At 81, Diana Ross has finally admitted what fans and critics alike have long speculated about.
Born on March 26, 1944, in Detroit, Michigan, Ross grew up in the Brewster-Douglas housing projects, the second of six children.
Despite her challenging environment, she was surrounded by music.
Her mother, a school teacher, and her father, a former boxer and factory worker, instilled in her a love for gospel, jazz, and blues.
By her teenage years, Ross’s vocal talent was undeniable. In 1959, at the age of 15, she joined a group called The Primes with Mary Wilson, Florence Ballard, and Betty McGlown. This group evolved into The Supremes, leading to their rise to stardom.
Initially struggling to find success, they broke through in 1964 with “Where Did Our Love Go,” followed by hits like “Baby Love” and “Stop! In the Name of Love.” Ross’s distinctive voice and stage presence made The Supremes one of Motown’s most successful acts and a significant influence on pop culture.
In 1970, Ross left The Supremes to embark on a solo career, a move that came with immense pressure. Her debut solo album, Diana Ross, included hits like “Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand)” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” the latter becoming a defining song in her career. Ross’s versatility shone through as she ventured into acting with her role in the 1972 film Lady Sings the Blues, earning an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Billie Holiday.
Ross’s solo career flourished with hits across various genres. Songs like “Touch Me in the Morning,” “Love Hangover,” and “Upside Down” showcased her adaptability and wide-ranging appeal. Her 1980 album, Diana, produced by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards, featured hits like “I’m Coming Out” and reaffirmed her status in the music industry.
The album’s fresh sound and innovative production techniques resonated widely, achieving multiplatinum status.
Ross’s talents extended beyond music into acting. She starred in films like Mahogany (1975) and The Wiz (1978), with the latter gaining a cult following. Her role in the 1994 television movie Out of Darkness earned her a Golden Globe nomination, showcasing her dramatic range.
Ross’s personal life has been as dynamic as her career. She was married twice and has five children. Her first marriage to music executive Robert Ellis Silberstein produced two daughters, Tracee Ellis Ross and Chudney Ross, both of whom have found success in entertainment. She also raised her eldest daughter, Rhonda Ross Kendrick, from her relationship with Motown founder Berry Gordy.
Her second marriage to Norwegian shipping magnate Arne Naess Jr. produced two sons, Ross Arne and Evan Ross, both of whom followed in her footsteps into the entertainment industry.
Diana Ross’s journey from the projects of Detroit to international stardom is a testament to her talent, determination, and groundbreaking influence. She broke barriers for African-American women in entertainment, leaving an indelible mark on music and pop culture. Her ability to adapt and reinvent herself has ensured her legacy endures across generations.
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