 1960, and Martha quickly found a place in 'Sabre-Ettes' and later 'The Fascinations.' However, she left before their first recording was released. In the same year, Martha returned to 'Del-Phis,' and they soon secured a contract with 'Checkmate' studio, where they released their first single, 'I'll Let You Know.' However, the song did not gain much popularity, and the group was later signed by 'Motown.' Martha also worked as a secretary for one of the 'Motown' employees, William Stevenson, while continuing to record with 'Del-Phis.'

Martha and the Vandellas

In 1962, Gloria Williams, the group's leader, left due to constant failures, and Martha once again became the lead vocalist. On September 21, 1962, the group was transformed and renamed 'Martha and the Vandellas.' Thanks to Martha's talent, the group quickly rose from background singing to larger projects. Despite their success, the label decided to disband the group in the late 1960s, favoring another similar group at the time. This, combined with the tense relationships within the group, particularly with new member Betty Kelly, and the demanding schedule, led Martha to develop substance abuse problems with drugs and alcohol. By the end of the decade, she had a nervous breakdown and was admitted to a treatment facility.

Solo Career and Political Involvement

After recovering, Martha returned to music, this time starting her solo career. Her first album was released in 1974. By 1977, with the help of a friend, she completely overcame her substance abuse issues and became a devout Baptist. In 1983, she successfully sued 'Motown' for unpaid royalties.

In 2005, Martha ran for the Detroit City Council and won, marking the beginning of her political career. She focused on advocating for the youth and introducing progressive concepts to improve the lives of other musicians. However, in 2009, Martha lost her seat on the council and returned to music as part of the revived group 'Martha Reeves and the Vandellas.' Soon after the reunion, they embarked on a successful concert tour in the United Kingdom.