Diana Ross is an iconic figure in the music industry, known for her powerful voice, magnetic stage presence, and groundbreaking contributions to the world of entertainment. Born Diane Ernestine Earle Ross on March 26, 1944, in Detroit, Michigan, Ross’s journey to fame began in the heart of Motown, where she rose to stardom as the lead singer of The Supremes before embarking on a successful solo career. Over the decades, she has become a symbol of resilience, talent, and influence, leaving an indelible mark on music, film, and culture. This article delves into the life of Diana Ross, exploring her rise to fame, her significant achievements, and the lasting legacy she continues to build.
Early Life and Beginnings
Diana Ross was born into a family that valued hard work and perseverance. Her mother, Ernestine, was a schoolteacher, and her father, Fred Ross, was a former soldier who returned from World War II to work as a civilian. Despite facing challenges, including a modest upbringing in the Brewster-Douglass housing projects in Detroit, Ross’s parents instilled in her the importance of education and ambition.
From a young age, Ross showed an interest in the arts, particularly in music and fashion. She attended Cass Technical High School in Detroit, where she studied fashion design, initially aspiring to become a fashion designer. During her teenage years, Ross worked at Hudson’s Department Store, becoming the first African American employee to work at the store’s cosmetics counter—a significant achievement during a time of racial segregation.
The Supremes: Rise to Fame
While still in high school, Diana Ross joined a local singing group called The Primettes, which included Mary Wilson, Florence Ballard, and Betty McGlown. The group performed at local talent shows and quickly gained popularity. In 1960, they auditioned for Motown Records, the legendary record label founded by Berry Gordy. Although their initial audition was unsuccessful, Gordy saw potential in the group and signed them to the label in 1961. Shortly thereafter, the group changed its name to The Supremes.
The Supremes struggled initially, but their fortunes changed dramatically in 1964 with the release of “Where Did Our Love Go?” The song became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This success marked the beginning of a remarkable run for The Supremes, who went on to achieve 12 number-one singles on the Billboard Hot 100, including classics like “Baby Love,” “Stop! In the Name of Love,” and “You Can’t Hurry Love.”
Diana Ross’s distinct voice and charismatic stage presence quickly made her the face of The Supremes. By the late 1960s, she was the focal point of the group, and they were renamed Diana Ross & The Supremes. Under her leadership, the group became one of the best-selling girl groups of all time, rivaling the Beatles in popularity and establishing Motown as a dominant force in the music industry.
Transition to a Solo Career
In 1970, Diana Ross made the bold decision to leave The Supremes and pursue a solo career. Her departure marked the end of an era, but it also signaled the beginning of a new chapter in her life. Ross’s first solo single, “Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand),” was a moderate success, but it was her second single, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” that catapulted her to solo stardom. The song, a powerful anthem of perseverance and love, became her first solo number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned her a Grammy Award nomination.
Ross’s solo career flourished throughout the 1970s, with a string of successful albums and singles that showcased her versatility as an artist. Hits like “Touch Me in the Morning,” “Love Hangover,” and “Theme from Mahogany (Do You Know Where You’re Going To)” solidified her status as a solo superstar. Her ability to cross over into various musical genres, including pop, R&B, and disco, broadened her appeal and helped her maintain a strong presence on the charts.
Film Career and Acting Success
Diana Ross’s talents extended beyond music, and in 1972, she made her film debut in Lady Sings the Blues, a biographical film about the legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday. Ross’s portrayal of Holiday was met with critical acclaim, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, making her one of the few African American women to receive such recognition at the time. The film was a box office success, and Ross’s performance was widely praised for its emotional depth and authenticity.
Following the success of Lady Sings the Blues, Ross starred in several other films, including Mahogany (1975) and The Wiz (1978). In Mahogany, Ross played an aspiring fashion designer, a role that resonated with her own early aspirations. The film’s theme song, “Do You Know Where You’re Going To,” became another hit for Ross. In The Wiz, a modern retelling of The Wizard of Oz, Ross played the lead role of Dorothy, alongside Michael Jackson as the Scarecrow. Although the film received mixed reviews, it has since become a cult classic, and Ross’s performance is remembered as a highlight of her acting career.
1980s and Continued Success
The 1980s marked a period of continued success and reinvention for Diana Ross. In 1980, she released the album Diana, produced by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards of Chic. The album featured the hit singles “Upside Down” and “I’m Coming Out,” both of which became anthems of empowerment and self-expression. Diana became one of Ross’s most successful albums, reaching number two on the Billboard 200 and solidifying her status as a pop icon.
Ross’s influence extended beyond music, as she became a fashion and cultural icon during this period. Her glamorous style, characterized by her signature big hair and elegant gowns, made her a trendsetter and a symbol of sophistication. Ross also became the first African American woman to be featured on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine, further cementing her place in popular culture.
In addition to her musical achievements, Ross continued to receive accolades for her contributions to the entertainment industry. In 1983, she was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and in 1986, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Supremes.
Legacy and Influence
Diana Ross’s influence on music and culture is immeasurable. As one of the most successful female artists of all time, she paved the way for future generations of female performers, particularly African American women, to achieve mainstream success. Her ability to transcend genres and her dedication to her craft have earned her a place among the greatest entertainers in history.
In the 1990s, Ross continued to perform and record music, releasing albums such as The Force Behind the Power (1991) and Take Me Higher (1995). She also ventured into television, starring in the acclaimed TV movie Out of Darkness (1994), for which she received a Golden Globe nomination. Ross’s contributions to the music industry were further recognized in 1993 when she was named the “Most Successful Female Music Artist in History” by the Guinness Book of World Records, a title earned by her record-breaking sales and chart performances.
The new millennium brought continued recognition for Ross’s career. In 2005, she was honored with the BET Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 2007, she received the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors, celebrating her contributions to American culture through the performing arts. Ross also received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012, acknowledging her enduring impact on the music industry.
Personal Life and Challenges
While Diana Ross’s professional life has been filled with success, her personal life has seen its share of challenges. Ross has been married twice and has five children. Her first marriage to music executive Robert Ellis Silberstein in 1971 produced two daughters, Tracee Ellis Ross and Chudney Ross. Tracee Ellis Ross, in particular, has followed in her mother’s footsteps, becoming a successful actress known for her role in the TV show Black-ish.
Ross’s second marriage to Norwegian shipping magnate Arne Næss Jr. in 1985 produced two sons, Ross Arne and Evan Olav. The couple divorced in 2000, and Næss tragically passed away in a mountain climbing accident in 2004. Despite these personal hardships, Ross has remained a devoted mother and has maintained close relationships with her children.
Continuing to Inspire
Diana Ross’s influence continues to be felt across the entertainment industry. Her music remains timeless, and her impact on fashion, culture, and the arts is still celebrated today. Ross continues to perform, and her live shows are a testament to her enduring talent and charisma. She has inspired countless artists, including Beyoncé, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston, who have all cited Ross as a major influence on their careers.
As a pioneer for African American women in the entertainment industry, Diana Ross broke barriers and challenged norms, paving the way for future generations of artists. Her legacy is one of empowerment, resilience, and artistic excellence.
Conclusion
Diana Ross is more than just a music icon; she is a cultural phenomenon whose contributions to the world of entertainment have left an indelible mark. From her early days with The Supremes to her successful solo career and ventures into acting, Ross has consistently demonstrated her versatility, talent, and ability to connect with audiences around the world. Her influence on music, fashion, and culture is unparalleled, and her legacy continues to inspire and empower.
As she continues to perform and engage with her fans, Diana Ross remains a symbol of excellence and a testament to the power of artistry. Her story is one of triumph, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to her craft—a story that will continue to resonate for generations to come.
