Johnnie Mae Matthews was a significant figure in the 1960s Detroit music scene, often recognized as the "Godmother of Detroit Soul". She was a singer, songwriter, and record producer, known for her raw and emotive vocal style that blended rhythm and blues with soul. Matthews is remembered for founding the Northern Recording Company, one of the first black-owned music labels in Detroit, and for her mentorship of several future Motown artists. Her influential works include "The Headshrinker" and "Cut Me Loose", songs that exemplified her pioneering influence on the Detroit music scene.