Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever

Each year, the Peabody Board reviews a number of awards and anniversary programs submitted in nomination. While they often commemorate significant individuals and events, most of these shows are severely restricted by their format and quickly become tiresome and tedious. A glorious exception to this trend was this year’s Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever which celebrated a quarter-century of the record label that launched the careers of many of our premier artists and performers. Production numbers were distinguished by crisp direction, excellent sound mixing, and the virtual absence of “canned” or “lip-synched” performances. In addition, the program included rarely seen film and tape segments including the 1968 audition performance of Michael Jackson and family. For a thoroughly entertaining tribute to a truly unique style of American music, a Peabody Award to NBC and Motown Productions for Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever.