This exhibit explores the enduring legacy and influence of Motown Records’ premier recording artists. Curated by the GRAMMY Museum®, the exhibit offers a unique look at the life and career of one of the most successful American singing groups of the ’60s through rare artifacts from the private collection of founding member Mary Wilson.
The exhibit features rare photographs from the Wilson’s personal collection, concert posters, tour books, fan memorabilia, and an assortment of performance gowns:
- “Primette Pristine” gowns worn in 1961, one of the earliest sets purchased by the Supremes when they were still known as the Primettes
- “White De Mink” outfit worn on ABC’s “The Hollywood Palace in 1966
- “Turquoise Freeze” dresses worn during a 1967 appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show
- “Red Hot” gown worn by Mary Wilson on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1970 for the debut of the new Supremes lineup featuring Cindy Birdsong and Jean Terrell
Founded as the Primettes in Detroit, the Supremes became Motown’s most consistent hitmakers and the most popular female group of the ’60s, bridging the worlds of pop and soul with their polished singing style. Featuring original members Mary Wilson, Diana Ross, and Florence Ballard, much of their success was a result of the tailor-made songs for them by Motown’s in-house writing and production team comprising Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier, and Eddie Holland.
At the height of the British Invasion in June 1965, the group set a record for the most consecutive No. 1 hits by an American group when “Back in My Arms Again,” “Baby Love,” “Come See About Me,” “Stop! In The Name Of Love,” and “Where Did Our Love Go?” rose to the top of the Billboard singles chart. By 1967 the trio had officially amended their name to Diana Ross and the Supremes, an acknowledgment of lead singer Ross’ rising star. That same year, Florence Ballard left the group and was replaced by Cindy Birdsong.
Ross subsequently left the Supremes to launch a successful career as a solo recording artist and actress. She was replaced by Jean Terrell, and the Supremes’ hitmaking streak continued with such songs as “Up the Ladder to the Roof” and “Stoned Love.” The trio continued to perform and record into the ’70s, with founding member Mary Wilson keeping the name and the music alive. Later members included Scherrie Payne (who replaced Jean Terrell) and Susaye Greene and Lynda Laurence (who took Cindy Birdsong’s place). The Supremes’ final performance was at London’s Drury Lane on June 12, 1977, at which point Wilson disbanded the group and retired the name. Not only did the Supremes come to epitomize the Motown sound, they earned a place in music history as performers whose popularity in the ’60s was second only to the Beatles.
“The Mary Wilson ‘Supreme’ gown collection is a dream come true for me,” said Wilson. “This collection is a gift that I give to all of those who have ever loved music and glamour. As you look at all of these wonderful treasures, please be reminded that three little black girls’ dared to dream, and made their dreams come true. Thank you, Motown, and the thousands of fans all over the world.”
“We are thrilled to be hosting this event with Ms. Wilson and opening this incredible exhibit,” stated Woody Guthrie Center Executive Director Deana McCloud. “The Supremes set the standard as strong black female performers during the height of the Civil Rights Movement with their amazing harmonies and glamor. It’s an honor to host this exhibit in Tulsa as we share the power that music has to change the world.”
