Diana Ross and The Supremes
Diana Ross, born on March 26, 1944, in Detroit, Michigan, is an iconic American singer and actress, often referred to as the "Queen of Motown." She is best known as the lead singer of the influential vocal group The Supremes. Ross’s career began in the early 1960s, and she quickly established herself as a prominent figure in the music industry, contributing significantly to the Motown sound.
Ross's impact on music is immense; she has sold more than 100 million albums, both as a member of The Supremes and as a solo artist, which positions her as one of the most successful female entertainers of the 20th century . In 1967, when the group was rebranded as "Diana Ross and the Supremes," she became the focal point of the act, showcasing her vocal talent and stage presence.
Throughout her career, Ross has been celebrated not only for her powerful voice but also for her contributions to the arts and her activism. Her ability to connect with audiences and her influential style contributed to The Supremes' longstanding success in the music landscape.
The Supremes were formed in 1959 and originally comprised Diana Ross, Mary Wilson, and Florence Ballard. Initially known as "The Primettes," the group signed with Motown Records and soon became one of the label's flagship acts. Their music played a pivotal role in the popularization of the Motown sound, which blended soul, pop, and rhythm and blues.
The Supremes achieved remarkable success through the 1960s, producing numerous chart-topping hits, including "Where Did Our Love Go," "Baby Love," and "Stop! In the Name of Love." Their seamless harmonies and distinctive style captivated audiences, allowing them to become one of the best-selling girl groups in music history. Ross's leadership contributed significantly to this success, as she often took center stage with her charismatic performances.
However, internal dynamics within the group and changes in the music industry posed challenges over time. After Ross left the group in 1970 to pursue a solo career, The Supremes continued to perform with various lineup changes until their dissolution in the 1970s. Despite this, the legacy of The Supremes endures, influencing countless artists across generations.
In summary, Diana Ross and The Supremes represent a significant chapter in the history of American music, exemplifying the cultural shifts of their era and leaving a lasting impact that continues to resonate today. Their contributions to music and popular culture remain significant, with Ross celebrated both for her solo endeavors and as a member of one of the most iconic groups in music history.
Love Child
Written-By – D. Richards, F. Wilson, P. Sawyer, R. D. Taylor 2:55
A2 Keep An Eye
Written-By – N. Ashford, V. Simpson 2:59
A3 How Long Has That Evening Train Been Gone
Written-By – F. Wilson, P. Wilson 2:46
A4 Does Your Mama Know About Me
Written-By – T. Chong, T. Baird 2:52
A5 Honey Bee (Keep On Stinging Me)
Written-By – D. Dean, D. Richards, J. Bradford 2:20
A6 Some Things You Never Get Used To
Written-By – N. Ashford, V. Simpson 2:24
B1 He's My Sunny Boy
Written-By – William Robinson, Jr. 2:18
B2 You've Been So Wonderful To Me
Written-By – A. Story, A. Gaye, H. Gordy 2:31
B3 (Don't Break These) Chains Of Love
Written-By – G. Beauchamp, H. Fuqua, J. Bristol 2:23
B4 You Ain't Livin' Till You're Lovin'
Written-By – N. Ashford, V. Simpson 2:41
B5 I'll Set You Free
Written-By – B. Gordy Jr., G. Fuqua, I. Hunter, R. Tener 2:37
B6 Can't Shake It Loose
Written-By – G. Clinton, J. Jackson, R. M. McCoy, S. Barnes 2:07
Label: Motown – MS 670
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1968
Genre: R&B Soul, Pop
Style: Sixties Soul, Motown
The Love Child album by Diana Ross & The Supremes (1968) marked a significant shift, showcasing a more personal, grittier sound with distinct lyrics, moving away from the classic Holland-Dozier-Holland pop formula, and features the iconic #1 title track alongside other strong cuts like "Some Things You Never Get Used To," offering fans a memorable, emotionally charged experience and a great entry point into their extensive catalog. Reviewers praise its emotional depth, strong songwriting, unique arrangements (like the locomotive piano intro on the title track), and Diana Ross's captivating, energetic vocals, making it a highly recommended, classic album.
It was the first Supremes album without Holland-Dozier-Holland, introducing a different, more mature, and personal sound with deeper lyrical themes. "Love Child" became a massive hit, praised for its distinctive instrumental arrangement, compelling story, and Ross's soulful delivery, says this Stereogum article and this Cryptic Rock article.
Beyond the title track, listeners highlight gems like "Some Things You Never Get Used To," "He's My Sunny Boy," and "How Long Has That Evening Train Been Gone," as noted on Rate Your Music. Diana Ross's clear, emotionally charged vocals are a highlight, driving the songs with energy. The album features inventive arrangements and strong musicality from The Funk Brothers, foreshadowing later disco trends with its dynamic instrumentation.
Highly recommended as a pivotal album, offering both nostalgia and a fresh listen, particularly the high-quality vinyl reissues. Considered one of the Supremes' best releases due to its consistent quality and few filler tracks, making it an excellent starting point for new fans.
Where Did Our Love Go
A2 Run, Run, Run 2:15
A3 Baby Love 2:34
A4 When The Lovelight Starts Shining Through His Eyes 2:34
A5 Come See About Me 2:39
A6 Long Gone Lover
Written-By – Wm. Robinson 2:20
B1 I'm Giving You Your Freedom 2:37
B2 A Breath Taking Guy
Written-By – Wm. Robinson 2:20
B3 He Means The World To Me
Written-By – Norman Whitfield 1:52
B4 Standing At The Crossroads Of Love 2:27
B5 Your Kiss Of Fire
Written-By – Gordy, Fuqua 2:45
B6 Ask Any Girl 3:01
Written by Holland-Dozier-Holland (tracks: A1 to A5, B1, B4, B6)
Label: Motown – M 621
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1964
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Sixties Soul, Motown
Where Did Our Love Go, The Supremes' 1964 album, is celebrated as a pivotal pop/Motown release, marking their breakthrough with hits like the title track, "Baby Love," and "When the Lovelight Starts Shining Through His Eyes," showcasing Diana Ross's emerging lead vocals amidst lush, danceable, yet often heartbreak-themed H-D-H (Holland-Dozier-Holland) magic, even if it's seen more as a singles collection than a cohesive album. It's lauded for its immersive sound, cultural impact, and catchy melodies that defined girl-group pop, despite some critics finding it repetitive or a bit shallow lyrically compared to later Motown.
An essential album that captured a cultural shift, announcing The Supremes as global stars and a powerful force in pop music, comparable to The Beatles' impact.
The album explores relatable heartbreak and relationship woes ("loneliness has got the best of me") through sweet melodies, creating a compelling contrast. Features the signature Motown "sweet stomping soul" with dramatic strings, tambourines, and irresistible beats, creating a feel-good, danceable vibe.
Primarily a collection of hit singles and their B-sides, leading some to view it as a singles-driven vehicle rather than a deep album, with some filler tracks. Diana Ross's distinctive voice shines, though some critics note her prominence sometimes overshadows Mary Wilson and Florence Ballard.
Considered a "minor masterpiece" for its consistency and ability to blend pop accessibility with genuine musical artistry, setting the stage for Motown's dominance.
In essence, Where Did Our Love Go is praised as a landmark record, foundational to pop history, delivering iconic hits and an undeniable groove, even if it's a product of its time's singles-focused industry.