Who's Lovin' You

Released in 1969 by Tamla Records, this compilation served as a unique historical document of Motown's roster during its golden era. The album features twelve tracks with five distinct cover versions of the same Smokey Robinson composition: Who's Lovin' You. Unlike standard studio albums, this budget release sold for $1.99 and targeted specifically at the R&B market rather than the mainstream pop charts.

The Miracles recorded the original version in 1960 as a stark piano-and-voice ballad. The Supremes offered a polished, harmonized take while the Temptations delivered a grittier soul arrangement. Brenda & the Tabulations turned it into a modest R&B hit that peaked at number 20 on the Billboard chart. The Jackson 5 provided the version that would achieve the most lasting fame. Recorded just months after the group signed with Motown, eleven-year-old Michael Jackson delivered an emotionally raw vocal performance that stunned session musicians.

Musically the album spans the genres of Soul and Motown showcasing the label's diverse production styles ranging from the early 1960s balladry of the Miracles to the youthful energy of the Jackson 5. Despite featuring iconic performances including the Jackson 5's breakout hit I Want You Back the album itself did not chart on the Billboard 200. It was not promoted as a major commercial release but has survived as a curious compilation and time capsule of the label's 1960s output. [bearbeiten]