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Songwriter Janie Bradford Dies at 87

8/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. songwriter Janie Bradford died at age 87 on August 21, 2026.
She co-wrote “Money (That’s What I Want)” and “Too Busy Thinking About My Baby,” hits that reached No. 23 and No. 4.
In the 1990s she launched the Heroes and Legends Awards, providing scholarships for performing-arts students.
She entered the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame in June 2026.

History

Historical Context

In 1960, Berry Gordy’s Anna Records released Barrett Strong’s “Money (That’s What I Want)”, co-written by Janie Bradford, earning Motown its first national hit and selling about 1.5 million copies. The success jump-started Motown’s hit factory, and Bradford’s 2026 Women Songwriters Hall of Fame induction and her foundation’s 150 scholarships connect that breakthrough to today’s emerging artists.

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Story summary

U.S. songwriter Janie Bradford died at age 87 on August 21, 2026.
She co-wrote “Money (That’s What I Want)” and “Too Busy Thinking About My Baby,” hits that reached No. 23 and No. 4.
In the 1990s she launched the Heroes and Legends Awards, providing scholarships for performing-arts students.
She entered the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame in June 2026.

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