Diana Ross
“Twelve number ones in formation, then a solo name that kept the sequins moving.”
In 1964 the Supremes released 'Where Did Our Love Go,' their first Billboard number one. Powered by Holland-Dozier-Holland, it convinced Berry Gordy of the group's crossover potential, igniting an unmatched run of hits and establishing Ross as Motown's signature star.
Detroit and the Supremes
Raised in Detroit, Ross joined the group that became the Supremes and signed to Motown in 1961. Once 'Where Did Our Love Go' topped the charts in 1964, the trio became one of the best-selling acts of the decade.
Going Solo
Ross left the Supremes in 1970 and launched a hugely successful solo career, beginning with the chart-topping 'Ain't No Mountain High Enough.' She also moved into film, earning acclaim for 'Lady Sings the Blues.'
Enduring Icon
Across disco and pop eras she scored more number-one hits and remained a glamorous global star. She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the Supremes and later honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Career Timeline
- 1944Born in Detroit. Brewster-Douglass.
- 1964Where Did Our Love Go. The run begins.
- 1970Leaves the Supremes.
- 1972Lady Sings the Blues. Oscar nomination.
- 1983Central Park, twice — rain, then the make-good.
Biggest Hits
- Her mother named her Diane, but a birth-certificate typo read 'Diana,' the name she adopted in 1965.
- Her debut acting role as Billie Holiday in 'Lady Sings the Blues' earned an Academy Award nomination.
The Moment You Remember
Three young women in shimmering gowns lift their palms in unison on a television soundstage, and "Stop! In the Name of Love" becomes both a song and a gesture an entire generation would never forget.
Portrait: Raph_PH · CC BY 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons