Review

THE SUPREMES: THIS IS THE STORY – THE ‘70S ALBUMS VOL. 1 1970-1973: THE JEAN TERRELL

Given Diana Ross’s voracious hunger for stardom and the fact that Motown boss Berry Gordy showed a very personal, hands-on interest in developing her career meant that it was no real surprise when she quit The Supremes to pursue a solo path at the end of 1969. What Ross didn’t bank on, though, was that in 1970 the new-look Supremes rejuvenated by her replacement, Jean Terrell, would initially outsell her – in fact, the Terrell-fronted Supremes’ debut 45, “Up The Ladder To The Roof” achieved a Top 10 slot in the States while Ross’s first solo outing, “Reach Out And Touch (Somebody’s Hand)” struggled to make the Top 20. This fabulous, beautifully-packaged 3-CD box set features all five albums led by the soulful, gospel-tinged vocals of Jean Terrell as well as a slew of previously unissued cuts originally destined for an aborted LP called “Promises Kept.” All the significant post-Ross hits are present, of course, including “Stoned Love,” “Nathan Jones,” “Floy Joy” and the brilliant Stevie Wonder-helmed “Bad Weather.” Those who thought Diana Ross was The Supremes will have to think again.
Words Charles Waring