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Yesterday — 19 May 2025Main stream

The Metro: The history and mystery of Detroit’s Fortune Records

19 May 2025 at 15:36

It’s no secret that the city of Detroit has a rich music history. But when most people think of the city’s most famous labels, Motown is usually the first — or only— one that comes to mind. 

But there are many other lesser known labels that contributed to the city’s thriving music scene and deserve more recognition. 

Fortune Records is definitely among them, and yet somehow the influential mom and pop label has largely faded into obscurity.

Fortune Records moved to 3942 Third Avenue in Detroit's Cass Corridor in 1956.
Fortune Records moved to 3942 Third Avenue in Detroit’s Cass Corridor in 1956.

Detroit author and music historian Michael Hurtt aims to change that with his book “Mind Over Matter,” which he co-wrote with his longtime friend Billy Miller.

The book offers a comprehensive history of Fortune and the many “myths and mysteries” associated with the label.

Hurtt spoke with WDET’s Jenny Sherman and Natalie Albrecht about the label for the latest episode of CuriosiD, and he joined The Metro on Thursday to share more.

Use the media player above to hear the full conversation.

Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on-demand.

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The post The Metro: The history and mystery of Detroit’s Fortune Records appeared first on WDET 101.9 FM.

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