Songwriting honor goes to Motown trio: Holland-Dozier-Holland helped develop classic sound ( Video )

ROMAIN BLANQUART/Detroit Free Press
From left, Eddie Holland, Brian Holland and Lamont Dozier.

Holland–Dozier–Holland — the Detroit-bred songwriting and production team made up of Lamont Dozier and brothers Brian Holland and Edward Holland Jr. — will receive this year’s prestigious Johnny Mercer Award at the 2009 Songwriters Hall of Fame Awards dinner, slated for June 18 at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel.



“Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier and Eddie Holland’s massive stream of classic songs changed the face of popular music in a way that has endured, creating a style that is highly influential and relevant today,” the Songwriters Hall of Fame Chairman and CEO Hal David said in a statement.

Holland-Dozier-Holland was often credited with developing the Motown Sound, writing songs for the Supremes, the Four Tops and Marvin Gaye, among other Motown artists.

In the exclusive video below, you can see the trio reunite for the first time in nearly 40 years to discuss old music, including the classic Supremes tune “You Keep Me Hangin’ On.” The clip is part of the Free Press’ ongoing video series celebrating Motown’s 50th anniversary.