Martha Reeves , the legendary Motown singer, is fighting for a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Here’s what we know.
Martha Is Trying To Raise Money
The 81-year-old Heatwave singer must raise $55,000 to secure her major career milestone, as the prestigious plaques are not cheap.
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The Singer Can’t Afford The Expensive Honor
According to the Detroit Free Press , Martha couldn’t afford to pay for the expensive honor herself, generally paid for by the star’s record company or a large Hollywood studio.
She Was Chosen To Receive A Star
The Vandellas frontwoman was chosen to receive a star in 2021. Still, her former manager allegedly dropped the ball regarding securing the funds, resulting in a “year of fundraising wasted.”
Reeves Is Hoping That Fans Would Help
The singer and her new management now hope that fans will help compensate for the lost time by donating to the cause.
Martha’s Manager Talked To Media
Martha’s new manager, Chris Roe, told the Detroit Free Press , “Martha’s former representation got in over their heads on this. They didn’t realize how hard it would be and wasted a year of fundraising time. Now we’re down to the wire.”
They Are Trying To Collect Money
Roe has launched an intensive fundraising effort, partnering with companies and private contributors to assist Reeves in winning before June.
Singer Is Urging The Public To Donate
The seasoned talent agent urged the public to donate, saying, “It doesn’t take much to make a huge impact.”
Reeves Was So Happy
Reeves was overjoyed to learn that she had been chosen to receive a star in 2021 and exclaimed that her “wildest dreams are coming true.”
It Means A Lot To Martha
In a statement to the Detroit Free Press , her new manager echoed this sentiment and said, “This honor bestowed upon Martha has meant a lot.”
Martha Is Very Deserving
She added, “That star is there for generations to come, and Motown will always be stitched into the fabric of our society. So, it’s a great accomplishment. Martha is very deserving, and I’m happy to take her across the finish line.”
Their Goal Is To Collect $80k
To cover travel expenses, lodging costs, and a reception that will follow the ceremony, Martha and her manager are also asking for a further $25K in donations, bringing their goal to an astounding $80K.
The Management Hopes To Hold The Ceremony In The Latter Half Of This Year
The duo hopes to hold the ceremony in the latter half of this year to coincide with the 60th anniversary of Martha’s first album with Motown, Get These Memories , in 2023.
Reeve’s Hit Songs
Reeves had over a dozen hit songs as the lead singer of Martha and The Vandellas, including Quicksand , Jimmy Mack , I’m Ready for Love , and Dancing in the Street .
Martha’s Entry Into the Hall Of Fame
Martha was welcomed into the Hall of Fame in 1995 alongside past members Annette Beard, Rosalind Ashford, Lois Reeves, and Betty Kelly.
Start Of Reeves’s Career
Reeves, who was born in 1941, in Eufaula, Alabama, began her career as a struggling club singer.
Reeves Supported Herself
Between 1960 and 1961, Reeves supported herself by working various jobs during the day and performing jazz and blues classics at some of Detroit’s prestigious nightclubs.
Revees As A Councilwoman
Reeves was an elected councilwoman in her hometown of Detroit, Michigan, United States, from 2005 until 2009.
Director Mickey Stevenson Spotted Reeves
Reeves was spotted singing at the 20 Grand by Motown A&R director Mickey Stevenson, who recognized her talent, gave her his business card, and invited her to audition.
Martha’s Incredible Vocals
Shortly after she left the front desk and entered the recording studio, Martha’s incredible vocals made her one of the icons of 1960s soul.
