The pioneering songwriter and Motown’s first receptionist co-wrote “Money (That’s What I Want)” and helped shape the label’s early history.
Janie Bradford, a pioneering figure in Motown’s history and co-writer of the label’s first major hit, has died at the age of 87 following a lengthy illness.
Bradford’s family confirmed that she died on August 21 at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles, following a prolonged health battle.
She was best known for co-writing “Money (That’s What I Want)”, one of Motown’s earliest breakthrough songs, while also contributing to numerous other tracks associated with the legendary Detroit record label.
The family said Bradford had recently been inducted into the Women Songwriters’ Hall of Fame and had received numerous awards and commendations throughout her career.
Berry Gordy pays tribute to Janie Bradford
Motown founder Berry Gordy expressed his grief following Bradford’s death, remembering her as one of the people who supported his vision from the earliest days of the company.
Gordy recalled that Bradford was involved with the organisation even before Motown officially became the music powerhouse it would eventually become.
He described her as smart, witty, talented and determined, noting that she initially became Motown’s first receptionist before her creative abilities took her into songwriting and other areas of the music business.
Gordy also described Bradford as one of the “Original Motown Family”, referring to the largely unrecognised group of people who helped build Motown during its formative years.
According to Gordy, Bradford was among those who believed in the dream before Motown became a global musical institution.
Bradford continued supporting young talent
Bradford’s contribution to the music community extended well beyond her years at Motown.
In the 1990s, she established the Heroes and Legends Scholarship Fund, through which she spent decades supporting young people pursuing their ambitions.
The organisation also helped celebrate and preserve the contributions of people who played important roles in building the music community.
Gordy remembered Bradford’s annual gatherings as occasions that brought members of the music community together and said she maintained a strong sense of family throughout her life.
Bradford leaves behind a legacy tied not only to some of Motown’s earliest music but also to the people and young talent she supported throughout her later years.