Hot Wax Records: Soul on Fire from Motown’s Rebels

Hot Wax Records didn’t just release music—it poured gasoline on soul and lit a match. Founded in 1968 by Holland–Dozier–Holland, the superstar songwriting trio behind dozens of Motown hits, Hot Wax was born out of rebellion. After breaking away from Motown, they built their own label and proved they didn’t need Berry Gordy to make magic—they were the magic.

The Hot Wax sound was bold, funky and fearless—soul music with street attitude and pop instincts. With groups like Honey Cone, Chairmen of the Board, 100 Proof (Aged in Soul) and Laura Lee, Hot Wax filled the charts while keeping its edge. “Want Ads” by Honey Cone became a #1 hit in 1971, and General Johnson’s voice with Chairmen of the Board is still one of soul’s most recognizable sounds.

Hot Wax also had style—its colorful label design and playful song titles gave it personality. It was soul music with personality, drama and groove—Motown’s rebel cousin with dirt under its nails and rhythm in its blood.