Early Motown songwriter Janie Bradford Hobbs dies in Los Angeles after illness at age 87

Early Motown songwriter Janie Bradford Hobbs, who contributed to classic hits like "Money (That's What I Want)" and "Too Busy Thinking About My Baby," passed away at the age of 87 following an extended illness in a Los Angeles hospital, according to her family. Born in Charleston, Missouri, she later relocated to Detroit and was discovered by Motown founder Berry Gordy, who met her through a mutual acquaintance, singer Jackie Wilson.

Bradford Hobbs began as a receptionist at Motown in 1958 and later became head of Writer Relations for Jobete, the company's publishing division. She co-wrote "Money (That's What I Want)," which became a hit for Barrett Strong and was later covered by The Beatles. She also penned songs for Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Martha & The Vandellas, and other artists.

Gordy praised Hobbs, calling her one of the original Motown family who believed in the dream before anyone knew what Motown would become.