List two people who made an important contribution to Motown music and describe what they did?

1. Berry Gordy Jr. was the founder of Motown Records and one of the most influential figures in the history of popular music. He was a pioneer in the development of the Motown Sound, which blended elements of R&B, gospel, and pop. Gordy also played a key role in the development of the careers of many Motown artists, including Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, and Marvin Gaye.

2. Smokey Robinson was an American singer, songwriter, and record producer who was one of the founding members of the Motown group The Miracles. Robinson is one of the most successful songwriters in the history of popular music, having written over 1,000 songs, many of which became hits for Motown artists. He was also a highly respected record producer and his work with The Miracles and other Motown artists helped define the Motown Sound.