Smokey Robinson and Halle Bailey to Host ‘A Motown Christmas’ Special Honoring Motown’s Legacy

A Motown Holiday Celebration Bridging Generations
Universal City, Calif. — Legendary Motown icon Smokey Robinson and rising star Halle Bailey are joining forces to host A Motown Christmas, a festive television special honoring the iconic record label that revolutionized the music industry. The show will spotlight Motown’s enduring influence on American culture through performances that blend its storied past with modern-day talent.
What to Expect From “A Motown Christmas”
This holiday special, airing Wednesday night on NBC and available for streaming the next day on Peacock, promises an electrifying lineup of performances. Viewers can expect solo acts, duets, and medleys from a star-studded cast, including Robinson, Bailey, Gladys Knight, Andra Day, The Temptations, Jamie Foxx, and Ashanti. Additional acts include BeBe Winans, JoJo, Martha Reeves and The Vandellas, Jordin Sparks, Machine Gun Kelly, October London, and Pentatonix.

Robinson and Bailey Reflect on Their Holiday Traditions
Smokey Robinson and Motown founder Berry Gordy once celebrated Christmas with elaborate gift exchanges. However, their tradition has since evolved into heartfelt catch-ups, whether by phone or in person.
For Bailey, Christmas memories are intertwined with Motown’s music. During holidays in South Carolina, her grandfather would play Motown classics throughout the house. Bailey fondly recalls hearing Robinson’s “Tracks of My Tears” and performing The Supremes’ “Baby Love” with her sister Chloe during a talent show, complete with sequined dresses and signature Supremes choreography.
“Motown music feels like the soundtrack to Christmas,” Bailey shared. “It’s always been a part of the magic when opening presents or spending time with family.”
Over 25 Motown Classics on the Setlist
The special will feature beloved hits like ABC, Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, Dancing in the Streets, I Heard It Through the Grapevine, My Girl, Reach Out (I’ll Be There), and Superstition.
Robinson will perform his classics Tears of a Clown, Being With You, and Tracks of My Tears. Meanwhile, Bailey will honor Diana Ross and The Supremes with a medley of Stop (In the Name of Love), Baby Love, and You Keep Me Hanging On.
“When you grow up listening to this music, it becomes a part of you,” Bailey remarked. “It was a privilege to bring these songs to life.”
The performances will be backed by a live 11-piece band led by Emmy Award-winning musical director Rickey Minor, adding a dynamic touch to the show.
Motown’s Legacy in American Music
Founded by Berry Gordy, Motown Records provided a platform for Black musicians during a time when their voices were often excluded from mainstream radio. The label became a launching pad for global superstars, including Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Lionel Richie, and The Supremes.
Motown’s success is immortalized at the Motown Museum in Detroit, the birthplace of the label, where legends recorded their biggest hits before Motown relocated to California in 1972.
Motown’s Impact Through the Generations
At 84, Robinson praised the timelessness of Motown’s music, highlighting Bailey as proof of its cross-generational appeal.
“She wasn’t even born when Motown began, yet she knows the music and the artists,” Robinson said. “It’s incredible to see how kids today, and even future generations, continue to discover and connect with Motown.”
Bailey added, “Motown is universal. The music tells stories that speak to your heart, making it timeless and unforgettable.”
Key Takeaways
- A Motown Christmas airs on NBC Wednesday night and streams on Peacock the next day.
- The lineup features legendary and contemporary stars performing over 25 Motown classics.
- The special highlights Motown’s influence on American culture and music history.
Be sure to tune in and experience the joy, nostalgia, and magic of Motown this holiday season!
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