Netflix Sets November Premiere for Motown-Themed Children’s Series

Netflix has set a Nov. 20 date for its new Motown-themed animated series Motown Magic, the streaming service said Friday.

The series, inspired by music of Motown, follows a wide-eyed eight-year old who uses his magic paintbrush to bring the street art decorating of his city to life, according to Netflix. The series will feature 52 newly-recorded versions of songs made famous by such iconic artists as Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, The Jackson 5, Lionel Richie, the Supremes and the Temptations.

The series will be executive produced by creator Josh Wakely, with Smokey Robinson serving as executive music producer. 

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.