There’s nothing quite like the music created by the artists of Motown Records in the 1960s, a decade during which the beloved label churned out over 100 chart-topping hits from the likes of Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, The Temptations, and others. More than 60 years later, the songs of Motown continue to captivate music lovers of all ages and walks of life.

Hall has fond childhood memories of watching her parents dance to these timeless tracks on vinyl in their family home. As she prepares to perform these songs alongside Sarasota Orchestra on May 5 and 6 at the Orioles’ Ed Smith Stadium, the sheer impact and lasting effects of Motown have become even clearer for her.

“It’s all still fresh, and it all still feels good,” Hall said. “The themes are incredibly universal, so everybody gets it. No matter what age you are, what race you are, what region you’re from, the music really communicates your feelings.”

“Motown Records had really high standards,” said vocalist Michael Lynche, who will share the stage with Hall and Chester Gregory. “Before the release of every single, Berry Gordy would gather everyone at the studio for a listening session and ask, ‘Would you spend your last five dollars on a sandwich or this record?’ If you choose to listen to something over eating, it’s gotta be pretty special.”

American Idol fans may remember Lynche, also known as “Big Mike” from season nine of the show when he wowed millions of viewers with his charisma and soul-soaked voice. The New York City-based artist traces his roots back to St. Petersburg, Florida, where he grew up in a musical family and got his start singing at his local church.

“This show is right down the road from where I grew up in St. Pete,” he shared. “I’ve been over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge a million times as a kid. I’m looking forward to a beautiful homecoming!” 

Hall and Lynche encourage audience members to prepare for a dance party, with smash hits like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “I Heard It through The Grapevine,” “My Girl” and more. Hall particularly enjoys singing Diana Ross’ “Touch Me in the Morning,” a song that she says she wouldn’t have initially chosen.

“It’s such a beautiful challenge, and I’ve gotten to the point where I love, love, love to sing that song every single night,” she says. “Also, Stevie Wonder is my legend and icon. I get to sing ‘Superstition,’ which is cool because most of the time, the boys get to sing that one.”

One of the highlights of the show for Lynche, although not a Motown song, is James Brown’s “A Man’s World.”

To learn more and purchase tickets to Sarasota Orchestra’s Outdoor Pops concert, Dancing in the Street: Music of Motown, visit the Box Office at the Orioles’ Ed Smith Stadium, call (941) 893-6312, or visit Orioles.com/Arts. Program and featured artists subject to change.