[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 7 (Tuesday, January 11, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E25]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     IN RECOGNITION OF WANDA YOUNG

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RASHIDA TLAIB

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 11, 2022

  Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the late and 
legendary, Wanda Young, former singer of the renowned Motown 
Marvelettes and resident of Inkster in Michigan's 13th Congressional 
District.
  Ms. Young was born in Eloise, Michigan and was raised in Inkster. It 
was there that she made her mark on Motown, our community's culture, 
and music history. Ms. Young was asked to join a local singing group, 
comprised of Inkster High School students and alumni, when one of its 
members had to drop out. They were immediately impressed by her vocal 
range. The group, now known as the Marvelettes, had previously 
auditioned with Barry Gordy of Motown Records and was quickly signed to 
the Tamla record label, later known as Motown Records. They earned 
Motown one of its biggest hits with their best-known song, ``Please, 
Mr. Postman.''
  Wanda Young sang lead on many of the Marvelettes' recordings, 
including hit songs ``Don't Mess Around with Bill'' and ``I'll Keep 
Holding On.'' Ms. Young was an integral part of the Motown music scene 
and defining the sound of the 1960s. She has been a paragon to 
countless women and African-American performers inspired by her 
example.
  Please join me in recognizing Wanda Young's contributions to our 
country, music and Michigan's 13th District Strong as we honor her 
legacy and her impact on history at home and across the globe.

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