Maxine Powell | Motown style guide, 98

Maxine Powell, responsible for developing the charm and and style of Motown Records' artists during the Detroit label's 1960s heyday, died Monday at a hospital in Southfield, Mich.

She didn't sing or write songs, but those associated with Motown say Ms. Powell was as essential as any performer or producer.

She directed the label's Artists Development Department, also known as "Motown's Finishing School." She guided many, including Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, the Jackson Five, and the Supremes.

At a celebration for her less than two months ago, Motown founder Berry Gordy paid tribute via video, joking that he still recalled many of Ms. Powell's sayings, such as "Do not confuse me with your parents - they're stuck with you. I'm not." - AP