Arguably, Holland-Dozier-Holland penned the songs that crossed R&B into the pop charts during the '60s. Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight - all got their lift to stardom at Motown. I do not disrespect Motown. But Stax was based in Memphis, and throughout the '60s, it was a haven, a refuge where all artist were equal. Race did not matter when you walked through those doors. Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, The Staples Singers, Johnny Taylor... The sound was grittier, real, not the fantasy fluff of Motown.