What do hitmakers Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, the Jackson 5 have in common? Well, they were all birthed from the iconic record label Motown of course. Today, the beloved Detroit label that Berry Gordy put on the map celebrates its 50th anniversary. Gordy founded the musical empire after securing an $800 loan from his family on January 12, 1959. Since, he and Motown have influenced modern music moguls like Russell Simmons and Sean Combs. While the celebration will officially kick off today, activities are scheduled to continue through 2009. A two-hour Motown documentary, produced by Berry Gordy, Jr., and his associate Suzanne de Passe, is being aimed for a fall theatrical release, according to the Detroit Free Press.—BB