Morgan Enos

MusiCares Person of the Year: Motown Playlist - SHELL ARTICLE

For a primer or refresher on the storied partnership between Berry Gordy and Smokey Robinson on Motown Records, here are 40 songs that bear both of their fingerprints.

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The joint legacies of Berry Gordy and Smokey Robinson can seem almost incalculable. After all, their imprints on American music and culture are so profound as to be irreversible.

Gordy founded the titanic Detroit label Motown Records back in 1959. And just as crucial to its legacy is Robinson, Gordy's first signee — as well as his creative and business partner, and best friend of more than 65 years.

For all its enormity, it *is* possible to contain the essence of this partnership in 40 songs — ones Robinson sang for Motown, or wrote for another Motown artist. In one way or another, each of the tracks below bears the stamp of each American innovator.

Before Gordy and Robinson's legacies will be celebrated at the 2023 MusiCares Persons Of The Year gala on Feb. 3, brush up on some of the most iconic and pivotal Motown tracks.

Below, listen to a 40-track playlist that highlights just a handful of the contributions Gordy and Robinson have made to music, from "Shop Around" to "My Girl" to "Who's Lovin' You" and beyond.

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[5 Ways Berry Gordy And Smokey Robinson's Philanthropic Efforts Supported The Music Community &amp; The World](https://www.musicares.org/news/smokey-robinson-berry-gordy-persons-of-the-year-2023-grammys-honorees-motown-support-music-community-charity-philanthropy)

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Berry Gordy & Robinson In 40 Songs: Listen

Listen: 40 Songs To Honor Berry Gordy & Smokey Robinson, The 2023 MusiCares Persons Of The Year

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Kate Ferber

Mix Master Mike & Patty Schemel Detail How Staying Sober Gave Their Career Life: Musicians In Recovery Panel Recap

The Beastie Boys star and Hole drummer joined MusiCares and Sober 21 to tell their stories of recovery and encourage self-care for the next generation. Here, watch the interview and read key takeaways from the important conversation.

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If you've ever wondered how rock stars get sober and stay sober, MusiCares and Sober 21 are shedding light on sobriety in the music world with a continuation of its collaborative panel series. Titled Musicians in Recovery, the ongoing series recently featured Beastie Boys' Mix Master Mike and Hole's Patty Schemel, who both opened up about their journey to sobriety.

Moderated by [Elia Einhorn, ](https://linktr.ee/eliaeinhorn)founder of Sober 21, and Brendan Berry, MusiCares' Mental Health &amp; Addiction Services Client Manager, the hour-long panel featured an in-depth discussion of the unique challenges of getting sober as a well-known musician, and the doors that opened once they started over in recovery.

Each panel will be recorded, and all videos will be available online to serve as a resource for those who are getting sober and in recovery.

Watch the conversation with Mix Master Mike and Patty Schemel, and read three important takeaways below.

*This video contains strong language and drug/alcohol references.*

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### You won't lose your musical "superpowers" if you get sober.

A prominent fear for both Patty and Mike was: "What happens when I quit? Am I going to be who I am? I still gonna be that superhero that people know me as?"

"I got my superpowers from doing \[drugs\]," Mix Master Mike (whose birth name is Michael Schwartz) shared. "I thought it made me the best musician I could be."

But he added that sobriety actually "magnifies us," makes us less numb and more real. Patty echoed that: "Your career will only *begin* when you get clean."

All four panelists agreed that what felt a superpower was, in reality, a delusion, and becoming a reliable human being gives you the ability to be of better service to the music, your collaborators, and the fans.

### The path to sobriety in music has already been paved.

When Einhorn asked who Schwartz and Schemel looked to as sober inspiration in music, they found it was the same act: Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Anthony Kiedis and Flea have been openly sober since the late '90s. Their harrowing and inspiring stories serve as inspiration for many, because not only did they survive substance abuse disorder and earn continuous sobriety, but they created some of their best work during their recovery. The Chili Peppers showed Schwartz, Schemel and the world that it's possible to be a sober rock star and make amazing music.

But Schwartz and Schemel are themselves role models for the new generation."You two are people that younger people might be looking at right now and thinking 'damn, they did it; they went through the hell, and they came out of it and stayed sober, and that's a powerful thing,'" Einhorn said.

Schwartz got sober in 1998, right when he was asked to join the Beastie Boys in the studio and on tour - a period that solidified the group as hip-hop royalty. "I was not going to let substance abuse tear down what I worked so hard for," he shared, "I couldn't bring that life into their world."

During Schemel's time as the drummer of Hole, Courtney Love's '90s rock band, drugs and alcohol were running the show. She was referred to MusiCares for help (then it was called MAP, Musician's Assistance Program), but she shared that it wasn't until her third time in rehab that her sobriety took root. "It doesn't always happen the first time," she shared, offering hope that even if your path to sobriety has starts and stops, you can still get there.

### Music is a natural high.

Schwartz and Schemel agreed that music itself is the finest elixir that can elevate the spirit, heal, and set us free. The music itself can change your mind, no substances necessary; that clarity and pure expression can grant you a natural high like no other. And playing music, whether it's for a crowd or alone at home, is also its own therapy.

Those who suffer with substance use disorder commonly seek to be released from their feelings. Drugs and alcohol mute and numb feelings for a period, but they only postpone (and likely deepen) the need for healing. Going straight to the music, with support and the help of effective recovery tools and treatment, can put you in the express lane to recovery and mental wellness.

For his closing message, Mix Master Mike gave simple advice to his fellow musicians: Get into what you love.

"Put all your energy and effort into what you love and what you believe in," he said. Not only will that fulfill you as an artist, but it will build a strong foundation for recovery.

[Musicians In Recovery Panel Recap: Moby, Elia Einhorn &amp; Maluca Mala Detail Their Journeys To Getting Sober — And How To Stay Hopeful On Your Own Path](https://www.musicares.org/news/musicians-in-recovery-panel-recap-video-stream-moby-elia-einhorn-maluca-mala-sobriety-journey-addiction)

Mix Master Mike & Patty Schemel On Staying Sober

Mix Master Mike & Patty Schemel Detail How Staying Sober Gave Their Careers Life: Musicians In Recovery Panel Recap

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Photo: Courtesy of MusiCares and Sober 21

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Mix Master Mike/Patty Schemel Musicians In Recovery Recap Hero

Breana Phelps

Here's What's Happening At MusiCares This Month: May 2023

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, MusiCares is offering several programs and resources dedicated to addressing mental health needs of the music community.

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Every month, MusiCares offers a variety of programs, support groups, and health clinics to music people in need. This May, MusiCares is honoring Mental Health Awareness Month with a number of resources dedicated to mental health awareness and the unique struggles within the music community.

Programming kicks off with a hearing clinic at Desert Hearts Music Festival on May 6, followed by the continuation of our Musicians in Recovery series on May 9. MusiCares is also launching a brand new emotional health support group for songwriters and composers this month. 

Take a look at the full event list below to see what MusiCares has coming up. Be sure to check back here throughout the month for additional programs and updates!

### May 6: Desert Hearts Music Festival

MusiCares is hosting a hearing clinic during Desert Hearts Music Festival in Los Angeles. Eligible professionals will be fitted for free, custom ear plugs during the hearing clinic. 

Additionally, MusiCares will be providing Naloxone training and distribution.

All services are open to artists and crew only, while supplies last. 

**DATE:** May 6\
**TIME:** TBD

### May 16: Musicians In Recovery Featuring Patty Schemel &amp; Mix Master Mike

*Presented by MusiCares &amp; [Sober 21](https://thecreativeindependent.com/library/sober-21/)*

Join us for the second installment of our Musicians in Recovery series in partnership with [Sober 21](https://thecreativeindependent.com/library/sober-21/), Elia Einhorn's project in collaboration with [The Creative Independent](https://thecreativeindependent.com/). 

Moderated by Brendan Berry, MusiCares' Mental Health &amp; Addiction Recovery Services Client Manager, the recorded hour-long discussion will feature Patty Schemel and Mix Master Mike as they share their personal experiences getting sober in the music world. 

**DATE:** May 9\
**WATCH:** Premiering on MusiCares' [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/user/MusiCaresFoundation?app=desktop) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/MusiCares/) pages. Link coming soon.

### May 18: Care/Feel: Queer Mental Wellness in the Music Industry w/ Adam Lambert &amp; Guests

*In Partnership With [Feel Something Foundation](https://feelsomethingfoundation.org/) &amp; [BMG](https://www.bmg.com/us/)*

MusiCares will be co-hosting an event with Adam Lambert's Feel Something Foundation and BMG on May 11. The hour-long panel discussion will be moderated by Adam Lambert joined by LGBTQIA+ industry professionals and artists discussing the intersection of queer identity and mental wellness in the music industry.

This in-person event is invite-only, but recorded content and coverage from the event will be shared across MusiCares' social media pages at a later date. 

**DATE:** May 11\
**TIME:** 6:00PM - 9:00PM PT\
**REGISTRATION:** In-Person Event, Invite Only

### May 26-28: Cali Roots Music Festival

MusiCares is hosting a hearing clinic during Cali Roots Music Festival in Monterey, Calif. Eligible professionals will be fitted for free, custom ear plugs during the hearing clinic. 

Additionally, MusiCares will be providing Naloxone training and distribution.

All services are open to artists and crew only, while supplies last. 

**DATE:** May 26-28\
**TIME:** 2:00PM - 5:00PM PT

### Support Groups

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, MusiCares is launching a brand new Emotional Health Support Group for Songwriters and Composers on May 1. Join your peers every Monday at 1PM PT / 4PM ET in discussing the unique challenges that face songwriters and composers in today's music industry landscape. Attendees have the option to attend anonymously. 

MusiCares offers 11 free weekly support and addiction recovery support groups, including groups for the women's music community, Black music community, and LGBTQIA+ communities. These music community groups are open to anyone interested in participating. 

Support groups are a safe and secure place to sort through a variety of wellness issues or concerns. Each group is led by a licensed professional, and additional assistance is available if needed. 

**DATE:** Weekly, Ongoing\
**TIME:** Weekly, Ongoing\
**REGISTRATION:** [Learn more and contact a group facilitator here.](https://www.musicares.org/get-help/addiction-recovery)

What's Happening At MusiCares: May 2023

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Here's What's Happening At MusiCares In April 2022

Staff Spotlight: Communications Manager Kate Ferber Details Her Journey From Musician To Helping Music People In Need

As a part of our new staff spotlight series, we highlight Communications Manager Kate Ferber, whose mission is to make the entire music community aware of the life-saving work MusiCares does year-round.

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Kate Ferber has been part of the MusiCares' team for more than three years — first as part of the Development team, and now as part of the Marketing team. As Communications Manager, she plays an integral role in shaping and elevating MusiCares' brand image and reputation.

With personal ties to the importance of wellness and music prior to her career at MusiCares, Kate was immediately inspired to get involved after first hearing about the organization. Now, she’s making it her mission to spread awareness of MusiCares' work across the entire music community.

Below, learn more about Kate's road to MusiCares, and her incredible work towards furthering the MusiCares mission.

**What does your job entail?**

I'm Communications Manager at MusiCares! I focus on our messaging and storytelling, oversee email communications and marketing, write some of our editorial articles, and work with our marketing team to promote our mission. 

**What led you to a career in marketing &amp; communications at MusiCares?**

Before MusiCares, I had a full-time freelance career in both the music and wellness worlds for 15 years. I wrote, performed and produced a solo show; starred in three productions/tours of a musical created by John Mellencamp, Steven King, and T Bone Burnette; sang backup for Lorde and opened for Shawn Colvin; and released singles and albums of original music.

Between tours and teaching music lessons in New York, I was also leading centered movement and meditation classes focused on spiritual and physical health as a Registered Yoga Instructor. Upon my move to Topanga Canyon, California four years ago, the transition began from hustling freelancer to a calmer, simpler lifestyle. 

After hearing about MusiCares for the first time, from a retired rock drummer who said "MusiCares saved my life," I knew I had to be involved, and submitted my first application to the Recording Academy. I held temporary positions across the company and have found a home at MusiCares, where my passions for music and my music community, wellness, storytelling, and communications collide. 

I started out on the fundraising team, and transitioned to my role as Communications Manager in December, 2022. I still play my original music, collaborate with artists, and practice yoga in my free time.

**What inspires you the most about working at MusiCares within marketing &amp; communications?**

When I was a full-time music professional, MusiCares never came across my radar. Not once. A few times in my 20s, I 100% could have used the support and resources. Now it is my mission to make sure my community knows all about MusiCares so they feel that a career in music is more safe and sustainable.

**Do you have any advice for individuals just starting out their career in marketing &amp; communications?**

Writing = Rewriting. Never settle for a first draft, and learn to love a good edit! 

Also, keep a relationship journal and do your best to remember names and how you meet people. Building and maintaining your relationships is key.

**What keeps you motivated at work?**

Our amazing Health and Human Services team often share testimonials from clients about how MusiCares helped them. They often include the phrase "MusiCares saved my life," and it moves me to tears every time. 

**What are you most proud of in the last year at MusiCares?**

I'm proud of each and every one of my coworkers for their incredible efforts day in and day out. MusiCares' staff members are truly the most incredible people. Check out the "About" tab on our website to see all of their names. I'm honored to work with them and am looking forward to continuing to expand MusiCares' reach to all corners of the industry. 

The stories we tell in our social media posts, editorials, emails, and during our events continuously inspire thousands of people to get involved, donate or even to reach out if they need help. That's why I'm most proud to be on this team.

[MusiCares Executive Director Laura Segura On What Keeps Her Inspired &amp; Why The Organization Is "Stronger Than Ever"](https://www.musicares.org/news/laura-segura-executive-director-interview-billboard-women-in-music-2023-honoree-international-womens-day)

Get To Know Communications Manager Kate Ferber

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Here's What's Happening At MusiCares This Month: April 2023

Most of MusiCares’ April programming is centered around Financial Literacy Month, with a special series on finding affordable housing in New York City. Take a look at all of the programs here.

Body Text 1 - What's Going On At MusiCares April 2023

Every month, MusiCares offers a variety of programs, support groups, and health clinics to music people in need. This April, MusiCares is honoring Financial Literacy Month with a number of resources dedicated to financial wellness and the unique struggles of the music community.

Programming kicks off on April 11 with "How to Manage Credit and Debt," a virtual conversation in collaboration with Life's Jam in honor of Financial Literacy Month. MusiCares is also partnering with the Entertainment Community Fund on a series highlighting how to find affordable housing in New York City. 

Take a look at the full event list below to see what MusiCares has coming up this month. Be sure to check back here throughout the month for additional programs and updates!

### April 11: Life's Jam: How to Manage Credit and Debt

Join Rachael Bronstein of Life's Jam to learn more about organizing debt, staying on track, myths vs. facts around credit scores, building credit, and how feelings about money contribute to spending behaviors. 

**DATE:** April 11\
**TIME:** 1:00PM PT | 4:00PM ET\
**REGISTRATION:** [Register to attend here.](https://grammy.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_5PIScraxTDqSmZxDZO_MRQ)

### April 12: Find Affordable Housing in New York City
*In Partnership With the Entertainment Community Fund*

Learn how to navigate the affordable housing landscape and take advantage of opportunities to apply.

Topics include finding and applying for affordable housing, eligibility requirements, paperwork organization, and documenting fluctuating income. 

**DATE:** April 12\
**TIME:** 5:00PM - 7:00PM ET\
**REGISTRATION:** [Register to attend here.](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/applying-for-affordable-housing-in-nyc-tickets-133139446669)

### April 14: Apartment Hunting 101: Strategies For Finding NYC Housing
*In Partnership With the Entertainment Community Fund*

Are you looking for a new place to live? Do you need to leave your current housing? Join us and learn how to navigate the current NYC housing market.

Topics include calculating your rent budget, the basics of leases and rental agreements, and resources to help you find different types of housing. 

**DATE:** April 14\
**TIME:** 10:00AM - 12:00PM ET\
**REGISTRATION:** [Register to attend here.](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/apartment-hunting-101-strategies-for-finding-housing-in-nyc-tickets-133134399573)

### April 18: How to Find Affordable Housing in NYC: NYC Housing Connect 2.0 Tutorial
*In Partnership With the Entertainment Community Fund*

NYC has launched a new website for applying for affordable housing lotteries and re-rentals. 

Topics include navigating the new system, changes to the process, compiling documents, and setting up a new profile. 

**DATE:** April 18\
**TIME:** 3:30PM - 5:00PM ET\
**REGISTRATION:** [Register to attend here.](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nyc-housing-connect-20-tutorial-tickets-111182020416)

### April 20: How to Find Affordable Senior Housing in NYC
*In Partnership With the Entertainment Community Fund*

Learn how to navigate housing opportunities for older adults in NYC including senior specific programs. General tips on securing affordable housing for all entertainment professionals will also be discussed.

Topics include the application process, assessing your income, eligibility criteria, and preparing documents. 

**DATE:** April 20\
**TIME:** 3:30PM - 5:00PM ET\
**REGISTRATION:** [Register to attend here.](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/affordable-housing-for-seniors-in-nyc-tickets-50078954501)

### April 28-29: FoCoMX Music Festival

MusiCares is hosting a hearing clinic during FoCoMX Music Festival in Fort Collins, Colorado. Eligible professionals will be fitted for free, custom ear plugs during the hearing clinic. 

Additionally, MusiCares will be providing Naloxone training and distribution. 

All services are open to artists and crew only, while supplies last. 

**DATE:** April 28-29\
**TIME:** 2:00PM - 11:00PM MT

### Support Groups

MusiCares offers 10 free weekly support and addiction recovery support groups, including groups for the women's music community, Black music community, and LGBTQIA+ communities. These music community groups are open to anyone interested in participating. 

Support groups are a safe and secure place to sort through a variety of wellness issues or concerns. Each group is led by a licensed professional, and additional assistance is available if needed. 

**DATE:** Weekly, Ongoing\
**TIME:** Weekly, Ongoing\
**REGISTRATION:[Learn more and contact a group facilitator here.](https://www.musicares.org/get-help/addiction-recovery)**

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