27 - Reading Reflection No 3

For this reflection, I chose to read about Berry Gordy. This time, I wanted to study an entrepreneur that I knew almost nothing about. What surprised me the most was that Gordy formed Temla Records, later Motown Records, with only an $800 loan from his family. This is encouraging for anyone who thinks they don’t have the financial means to reach for their goals. What I admire most about Berry Gordy was his ambition and his courage to quit his steady job and follow his dreams at the age of 27.  What I least admire about Gordy are some of his policies regarding fair payment and credit to employees and artists. Many felt taken advantage of, with some big names, like Gladys Knight and the Temptations, leaving the record label.

The competencies that defines Berry Gordy is his hard work and dedication. As the founder of Motown, he was a very engaged leader and participated in every aspect of the label. He called weekly meetings and maintained a very high standard for what the record label represents.

One part of the reading that was confusing was his explanation and reasoning for selling Motown Records. The community around the label didn’t support this decision and were upset.

If I could ask Berry Gordy two questions, they would be:

·       “What was the deciding factor for the sale of Motown Records?

·       “How did your goals and aspirations change once the sale was completed?

From the autobiography, I was mostly fascinated and curious about why he sold the record label, while keeping the film and television part of the company. His passion for music is undeniable and I wonder what internal and external forces led to his decision. I also want to know how Gordy was affected by this major transition in his company.

Berry Gordy would believe that hard work is the number one tool in an entrepreneur’s toolbox. He started with very little and by putting in the time and resources into his goals constantly, he was able to succeed.