It's really hard to believe Motown Records is celebrating 50 years in the business--I would have thought the label was at least 80 by now. Seriously, have you seen the guys they trot out for those Motown/doo-wop specials on PBS? Let's just say I wouldn't be surprised if their 50th Anniversary comp was called Golden Hits and Advance Directives. This Friday, Saturday and Sunday, The Contours featuring Sylvester Potts will help the Dallas Symphony Orchestra celebrate this milestone with a set of Motown hits, including songs by Stevie Wonder, the Temptations and the Four Tops, as well as the Contours' own classic, "Do You Love Me" (though anyone expecting to hear Billy Gordon's iconic lead vocal should know he peaced out of this world a decade ago). The concert kicks off the DSO's 2009-2010 Pops Series, which will also feature LeAnn Rimes (eh), Michael Bolton (barf), Wynton Marsalis (better) and Elvis Costello (now we're talkin'). A mixed bag for sure, but at least it starts off strong. Showtimes are 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday at the Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St. Tickets are $28 to $111. Visit dallassymphony.com.
Fri., Aug. 28; Sat., Aug. 29; Sun., Aug. 30, 2009