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The songs in the Motown catalog have long been workout playlist favorites—owing to their emphasis on brisk rhythms and crisp snares. In this playlist, we’ve tried to survey a few of the hits for which the label’s best known along with a few latter day picks to round things out.
The list kicks of with a timeless track from the Jackson 5 and closes out with an equally indelible tune from The Commodores. In between, you’ll find a string of ’60s and ’70s gems—including propulsive anthems from Stevie Wonder and The Supremes. Elsewhere, you’ll find ’80s and ’90s hits that move beyond the label’s classic sound—expanding into funk from Rick James and new jack swing from Boyz II Men.
No matter which era you prefer and regardless of where you start, the infectious melodies and punchy beats are consistent throughout. To that end, you can tour one of the most distinctive catalogs in music history on the next run through your neighborhood. When you’re ready to move, you can find 10 Motown highlights below.
Jackson 5 – I Want You Back – 98 BPM
The Four Tops – I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch) – 127 BPM
DeBarge – Rhythm of the Night – 115 BPM
Stevie Wonder – Uptight (Everything’s Alright) – 137 BPM
The Supremes – You Keep Me Hangin’ On – 128 BPM
Rick James – Super Freak – 133 BPM
The Temptations – Get Ready – 136 BPM
Thelma Houston – Don’t Leave Me This Way – 119 BPM
Boyz II Men – Motownphilly – 114 BPM
The Commodores – Brick House – 108 BPM
To find more workout songs, folks can check out the free database at Run Hundred. Visitors can browse the song selections there by genre, tempo, and era to find the music that best fits with their particular workout routine.