Cornelius Grant, renowned Motown composer and guitarist for The Temptations, is preparing to share his extraordinary journey in an upcoming book that goes beyond the glitz and glamour of the Motown era. Unlike many narratives that focus on the salacious aspects of the music industry, Grant’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and cultural discovery—an odyssey that spans seven continents and chronicles his transition from boyhood to manhood. 
Cornelius Grant, born in Fairfield, Texas, possessed a natural curiosity about life and learning that shaped his journey as a musician. His talent and determination secured him a lasting place in Motown’s history, where his contributions would extend far beyond his years at Hitsville, leaving an enduring legacy in the world of music.
Raised on the wisdom of his mother and grandmother, Grant’s love for music was nurtured by their sacrifices. They worked tirelessly to buy him his first guitar, igniting a passion that would shape his future. Determined to master his craft, he learned to read music and compose, skills that eventually led him to the epicenter of American music—Motown, also known as Hitsville, U.S.A.
At Motown, Grant became integral to The Temptations’ success, contributing his musical genius to some of their most memorable hits. However, his book is not just about the legendary Motown sound but the journey—the lessons, the challenges, and the triumphs. He delves into what it means to be an African American artist traveling the world, experiencing different cultures, and seeing firsthand the global impact of Motown’s music.
Grant regales you with anecdotes that are told from his humorous perspective. He chose not to dwell on whether there was bickering and bantering within the Motown family. Despite all of the conflicts that might have gone on within the Motown family, the music remains the most iconic in the history of American music and will remain so forever. This is Grant’s story, not the end of an era of good music but the beginning of a music culture that influenced the rest of the world. The Motown influence can be heard loudly in Dubai, Patagonia, Argentina, and Africa.
Through his travels, Grant witnessed the universal language of music bridging cultural divides. While his experiences on the road brought him face to face with the realities of racial identity in foreign lands, they also offered him a unique perspective on the respect and admiration that Motown artists received worldwide.
His story is one of evolution—of a young man’s transformation through music, travel, and life experiences that shaped his worldview. It is a robust validation of the power of dedication, talent, and wisdom from those who believed in his dreams.
Cornelius Grant’s forthcoming book promises to be inspiring and it is an insightful read, offering a rare glimpse into the life of a musician whose contributions helped define an era. More than just a chronicle of Motown’s golden years, it is a reflection on the profound impact of music and culture across the globe.
Photo Credit by Cornelius Grant
