# 10 Underrated Motown Albums Everyone Should Hear

# 10 Underrated Motown Albums Everyone Should Hear

When people think of Motown, they usually think of the biggest names and biggest hits. Albums like What's Going On, Songs in the Key of Life, and Where Did Our Love Go often dominate conversations—and rightfully so. But Motown's legendary catalog runs much deeper than its greatest-selling records.

Over the years, the label released hundreds of albums that never received the recognition they deserved. Some were overshadowed by changing musical trends, while others were simply released at the wrong time. Today, many of these hidden gems are finally getting the appreciation they always deserved.

Here are ten underrated Motown albums every music fan should hear.

1. High Energy – (1976)

Often overlooked because it came after left the group, High Energy proved The Supremes still had plenty to offer.

Featuring , , and , the album embraced the growing disco movement while keeping the group's signature harmonies intact.

Tracks like "I'm Gonna Let My Heart Do the Walking" and the title track remain favorites among longtime fans. Today, many consider it one of the strongest post-Diana Ross Supremes albums.

2. The Boss – (1979)

While The Boss featured a successful title song, the album itself often gets overlooked.

Produced by the legendary songwriting team of and , it blended soul, disco, and sophisticated pop into one polished collection.

Songs like "No One Gets the Prize" and "It's My House" deserve far more attention than they usually receive.

3. Perfect Angel – (1974)

Many people know Minnie Riperton only for "Lovin' You." That's unfortunate because the entire album is filled with incredible musicianship and beautiful songwriting.

Produced by , the project showcases Riperton's remarkable vocal range and emotional delivery.

It's a timeless soul album that rewards listeners from beginning to end.

4. Floy Joy – (1972)

This album marked a new era for The Supremes after major lineup changes.

Produced by , Floy Joy delivered a softer, smoother sound than many fans expected.

Although it wasn't a commercial blockbuster, it remains one of the group's most charming and overlooked releases.

5. In Full Bloom – (1977)

Although better known for "Car Wash," Rose Royce created one of the finest soul albums of the late 1970s.

Lead singer delivered emotional performances throughout the record, especially on "Wishing on a Star."

The album combines lush orchestration with unforgettable melodies.

6. Sky High! – (1973)

Overshadowed by the group's earlier success, Sky High! contains energetic performances and excellent production.

By this point, the Jackson 5 were beginning to mature musically while still delivering the infectious pop and soul fans loved.

It's a reminder that not every great album produced multiple chart-topping singles.

7. A Song for You – (1975)

This album deserves much more recognition than it usually receives.

The Temptations successfully blended soul, funk, and contemporary R&B while continuing to evolve with changing musical trends.

Their harmonies remain as impressive as ever, making this one of the group's strongest mid-1970s releases.

8. Touch Me in the Morning – (1973)

Most listeners know the title track, but the full album deserves attention.

Ross delivers elegant ballads, soulful performances, and polished production throughout the record.

It highlights her versatility beyond the radio hits.

9. Blackberry Jam – (1974)

This forgotten Motown release has quietly become a favorite among collectors.

The trio blended gospel, soul, funk, and pop into a refreshing sound that still feels vibrant today.

It's proof that Motown's talent extended well beyond its biggest stars.

10. The Return of the Magnificent Seven – & (1971)

Collaborative albums don't always work, but this one is genuinely entertaining.

The chemistry between the two legendary groups creates exciting performances full of energy, personality, and classic Motown charm.

It's an enjoyable listen that deserves another look from modern audiences.

Why These Albums Matter

One of Motown's greatest strengths was its willingness to evolve. The label embraced soul, pop, funk, psychedelic music, disco, and adult contemporary without losing its signature quality.

Unfortunately, many excellent albums were overshadowed by blockbuster releases or changing trends in popular music. Today, streaming services and expanded reissues have made it easier than ever to rediscover these forgotten classics.

Listening beyond the biggest hits reveals just how deep Motown's catalog truly is. These albums showcase incredible songwriting, outstanding vocal performances, and production that still sounds fresh decades later.

Final Thoughts

Motown's story isn't just about chart-topping singles—it's also about the albums that quietly influenced generations of musicians and delighted devoted fans.

Whether you're discovering these records for the first time or revisiting them after many years, each offers something special. From the disco sparkle of High Energy to the soulful beauty of Perfect Angel and the polished sophistication of The Boss, these albums deserve a place in every music lover's collection.

Sometimes the greatest treasures aren't the albums everyone already knows—they're the ones waiting patiently to be rediscovered.