A Motown Christmas: Celebrating Legends with Halle Bailey and Smokey Robinson

This holiday season, fans of Motown music are in for a special treat as Halle Bailey and Smokey Robinson come together to host A Motown Christmas. Airing on NBC and streaming on Peacock, this two-hour tribute celebrates the legendary record label known for shaping the very fabric of American music and culture.

A Stellar Lineup

A Motown Christmas boasts an impressive lineup of performers who are set to take the stage. Notable artists such as Gladys Knight, Andra Day, The Temptations, Jamie Foxx, and Ashanti will be part of the spectacular event. Joining them will be BeBe Winans, JoJo, Martha Reeves & The Vandellas, Jordin Sparks, Machine Gun Kelly, October London, and Pentatonix. Together, they will present individual performances, heartfelt duets, and unforgettable group medleys, showcasing over 25 iconic Motown songs including classics like:

• “ABC”
• “Ain't No Mountain High Enough”
• “Dancing in the Streets”
• “I Heard It Through the Grapevine”
• “My Girl”
• “Reach Out (I'll Be There)”
• “Superstition”

Behind the Scenes with Halle and Smokey

The partnership between Bailey and Robinson blends old school with the new school, both musically and culturally. Reflecting on their experiences, Robinson shared, “When you grow up listening to this music, it lives inside of you forever.” This sentiment resonates deeply for Bailey, who fondly recalls her Christmases filled with Motown music, particularly the sweet sounds of The Miracles' “The Tracks of My Tears.”

Bailey, well known for her breakthrough role in Disney’s live-action The Little Mermaid, noted her early interactions with Motown through family traditions. Whether it was performed at a talent show or simply enjoyed during festive gatherings, the music weaved a rich tapestry into her life.

The Legacy of Motown

Motown, founded by Berry Gordy in 1959, revolutionized the music industry by giving a voice to Black artists who struggled for representation in mainstream media. Through hits that topped charts and moved hearts, the label launched the careers of legends like Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, and Stevie Wonder. At the Motown Museum, situated in Detroit, fans can travel back to the beginnings of this iconic movement and appreciate its enduring impact.

According to Robinson, who played a pivotal role as the lead of The Miracles and later as the label's vice president, the spirit of Motown persists in the current creative endeavors of artists like Bailey. “This lady right here, she’s living proof of the importance of Motown,” Robinson acknowledged, as he pointed to Bailey’s accomplishments and their connection through music.

Why Halle Bailey Was Nervous

In exclusive interviews, Bailey revealed her initial nervousness when it came to collaborating with Robinson, a moniker synonymous with Motown excellence. Her admiration for the legendary artist adds another layer of excitement to the holiday special, giving fans a glimpse into the emotional dynamics of performing together.

Bailey expressed gratitude for the opportunity to perform Motown classics. “It was truly an honor to perform those songs that sang in my heart since I was a little girl,” she shared, expressing the sense of fulfillment that comes from both honoring the past and contributing to it in her own way.

Conclusion: Don’t Miss A Motown Christmas

This holiday season, tune in to A Motown Christmas to watch Halle Bailey and Smokey Robinson guide viewers through a nostalgic journey filled with love, joy, and musical heritage. Set to air Wednesday, December 11 at 9 PM/8 PM CT on NBC, and available for streaming on Peacock shortly after, this special promises to be a celebration of talent resplendent with the stories and creativity that defined a generation.

Prepare to sing along to the timeless classics that shaped the hearts and minds of millions, leaving an indelible mark on music history.

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This comprehensive post highlights the contributions of Halle Bailey and Smokey Robinson, as well as the legendary impact of Motown Christmas within the Christmas television landscape.