Meaning: The quote "People still look at Michael Jackson as being a Motown artist" by Smokey Robinson, a renowned musician, reflects the lasting impact of Michael Jackson's association with Motown Records and the influence of the Motown sound on his career. To fully understand the significance of this statement, it is essential to delve into the history of Motown Records and its role in shaping the musical landscape, as well as Michael Jackson's pivotal role in the label's success and his subsequent impact on popular culture.

Motown Records, founded by Berry Gordy in 1959, became a powerhouse in the music industry, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s, by producing hits that crossed racial and generational boundaries. The label's distinctive sound, characterized by catchy melodies, polished production, and emotionally resonant lyrics, came to define the "Motown sound." Artists like The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and The Temptations became synonymous with the label and contributed to its enduring legacy.

One of Motown's most iconic artists was Michael Jackson, who, along with his brothers in The Jackson 5, signed with the label in 1968. Under Motown's guidance, The Jackson 5 achieved immense success with chart-topping hits like "I Want You Back," "ABC," and "I'll Be There." These early successes not only established Michael Jackson as a talented performer but also cemented his association with the Motown brand.

Although Michael Jackson eventually parted ways with Motown Records and pursued a solo career, the impact of his time with the label continued to shape his identity as an artist. His transition to a solo career in the late 1970s and early 1980s saw him collaborate with Quincy Jones and produce the landmark album "Off the Wall," followed by the groundbreaking "Thriller." These albums propelled Jackson to unprecedented levels of fame and solidified his status as a global pop icon.

Despite his evolution as an artist and his departure from Motown, the label's influence remained palpable in Jackson's music. The polished production, infectious melodies, and heartfelt lyrics that characterized the "Motown sound" continued to resonate in his solo work. Furthermore, his performance style, honed during his time with The Jackson 5, showcased the influence of Motown's emphasis on showmanship and stage presence.

Smokey Robinson's quote encapsulates the enduring perception of Michael Jackson as a Motown artist, emphasizing the lasting impact of his formative years with the label. Jackson's ability to seamlessly blend elements of the Motown sound with his evolving artistic vision speaks to the indelible mark left by his association with the label.

Moreover, the quote serves as a reminder of the profound influence Motown Records had on shaping the careers of legendary artists, including Michael Jackson. It underscores the label's role in nurturing and cultivating talent, as well as its ability to leave an indelible mark on the music industry.

In conclusion, Smokey Robinson's quote succinctly encapsulates the enduring association between Michael Jackson and Motown Records. It highlights the label's profound influence on Jackson's early career and the lasting impact of the "Motown sound" on his music. Through his time with Motown, Michael Jackson not only established himself as a formidable talent but also contributed to the label's storied history, leaving an indelible mark on popular music that continues to resonate to this day.