By Bob Olhsson (68.32.101.228 - 68.32.101.228) on Friday, August 30, 2002 - 06:49 pm:

This is probably old news to most of the regulars but I just sat here for more than an hour listening to this interview in utter amazement.

http://bluepower.com/show.jsp?id=12

By Ralph (209.240.198.62 - 209.240.198.62) on Friday, August 30, 2002 - 08:21 pm:

Bob,
Unfortunately my computer doesn't provide me with the capability to listen to this interview. However, if it involves Harry Balk I'm sure it's captivating.

By Larry (63.209.85.31 - 63.209.85.31) on Friday, August 30, 2002 - 11:05 pm:

Bob,
I heard it all. Thanks for sharing. Definitely captivating stuff. Early 80's as they mention Marvin Gaye still alive. Great site too.

Ralph, your studio is mentioned as well. I'm off to a gig gents backing Little Kenny White out here in La-La Land.

By Bob Olhsson (68.32.101.228 - 68.32.101.228) on Saturday, August 31, 2002 - 11:22 am:

It's a mini-boigraphy of Harry's early years that begins with amateur shows in his movie theaters and ends with putting out "What's Going On" over the objections of Billy Jean and Norman. John plays many of the records which still sound killer here.

By Ralph (209.240.198.62 - 209.240.198.62) on Saturday, August 31, 2002 - 03:25 pm:

Regarding " What's Going On "...
Harry was pretty much fighting the entire store to get that album released. Berry was against it at first as was the Sales Department. This is the classical example of how the Old School record guys operated, and there was none better than Harry Balk. They had the strength of conviction on particular records and were willng to risk everything to put that record on the market. Without that spirit that personfied Harry Balk I guarantee you that that particular album would have been buried. We all owe Harry a big thank you on that one.

By Larry (63.212.134.153 - 63.212.134.153) on Saturday, August 31, 2002 - 04:40 pm:

Yes Ralph. The interview made it clear the song was turned down by everyone. Harry mentioned at first they edited out Marvin's "Scat" as it was "old sounding", but, Harry pressed. Also, initially, they only printed 40-50,000 copies based on Marvin's past sales, and Harry was dumbfounded. The album was on backorder for months, eventually selling millions.

IMO, What's Going On is to Motown (and Marvin) what Sgt. Peppers was to the Beatles, and Kind of Blue was to Miles. All swan songs, all must haves.

Ralph, you articulate my sentiments so well.

By Ralph (209.240.198.62 - 209.240.198.62) on Saturday, August 31, 2002 - 06:24 pm:

Thanks Larry,
I make no secret of my admiration for Harry Balk. He has been an extremely close and loyal friend through the years and I have learned much from him. I wish everyone on this forum could know the man as I do. He is truly unique.

By Marilyn (65.148.88.194 - 65.148.88.194) on Monday, September 02, 2002 - 06:30 pm:

I definitely second that!Harry is the greatest!!!
Marilyn

By Ed Wolfrum (165.121.214.77 - 165.121.214.77) on Monday, September 02, 2002 - 08:31 pm:

Harry Balk to quote Artie Field is a one of a kind, great, "RECORD MAN." He has an wonderful gift in choosing and producing great records. Harry has made a mark on American music and in particular the Detroit music makers. God Bless you Harry, you are a gift to the industry!!!

Ed

By bmiller360@aol.com (64.164.175.85 - 64.164.175.85) on Wednesday, September 04, 2002 - 02:07 pm:

I just want to comment on the gift this guy Harry gave to Motown, and pop music in general. He's one the the unusual, "stick your neck out" kind of guys, with a great talent for really listening and guiding a project. Not a lot of that around anymore, but we can always hope........
love to this terrific friend and colleague!
bruce miller
(love to Patti)