The Women Behind The Motowners

Recognition of women in the entertainment industry is understated but women are making their mark on all levels. The women behind the scenes of The Motowners, Inc. are Co-Owner and Vice President Revella Hadley and Lawanda Joseph, Business and Band Manager. They are the beat at the heart of The Motowners’ production team. Their multiple roles to support the production extend beyond titles. These women are integral to the popularity and success of Motown Tribute Production.

The Motowners Ultimate Motown Tribute Show was created by Revella Hadley with her husband, Derrick Hadley, President and Producer of The Motowners, Inc. Their catering and entertainment service Black Swan Special Events is the parent company formed in 2005. They have progressed to a full show production, featuring the Motowners Men and Ladies, singing classic Motown songs with a Funk Brothers vibe-like band. The Motowners tour as the main act on numerous stages and theaters around the United States. Revella Hadley is a graduate of Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship, Leadership North Broward, and she is certified in Meeting and Events Management from Florida Atlantic University.

“Our shows are produced at performing art theaters and big stages. The production mirrors the Motown module to maintain the authenticity expected and appreciated by our audiences. Our work ethic is foremost and our team presents a professional production. As a former singer of the group, I understand the mindset of the singers and I am there for them on and off the stage. I think about the women of Motown and in the industry, who paved the way for women entertainers, musicians, writers and producers in a male-dominated industry. I’m proud to model and honor their accomplishments, and I do my part to support women in the entertainment industry,” said Revella Hadley.

Lawanda Joseph is a native of Detroit, Michigan, where she has fond memories of the Motown Reviews. With over 20 years of legal, business, public relations and marketing experience, she brings extensive experience in business management, entertainment, and productions projects, nationally and internationally. Lawanda obtained the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) Contract Advisor certification to further her knowledge of sports management, negotiations, and marketing.

“Behind the scenes is where the magic begins. From the office to the stage, there is an ongoing plan for negotiation, public relations, social media, and company development. This is where my professional expertise is valuable. Our plan for The Motowners is consistent with the owners’ desire to move beyond statewide shows and become a national and international production company. They are well on their way and my intention is to take them to a higher level, one day at a time, until we achieve our goals and beyond.

My thoughts are often beyond the present. I’m constantly thinking and taking action to get them where they are destined to be as a major tribute production show. The road to success and perfection is a long

road, but we tweak it as we go along. I take my role seriously in managing and presenting The Motowners in the best light from the business matters, behind the scenes and to their appearance on stage,” said Lawanda Joseph.

On the road to nationwide success, The Motowners have performed on the same stage with national artists before high-profile individuals like First Lady Michelle Obama. The Motowners shows received positive reviews for their consistent delivery of authentic Motown sounds, dazzling costumes, and decorum that contribute to their sold-out shows.

“The Motowners’ shows are nostalgic, classic, and upbeat. They inspire sing-along and dancing. Once you see a Motowners Show, you can’t wait to see them again! They bring back memories of times past and leave you with a happy feeling,” said Joseph with a proud smile.

While the owners pursued a premier Motown Tribute Show, it was imperative to engage the most dynamic and powerful vocalists with a syncopated, tight rhythm section that captures the grooves of Motown artists, including The Temptations, The Four Tops, Diana Ross & The Supremes, Martha Reeves and The Vandellas, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, The Marvelettes, and Stevie Wonder. The search resulted in the right combination of five male singers, three female singers, and five musicians.

The Motown Sound is the most significant musical accomplishment of African Americans in the 20th Century. The Motowners shows transport you to a time of amazing hit songs and soulful classics, when Motown changed the American music scene. It changed our society and captivated diverse audiences, nationally. During the illustrious Motown years, that sound dominated the airwaves with hundreds of hit songs by superstars. audiences to enjoy and reminisce about the beauty of the music. The tribute group recaptures the feelings associated with these songs.

As the women behind the scenes of The Motowners, Revella Hadley and Lawanda Joseph have not reached their milestone. They are optimistic about their recognition as businesswomen in the entertainment industry, who contribute to the progress of the Motowners. Meanwhile, they keep their eyes on the prize and know that it will happen in due time with God’s Grace. As The Temptations said, “Get Ready – Here We Come!”

The Motowners are on the move as a show and an entertainment production company with a professional team on the road to success!

For more information regarding The Motowners Motown Tribute Show or bookings, please contact: Lawanda Joseph, Business Manager 305-525-0338 lawandajoseph9@gmail.com www.themotowners.com www.facebook.com/Motowners www.instagram.com/themotowners youtu.be/OlZWM-YEnkY

south florida since 2007

www.wijsf.org