Martha Reeves

Martha Reeves (born July 18, 1941) is an American singer best known as the lead vocalist of Martha and the Vandellas, one of Motown’s defining girl groups. Raised in Eufaula, Alabama, and later based in Detroit, she began working at Motown as a secretary before moving into recording. With the Vandellas she scored major hits including “(Love Is Like a) Heat Wave,” “Quicksand,” and “Dancing in the Street,” earning a lasting place in 1960s soul and pop. Reeves later pursued a solo career and continued performing for decades. She also served on the Detroit City Council (2005–2009).