[1] Although Motown is best remembered as an African American label due to specializing in soul and R&B music, it did sign a number of white acts, to mixed success.

[1] Berry Gordy intended to change this statistic by launching a Motown subsidiary that would specifically focus on white rock artists.

[1] The acts Motown signed for the new subsidiary, including Rare Earth, for whom the new label was named, explored blues-oriented and progressive rock styles.

[3] When Rare Earth was still performing under the name the Sunliners, "Get Ready" was a regular — and popular — part of the band's live set, and was subsequently recorded for their 1968 Verve debut album, Dreams/Answers, but after signing with Motown, executive Barney Ales wanted Rare Earth to re-record it for their debut on Motown's rock subsidiary.

[7] Pioneering hip hop journalist Steven Hager wrote that Rare Earth's recording "was a favorite in the Bronx because it lasted over twenty-one minutes, which was long enough for the serious dancers to get into the beat.