Summary (tl;dr)

Janie Bradford, a pivotal Motown songwriter and executive known for co-writing the label's first hit "Money (That's What I Want)," has passed away at the age of 87 following an extended illness.

Essential Background

Janie Bradford joined Motown in 1958 as a secretary and quickly transitioned to become the label's first female songwriter. She notably co-wrote "Money (That's What I Want)" with Berry Gordy, which became Motown's breakthrough hit and was later covered by iconic bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. Over her more than two-decade tenure, she contributed to numerous other successful recordings for artists such as Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and The Supremes, and eventually became the Director of Writer Relations for Motown's publishing company.

The Full Story

Janie Bradford died on August 21, 2026, at the age of 87, after an extended illness. Her family confirmed that she passed away at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California. Her death was announced by the R&B Hall of Fame. Bradford was widely recognized as an unsung architect of the early Motown sound, playing a crucial role in shaping the label's distinctive musical identity from its very inception.

Why It Matters

The passing of Janie Bradford signifies the loss of a foundational figure in American popular music. Her profound contributions as a songwriter helped define the iconic Motown sound, influencing countless artists and generations of listeners through enduring hits. Beyond her songwriting legacy, Bradford also established the Heroes and Legends (HAL) Scholarship Fund, demonstrating her commitment to nurturing new talent in the performing arts while honoring industry veterans.

Geographic Location

• Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California, United States (location of passing)