Reeves still belting out 'Dancing in the Street'
Today's Morning Edition music is from Martha Reeves and the Vandellas with "Dancing in the Street."
It was chosen today in honor of Reeves' 73rd birthday. The song was released 50 years ago this month.
Co-writers Marvin Gaye and Mickey Stevenson said they were inspired one summer while watching kids in Detroit playing in the spray from open fire hydrants.
They thought the kids appeared to be dancing in the street. Some militant groups later appropriated the song and used it to encourage street demonstrations. Reeves is headed to Europe next week for a tour marking the 50th anniversary.
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