What is Motown, and when was it founded?

Motown is an American record label owned by Universal Music Group. It was founded by Berry Gordy Jr. as Tamla Records on January 12, 1959, and officially incorporated as Motown Record Corporation on April 14, 1960. The label originated in Detroit, Michigan, a city known as the "Motor City."

What is the origin and meaning of the name "Motown"?

The name "Motown" is a portmanteau, combining the words "motor" and "town." This name reflects its origins in Detroit, Michigan, which is famously nicknamed the "Motor City" due to its central role in the American automotive industry.

How did Motown contribute to racial integration in the music industry?

Motown played a vital role in the racial integration of popular music by being a highly successful African American-owned record label. Its artists achieved significant crossover success with white audiences, helping to break down racial barriers and foster greater acceptance of Black artists and their music.

What defined the "Motown sound"?

The "Motown sound" was a distinctive style of soul music characterized by a pop-influenced appeal. Key elements included the prominent use of tambourines to accent the backbeat, melodic electric bass lines, sophisticated chord structures, and a call-and-response singing style rooted in gospel music traditions.

What production techniques were characteristic of the Motown sound?

Motown productions often featured orchestral string sections, arranged horn sections, and carefully crafted background vocals. The approach generally avoided overly complex arrangements or elaborate vocal melismas, adhering to a principle of simplicity for broader appeal, particularly for radio play.

How did Motown's production process operate like a factory?

Motown's production was often described as factory-like due to its highly organized and efficient system. Studios were kept open for extended hours, artists frequently recorded numerous songs during breaks from touring, and Berry Gordy Jr. held weekly quality control meetings to ensure only the highest quality material was released.

What was the historical significance of the Hitsville U.S.A. building?

The Hitsville U.S.A. building, located at 2648 West Grand Boulevard in Detroit, served as Motown's headquarters and primary recording studio from 1959 to 1968. This iconic location became the creative hub for many of Motown's legendary recordings and later transformed into the Motown Historical Museum.

Who were some of the key songwriters responsible for Motown's early hits?

Several influential songwriters contributed to Motown's success. The prolific trio Holland-Dozier-Holland (Lamont Dozier and brothers Brian and Eddie Holland) penned many hits, particularly for The Supremes. Other significant contributors included Norman Whitfield, Smokey Robinson, and Berry Gordy Jr. himself.

What role did "The Funk Brothers" play in the Motown sound?

The Funk Brothers were the core group of uncredited studio musicians who provided the instrumental backing for the vast majority of Motown recordings. Their exceptional musicianship, including iconic basslines by James Jamerson and drumming by Benny Benjamin, was fundamental to defining the signature "Motown sound."

How did Motown's artist development program aim to shape artist image and perception?

Motown's artist development program meticulously groomed its artists in terms of presentation, poise, and social graces. The goal was to cultivate an image of sophistication and royalty, countering negative stereotypes of Black musicians and presenting a polished image to a wider, predominantly white, audience.

What was the purpose of the "Motortown Revue"?

The Motortown Revue was an annual touring package that provided Motown artists, especially younger ones, with opportunities to refine their performance skills and stage presence. These tours were popular on the Chitlin' Circuit and internationally, serving as a crucial part of the label's artist development strategy.

Why did Berry Gordy Jr. establish multiple subsidiary labels under the Motown umbrella?

Berry Gordy Jr. established subsidiary labels, such as Gordy Records and Soul Records, for several strategic reasons. These included avoiding potential payola accusations if too many songs from a single label were played, and allowing for internal marketing flexibility by categorizing different artists and sounds.

What were some of the major subsidiary labels created by Motown?

Motown operated several significant subsidiary labels, including Tamla Records (its original label), Gordy Records (initially Miracle Records), Soul Records, and V.I.P. Records. While distinct, these labels often shared the same writers, producers, and musicians, and artists were frequently moved between them for marketing purposes.

What was the function of the Tamla Motown label in the United Kingdom?

The Tamla Motown label was established in March 1965 through a distribution agreement with EMI Records Limited. It served as Motown's primary label for releases outside the United States, distributing its music internationally and often issuing records not released domestically.

When did Motown relocate from Detroit to Los Angeles, and what was the primary reason?

Motown began its transition to Los Angeles in the late 1960s, with operations gradually shifting. The company officially announced the complete move of its operations to Los Angeles on June 14, 1972. The primary motivation for this move was Berry Gordy Jr.'s ambition to expand Motown into the film and television production industry.

What was the impact of the Holland-Dozier-Holland songwriting team leaving Motown?

The departure of the influential songwriting trio Holland-Dozier-Holland in 1967, due to royalty disputes, led to Norman Whitfield becoming Motown's leading producer. Despite this significant loss, Motown continued to produce successful music, with Whitfield guiding artists like The Temptations and Marvin Gaye.

Which critically acclaimed albums were released by Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder during the early 1970s?

During the early 1970s, Motown granted artists more creative freedom, resulting in landmark albums such as Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On" (1971) and "Let's Get It On" (1973), and Stevie Wonder's "Music of My Mind" (1972), "Talking Book" (1972), and "Innervisions" (1973). These releases showcased artistic maturity and expanded the label's musical boundaries.

What notable films were produced by Motown Productions?

Motown Productions expanded into filmmaking, producing successful movies such as "Lady Sings the Blues" (1972) and "Mahogany" (1975), both starring Diana Ross. Other films included "Scott Joplin" (1977), "Thank God It's Friday" (1978), "The Wiz" (1978), and "The Last Dragon" (1985), leveraging Motown's brand and talent.

When did Berry Gordy Jr. sell Motown, and what was the sale price?

Berry Gordy Jr. sold his ownership stake in Motown to MCA Records and Boston Ventures in June 1988 for $61 million. This transaction marked the end of Motown's period as an independent company.

What was the role of Bernie Yeszin in establishing Motown's visual identity?

Bernie Yeszin, hired as Motown's art director in 1962, was responsible for developing the label's visual style and designing many of its "sophisticated" album covers. His work significantly contributed to Motown's polished and recognizable brand image.

Who took over leadership of Motown in the early 2000s, and what was their impact?

Kedar Massenburg became the head of Motown after its acquisition by Universal Music Group in the early 2000s. He oversaw successful recordings from artists like Erykah Badu and India.Arie, playing a key role in restructuring the label during that period.

Which long-standing Motown artists had periods of recording with other labels?

Several iconic Motown artists, including Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson, Stevie Wonder, and The Temptations, recorded for other labels at various points in their careers before returning to Motown or moving on. For instance, Diana Ross recorded for RCA from 1981 to 1988 before returning to Motown.

What was the first US number-one hit single released on the Tamla label?

The first US number-one hit for Tamla Records was "Please Mr. Postman," performed by The Marvelettes, which reached the top spot in 1961. This marked a significant early success for the label.

What was the primary focus of the Soul Records subsidiary?

Soul Records, established in 1964, served as a Motown subsidiary for R&B and soul music releases that leaned more towards a blues feel rather than a jazz influence. Notable artists on the Soul label included Jr. Walker & the All-Stars and Gladys Knight & the Pips.

What was the purpose of the Rare Earth Records label?

Rare Earth Records, launched in 1969, was a Motown subsidiary dedicated to blues-oriented and progressive rock music. Named after the band Rare Earth, it was notable for being the first label to sign a white rock band to Motown.

What kind of content was released on the Black Forum Records label?

Black Forum Records was a Motown subsidiary operating from 1970 to 1973, focusing on spoken-word albums. It primarily released recordings of progressive political speeches and poetry related to the civil rights movement, featuring artists like Martin Luther King Jr. and Stokely Carmichael.

How did Jon Landau describe the Motown sound in his 1971 Rolling Stone article?

In 1971, Jon Landau described the Motown sound in Rolling Stone as featuring songs with simple structures but sophisticated melodies. He noted the use of a four-beat drum pattern, horns and strings, and a trebly mix optimized for AM radio broadcast, achieved through heavy electronic limiting and equalization.

What was the significance of the "call-and-response" singing style in Motown music?

The "call-and-response" singing style, a technique borrowed from gospel music, was a key element of the Motown sound. This involves a lead vocalist or group singing a phrase, followed by a response from another singer or group, creating a dynamic vocal interplay that added depth and engagement to the songs.

What role did James Jamerson play as a bassist in the Funk Brothers?

James Jamerson was a pivotal bassist in the Funk Brothers, the studio band behind many Motown hits. He was renowned for his distinctive basslines, often played with just his index finger, which became a signature characteristic of the Motown sound, famously featured in songs like "Up the Ladder to the Roof."

What was the purpose of the Gordy Records label?

Gordy Records was established as a primary subsidiary for mainstream R&B and soul music under the Motown umbrella. Initially named Miracle Records, it was renamed Gordy Records to avoid confusion with the singing group The Miracles and featured artists like The Temptations and Martha and the Vandellas.

What was the purpose of the V.I.P. Records label?

V.I.P. Records, founded in 1964, served as a Motown subsidiary for R&B and soul music. It also acted as an outlet for pop records that Motown licensed from EMI for European distribution, releasing music from artists such as The Velvelettes and The Spinners.

What was the purpose of the Mel-o-dy Records label?

Mel-o-dy Records began as a secondary R&B/soul subsidiary for Motown in 1962 but later shifted its focus to country music artists. It was dissolved in 1965, with its catalog eventually being managed by Mercury Nashville Records.

What was the purpose of the Workshop Jazz Records label?

Workshop Jazz Records was Motown's dedicated subsidiary for jazz music, operating from 1962 to 1964. It released jazz recordings by artists such as Earl Washington All Stars, and its catalog is now managed by Verve Records.

What was the purpose of the Hitsville Records label?

Hitsville Records, originally named Melodyland Records, was a Motown subsidiary established in 1974 that focused on country music. It was operated by Mike Curb and Ray Ruff and featured artists like Ronnie Dove and Pat Boone before its dissolution in 1977.

What was the purpose of the Weed Records label?

Weed Records was a very short-lived Motown subsidiary, releasing only one album in 1969 by Chris Clark. The label was known for its tongue-in-cheek tagline and a logo that parodied the Stax Records logo, reflecting a playful, albeit brief, venture into rock-oriented music.

What was the purpose of the M.C. Records label?

M.C. Records operated from 1977 to 1978 as a continuation of the Hitsville label, focusing on country music. It was a joint venture between Berry Gordy and Mike Curb, and its catalog is now managed by Mercury Nashville Records.

What was the purpose of the Wondirection Records label?

Wondirection Records was a label owned by Stevie Wonder that released a single 12-inch dance track in 1983 titled "The Crown" by Gary Byrd and the GB Experience. This represented an early foray into hip-hop for an artist closely associated with Motown.

What was the purpose of the Mad Sounds Recordings label?

Mad Sounds Recordings was a short-lived hip-hop and rap subsidiary label of Motown that released five albums in the mid-1990s. It featured artists such as Tha Mexakinz and Rottin Razkals, expanding Motown's reach into contemporary urban music genres.

What was the purpose of the Blaze Records label?

Blaze Records was a short-lived Motown label that released a single instrumental track in September 1969 by Jack Ashford. It was part of Motown's broader strategy to explore various musical genres and artists beyond its core R&B and soul base.

What was the purpose of the Mo Jazz Records label?

Mo Jazz Records was a successful jazz label established by Motown in the 1990s. It featured jazz artists like Norman Brown and Norman Connors and also reissued instrumental albums, with its catalog eventually being integrated into Verve Records.

What was the purpose of the Morocco Records label?

Morocco Records, an acronym for "Motown Rock Company," was a rock music subsidiary that operated briefly from 1983 to 1984. It aimed to revive the concept of the Rare Earth Records label, releasing seven albums and promoting artists like Duke Jupiter.

What was the purpose of the Divinity Records label?

Divinity Records was a short-lived gospel music subsidiary of Motown, active from 1962 to 1963. It released five recordings by gospel artists, including Liz Lands, and was associated with a withdrawn recording of Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech.

What was the purpose of the Gaiee Records label?

Gaiee Records was a Motown label that released only one single in 1975: Valentino's song "I Was Born This Way." This track later gained wider recognition when it was covered by fellow Motown artist Carl Bean in 1977.

What was the role of Biv 10 Records in distribution with Motown?

Biv 10 Records, a hip-hop and R&B label founded by Michael Bivins, was distributed by Motown throughout the 1990s. This partnership allowed Motown to distribute music from artists like Another Bad Creation and Boyz II Men, expanding its urban music portfolio.

What was the purpose of Chisa Records in its distribution deal with Motown?

Chisa Records was a label owned by Hugh Masekela, whose music Motown distributed between 1969 and 1972. This arrangement enabled Motown to distribute recordings by artists outside its immediate roster, broadening its musical offerings.

What was the purpose of CTI Records in its distribution deal with Motown?

Motown distributed music for CTI Records, a jazz label owned by Creed Taylor, from 1974 to 1975. This distribution agreement included CTI subsidiaries like Kudu Records, extending Motown's reach into the jazz market.

What was the purpose of Ecology Records?

Ecology Records was a very brief-lived label owned by Sammy Davis Jr. and distributed by Motown. Its sole release was a 1971 single by Davis titled "In My Own Lifetime."

What was the purpose of Gull Records in its distribution deal with Motown?

Gull Records, a UK-based label, had its output distributed in the US by Motown in 1975. Although a planned distribution of Judas Priest's album "Sad Wings of Destiny" through Motown did not materialize, the agreement allowed Motown to distribute other Gull artists.

What was the purpose of Manticore Records in its distribution deal with Motown?

Manticore Records, a label created by the members of Emerson, Lake & Palmer, was distributed in the U.S. by Motown from 1975 until the label's closure in 1977. This partnership allowed Motown to distribute progressive rock artists.

What is the significance of the "call-and-response" singing style in Motown music?

The "call-and-response" singing style, originating from gospel music traditions, was a key element of the Motown sound. This technique involves a lead singer or group singing a phrase, which is then answered by another singer or group, creating a dynamic vocal interaction that enhanced the songs' appeal.

What was the purpose of the "Motown piano" in the context of the Funk Brothers?

Keyboardists like Earl Van Dyke, Johnny Griffith, and Joe Hunter were integral members of the Funk Brothers, the studio musicians responsible for the instrumental tracks of most Motown recordings. Their keyboard performances, including distinctive electric piano and organ parts, were crucial in shaping the characteristic sound of Motown music.

Motown Wiki: Motown: The Sound That Defined a Generation

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The Genesis of Motown

Detroit's Foundation

Motown Records, initially established as Tamla Records on January 12, 1959, by Berry Gordy Jr., emerged from the heart of Detroit, Michigan. Its name, a portmanteau of "motor" and "town," directly references Detroit's status as the center of the American automotive industry.

Berry Gordy's Vision

Gordy, a former boxer and songwriter, envisioned a record label that would not only produce hit music but also serve as a catalyst for racial integration in popular music. His ambition was to create an African American-owned enterprise capable of achieving significant crossover success with white audiences.

Early Ventures

Gordy's initial foray into the music business included a record store and songwriting collaborations, notably with artists like Jackie Wilson. The formation of Tamla Records, followed by Anna Records and the establishment of the Jobete music publishing company, laid the groundwork for the future Motown empire.

A Journey Through Time

The Detroit Era (1959-1972)

The label's formative years in Detroit, centered around the legendary Hitsville U.S.A. studio, saw the birth of the distinctive "Motown sound." This period was marked by an unprecedented string of chart-topping hits and the development of iconic artists.

1959: Tamla Records founded; Gordy purchases property at 2648 West Grand Boulevard.
1960: Motown Record Corporation officially incorporated; "Shop Around" by The Miracles becomes the first million-selling record.
1961: The Marvelettes achieve Tamla's first US number-one hit with "Please Mr. Postman."
Mid-1960s: The "Motown sound" dominates charts with artists like The Supremes, Four Tops, and The Temptations.
1967: Holland-Dozier-Holland songwriting team departs; Norman Whitfield rises as chief producer.
1972: Motown operations relocate to Los Angeles, expanding into film and television production.

Los Angeles and Beyond (1972-Present)

The move to Los Angeles signaled a new chapter, with Motown diversifying into film and television. Despite changes in ownership and market dynamics, the label continued to evolve, adapting its sound and roster.

1972: Relocation to Los Angeles; launch of Motown Productions.
1988: Berry Gordy sells Motown to MCA Records.
1993: PolyGram purchases the label.
1999: Universal Music Group acquires PolyGram, integrating Motown into its portfolio.
2011-2014: Operates under Island Def Jam Music Group, then reorganizes as a subsidiary of Capitol Music Group.
2021: Motown separates from Capitol Music Group to operate as a standalone label.
2024: Becomes part of UMG's Republic Corps.

The Signature Motown Sound

Rhythmic Foundation

Characterized by a distinctive blend of soul, pop, and R&B, the Motown sound often featured prominent tambourines accenting a solid backbeat, melodic and often complex electric bass lines, and a four-beat drum pattern.

Melodic Sophistication

The sound prioritized accessible pop structures while retaining soulful melodies and chord progressions. Call-and-response vocal techniques, rooted in gospel music, were frequently employed, creating a rich vocal tapestry.

Instrumentation: Use of orchestral strings, horn sections, and carefully arranged background vocals.
Mixing: A trebly mix emphasizing high frequencies, optimized for AM radio broadcast.
Simplicity: Adherence to the "KISS principle" (Keep It Simple, Stupid), avoiding overly complex arrangements or melismatic vocals.
Factory Approach: A highly organized, almost factory-like production process, with studios operating nearly 24/7 and rigorous quality control meetings.

The Architects

Key figures like Berry Gordy, Smokey Robinson, Norman Whitfield, and the songwriting trio Holland-Dozier-Holland, alongside the session musicians known as The Funk Brothers, were instrumental in crafting this unique and enduring sound.

The Motown Family

Vocal Powerhouses

Motown cultivated an unparalleled roster of vocal talent, producing artists who became global icons and defined eras of popular music.

The Supremes: Led by Diana Ross, they became Motown's most successful act.
Marvin Gaye: Known for his evolving sound and socially conscious albums like "What's Going On."
Stevie Wonder: A child prodigy whose innovative artistry defined his career.
The Temptations: Renowned for their smooth harmonies and dynamic stage presence.
The Four Tops: Celebrated for their powerful lead vocals and energetic performances.

Crossover Appeal

Motown's artists consistently achieved crossover success, reaching mainstream white audiences and breaking down racial barriers in the music industry. This success was attributed not only to the music but also to the label's meticulous artist development program.

The Jackson 5

The Jackson 5, discovered by Motown in 1968, became one of the label's biggest phenomena. Their infectious energy and string of early hits cemented their status as pop royalty.

A Network of Labels

Core Imprints

Motown operated numerous subsidiary labels, each contributing to its vast catalog and diverse musical output. These labels often shared artists, writers, and producers, creating a cohesive yet varied sound.

Tamla Records (1959): The original label, focusing on mainstream R&B/soul.
Motown Records (1960): The flagship label, synonymous with the "Sound of Young America."
Gordy Records (1962): Initially Miracle Records, it featured artists like The Temptations and Martha & the Vandellas.
Soul Records (1964): Focused on releases with a stronger blues or R&B feel.
V.I.P. Records (1964): Released R&B/soul music and served as an outlet for EMI pop records distributed in Europe.

Genre Diversification

Beyond its core R&B and soul output, Motown launched labels dedicated to other genres, including rock, jazz, country, and spoken word, demonstrating its broad musical ambitions.

Rare Earth Records (1969): Focused on blues-oriented and progressive rock.
Workshop Jazz Records (1962): Motown's jazz subsidiary.
Mel-o-dy Records (1962): Initially R&B, later focused on country music.
Black Forum Records (1970): Featured spoken-word albums related to civil rights and politics.

International Presence

The "Tamla Motown" label was established in the UK in 1965 through a licensing agreement with EMI, facilitating the distribution of Motown's releases across Europe and solidifying its international reach.

Notable Artists

The Golden Age

Motown's roster during its peak years (roughly 1960s-1970s) included an extraordinary collection of talent that defined American popular music.

Smokey Robinson & The Miracles
Mary Wells
The Marvelettes
The Supremes
The Temptations
The Four Tops
Marvin Gaye
Stevie Wonder
Martha Reeves & The Vandellas
Gladys Knight & The Pips
Jr. Walker & The All Stars
The Jackson 5

Contemporary Stars

In recent years, Motown has continued to sign and develop contemporary artists, particularly in the hip-hop and R&B genres, maintaining its relevance in the modern music landscape.

Erykah Badu
Kem
Ne-Yo
Lil Yachty
Migos
City Girls
Lil Baby
Vince Staples
Bree Runway
Tiwa Savage
Brandy
Diddy
Smino
YoungBoy Never Broke Again

Hitsville U.S.A.

The Creative Hub

The iconic Hitsville U.S.A. building at 2648 West Grand Boulevard in Detroit served as Motown's headquarters and primary recording studio from 1959 to 1968. It housed administrative offices, tape libraries, control rooms, and the legendary Studio A.

The Funk Brothers

The backbone of the Motown sound was the Funk Brothers, a collective of highly skilled session musicians. Their instrumental prowess and innovative arrangements were crucial to the label's success, playing on countless hits.

Bass: James Jamerson, Bob Babbitt
Guitar: Robert White, Eddie Willis, Joe Messina, Ray Monette
Keyboards: Earl Van Dyke, Johnny Griffith, Joe Hunter
Drums: Benny Benjamin, Uriel Jones, Richard "Pistol" Allen
Percussion: Jack Ashford, Eddie "Bongo" Brown

Cultural Impact & Legacy

Breaking Barriers

Motown's success played a pivotal role in the racial integration of popular music. By achieving widespread appeal across racial lines, the label demonstrated the power of music to bridge cultural divides and challenge societal norms.

Enduring Influence

The "Motown sound" continues to influence musicians across genres. Its sophisticated yet accessible production techniques and timeless melodies remain a benchmark in the music industry.

Foundation for Northern Soul in the UK.
Inspiration for numerous artists across soul, pop, R&B, and hip-hop.
The "factory" production model influenced subsequent record label operations.
The meticulous artist development set a standard for performer presentation.

Cultural Preservation

The Hitsville U.S.A. building is preserved as the Motown Museum, celebrating the label's rich history and its profound contribution to American culture and music.

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References

Ron Thibodeaux, "My Smokey Valentine", The Times-Picayune (New Orleans, La.), February 14, 2009.

Chin, Brian & David Nathan, "Reflections Of..." The Supremes [CD boxed-set liner notes] (New York: Motown Record Co./Universal Music, 2000).

Pitts, Leonard, Jr. âThe Motown Factorâ. Jazziz. Issue 20.12. Dec. 2003. 60â62. Print.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Motown Wikipedia page

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Motown: The Sound That Defined a Generation

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

The Genesis of Motown 🌟

🏢 Detroit's Foundation

🤝 Berry Gordy's Vision

💡 Early Ventures

A Journey Through Time ⏳

🎶 The Detroit Era (1959-1972)

🎬 Los Angeles and Beyond (1972-Present)

The Signature Motown Sound 🎼

🥁 Rhythmic Foundation

🎤 Melodic Sophistication

⭐ The Architects

The Motown Family 👑

🎤 Vocal Powerhouses

🌟 Crossover Appeal

🚀 The Jackson 5

A Network of Labels 🗂️

🏛️ Core Imprints

🎸 Genre Diversification

🇬🇧 International Presence

Notable Artists ⭐

🎶 The Golden Age

🎤 Contemporary Stars

Hitsville U.S.A. 🏠

🎙️ The Creative Hub

🎹 The Funk Brothers

Cultural Impact & Legacy 🌍

🕊️ Breaking Barriers

🎵 Enduring Influence

🏛️ Cultural Preservation

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

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References

📜 References

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Genesis of Motown

Detroit's Foundation

Berry Gordy's Vision

Early Ventures

A Journey Through Time

The Detroit Era (1959-1972)

Los Angeles and Beyond (1972-Present)

The Signature Motown Sound

Rhythmic Foundation

Melodic Sophistication

The Architects

The Motown Family

Vocal Powerhouses

Crossover Appeal

The Jackson 5

A Network of Labels

Core Imprints

Genre Diversification

International Presence

Notable Artists

The Golden Age

Contemporary Stars

Hitsville U.S.A.

The Creative Hub

The Funk Brothers

Cultural Impact & Legacy

Breaking Barriers

Enduring Influence

Cultural Preservation

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice