Bonnie Pointer recorded two remakes of Motown hits for her 1978 self-titled solo debut album -- released by Motown (natch): today's pick plus "Heaven Must Have Sent You." "When I'm Gone" was written by Smokey Robinson, and twice he produced to be released as a single -- first Mary Wells and again for fellow Motown artist Brenda Holloway. According to Wikipedia, the song was one of the last records Wells recorded while at Motown. Fresh from the success of the million-seller "My Guy" and with her contract expiring soon, Wells decided to terminate her deal with Motown complaining that Berry Gordy had been refusing to give her the royalties. She argued that her Motown contract was invalid because she'd signed with the company at the age of 17 and was released. Had Wells not exited Motown, "When I'm Gone" would have been her next release. Instead, Gordy persuaded Holloway to give it a shot, which became a No. 25 pop hit and No. 12 R&B. Both are good. But I think Bonnie did Smokey proudest.
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