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The Story of the Supremes

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Factual: Arts, Culture & the Media

Music: Soul & Reggae: Soul

12/12/2012

BBC Radio 2 - The Story of the Supremes

Radio 2 marks the 50th anniversary of the classic girl group's debut set Meet the Supremes

Highlighting the importance and influence of the classic girl group, Radio 2 marks the 50th anniversary of their debut album Meet the Supremes, which was released 9 December 1962.

Highlighting the importance and influence of The Supremes, this documentary marks the 50th anniversary of their debut album Meet the Supremes, which was released on 9 December 1962.

The Supremes were founded as The Primettes in Detroit, Michigan in 1959 and their repertoire included doo-wop, pop, soul, Broadway show tunes, psychedelic soul, and disco. They worked extremely hard to achieve success that took a long time to happen. 

Even with the assistance of some of the most successful songwriters and producers Motown had to offer - including Berry Gordy, Smokey Robinson and Holland-Dozier-Holland -The Supremes were referred to at Motown HQ as the "no-hit Supremes" for several years until they achieve their first Number One hit in 1964. They went on to become the most commercially successful of Motown's acts and are America's most successful vocal group with 12 number one singles on the Billboard Hot 100. 

This programme tells the story of The Supremes early years, how Diana Ross, Mary Wilson, Florence Ballard and Betty McGlown - four teenage girls from suburban Detroit - were determined to become singing stars. After recording their first single, Betty left the group to be replaced by Barbara Martin. In the spring of 1962 Barbara also left the group and The Supremes continued as a trio, releasing their debut album Meet The Supremes in December 1962. 

Featuring interviews with Motown founders Berry Gordy and Smokey Robinson; songwriters Lamont Dozier and Janie Bradford; members Diana Ross and Mary Wilson; as well as archive of the late Florence Ballard; this programme 
highlights the driving ambition and raw talent that made The Supremes one of the most influential groups in pop history.

Amazing music. Played by an amazing line up.

Radio 2: Amazing music. Played by an amazing line-up. The home of great music, entertainment and documentaries

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