Frank Wilson (1940-2012)

Frank Wilson, noted Motown producer and songwriter, passed away yesterday after a long bout with pancreatic cancer.

After the departure of Holland-Dozier-Holland, Frank Wilson (with the noted exception of Norman Whitfield) became to go-to producer at Motown. Wilson co-wrote and produced hits for The Supremes (‘Up The Ladder To The Roof’, ‘Love Child’, I’m Gonna Make You Love Me, ‘Stoned Love’) The Four Tops (‘Still Water’), and Eddie Kendricks (‘Keep On Truckin’). Wilson also worked extensively with The Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, The Isley Brothers among others. Wilson also co-wrote ‘You Make Me So Very Happy’, for Brenda Holloway, which later became a huge hit for Blood, Sweats & Tears.

After leaving Motown in 1976, Wilson went produced and co-wrote hits for Lenny Williams, Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr, Lakeside, Freda Payne and most recently, John Legend. Wilson also authored several self-help books.

Frank Wilson was 71 years old.