What Are the Names of the Original Supremes?

The Supremes were formed in Detroit, Michigan in 1959 and quickly became one of the most successful girl groups of all time. Their unique blend of soul, pop, and R&B music helped to define the Motown sound and paved the way for future generations of female artists. The original lineup of the Supremes consisted of three talented singers who would go on to achieve great success both as a group and as solo artists.

Diana Ross was the lead singer of the Supremes and is perhaps the most well-known member of the group. Born in Detroit in 1944, Ross began singing at a young age and was discovered by Motown founder Berry Gordy Jr. in the early 1960s. Ross quickly became the face of the Supremes and helped to propel the group to international fame with hits like "Baby Love," "Stop! In the Name of Love," and "You Can't Hurry Love." After leaving the Supremes in 1970, Ross went on to have a successful solo career and is considered one of the most influential female singers of all time.

Mary Wilson was a founding member of the Supremes and remained with the group throughout its many lineup changes. Born in Greenville, Mississippi in 1944, Wilson moved to Detroit as a child and began singing in local talent shows. She met Diana Ross and Florence Ballard in high school, and the three girls formed the Primettes, which would later become the Supremes. Wilson was known for her powerful vocals and stage presence, and she contributed to many of the group's biggest hits, including "Where Did Our Love Go" and "Love Child." After the Supremes disbanded in 1977, Wilson continued to perform and record music as a solo artist.

Florence Ballard was another founding member of the Supremes and was known for her soulful voice and dynamic stage presence. Born in Detroit in 1943, Ballard began singing in church and was discovered by Motown in the early 1960s. She contributed to many of the Supremes' early hits, including "When the Lovelight Starts Shining Through His Eyes" and "Come See About Me." However, Ballard struggled with personal and professional issues and was eventually replaced by Cindy Birdsong in 1967. She went on to record a solo album and perform with other groups before her untimely death in 1976.

The Supremes were one of the most successful girl groups of all time, and their original lineup consisted of three talented singers who helped to define the Motown sound. Diana Ross, Mary Wilson, and Florence Ballard each brought their own unique talents and personalities to the group, and their contributions to music will be remembered for generations to come.