Let me tell you about Berry Gordy, the man who revolutionized the music industry. This legendary figure didn't just create hits; he built an empire. Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown, has had a career filled with success and collaboration with some of the world's most iconic artists. He's the mastermind behind timeless tracks like "I Want You Back" and "ABC" by The Jackson 5. A Grammy nominee, Berry has been married three times over his six-decade career, and each chapter of his life is as fascinating as the next.
Berry's journey began in the early '50s when he pursued a career in boxing. But life had other plans for him when he was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Once he returned home, he married his first wife, Thelma Coleman, in 1953. Together, they had three beautiful children: Hazel Joy Gordy, Berry Gordy IV, and Terry James Gordy. However, like many marriages, theirs came to an end in 1959, but their legacy lives on through their kids.
Berry's rise to fame in the music world started in 1957 when he met the soulful Jackie Wilson. She recorded his song, "Reet Petite," marking the beginning of a fruitful partnership. Shortly afterward, Berry met the incredible Smokey Robinson, who encouraged him to establish his own record label. Little did he know, this decision would change his life forever.
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As Berry once shared with Billboard in June 2017, his early aspirations were simple. "When I started out, all I wanted to do was write some songs, make some money, and get some girls—not necessarily in that order," he said. "Most of my early songs came from my own experiences. For instance, when I was broke and needed cash, I wrote a song called 'Money (That’s What I Want).' It was all about real-life situations." His authenticity resonated with audiences worldwide.
Berry's second marriage was to Raynoma Singleton in 1960. Together, they had a son, Kerry Gordy. Although their marriage ended in 1964, Berry's legacy continued to grow. He married Grace Eaton in 1990, and though their union lasted only three years, it added another layer to his storied life. Beyond his marriages, Berry fathered several children from other relationships, including actress Rhonda Ross with Diana Ross, daughter Sherry Gordy with Jeana Jackson, son Kennedy William Gordy with Margaret Norton, and Stefan Kendal Gordy (better known as Redfoo) with producer Nancy Leiviska.
Berry’s First Marriage: Who Was Thelma Coleman?
Berry’s first marriage to Thelma Coleman remains somewhat mysterious. At the time, Berry was just starting to build his music empire, assembling a team and creating the iconic Motown label. While much of their personal life remains private, their union produced three remarkable children who carry on the Gordy name with pride.
Who Was Berry Gordy’s Second Ex-Wife, Raynoma Singleton?
Raynoma Singleton was not only a producer and songwriter but also a key figure in Berry's life. She auditioned in front of him in the late '50s, impressing him with her musical talents. Berry brought her into his circle to help organize a group of background vocalists. They worked together under the Rayber Music Writing Company and eventually fell in love. Raynoma was already a mother to a son, Cliff Liles, from her previous marriage. After their divorce, Raynoma went on to marry Eddie Singleton, with whom she had two more children, William Edward Singleton Jr. and Rya Singleton. Raynoma passed away in November 2016 after a courageous battle with brain cancer.
Who Was Berry Gordy’s Third Ex-Wife, Grace Eaton?
Berry's marriage to Grace Eaton lasted three years, though they did not have any children together. While they kept most details of their relationship private, they did attend several high-profile events during their time together. Their 1990 Santa Barbara wedding was attended by several superstar guests, including the late Michael Jackson, a close friend of Berry's. Grace remains an important chapter in Berry's life story.
