The Supremes Co-Founder Mary Wilson Has Died At 76

The music industry is mourning a major loss. The co-founder of The Supremes, Mary Wilson, has reportedly passed away peacefully at age 76.

Mary Wilson Has Passed Away

Wilson was the longest-running member of the hugely influential group, which helped popularize Motown. Mary Wilson’s cause of death hasn’t been released, although her publicist has released a statement following her passing.

“Mary Wilson, a founding member of “The Supremes” has died at the age of 76, her publicist told CNN. Wilson “passed away suddenly this evening,” according to a statement from her longtime friend and publicist, Jay Schwartz. (CNN)

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Diana Ross Remembers Mary Wilson

Wilson was joined by Diana Ross, Florence Ballard, and Betty McGlown in the original lineup of The Supremes, who were Motown’s most successful group in the 1960s, reaching 12 No. 1 hits. Ross took to her Twitter to remember Wilson with a heartfelt message.

“I just woke up to this news , my condolences to you Mary’s family ,I am reminded that each day is a gift ,I have so many wonderful memories of our time together “The Supremes ” will live on ,in our hearts ?”

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Mary Wilson’s Detroit Roots

Wilson is most known for her Motown roots. Her rise to shine came from singing to a record contract in the early 1960’s.

Like many Motown artists, Wilson, Ross and Florence Ballard had grown up in Detroit and were still in their teens when they were signed in 1961 by Berry Gordy to his young record company. Within three years, the Supremes had their first No. 1 hit, “Where Did Our Love Go?” By the end of the decade, they were Motown’s greatest commercial success and embodiment of the label’s polished pop-soul music and elegant appearance, with their beehive hairdos and heavy eye makeup, in sequin gowns or in slacks and strapless tops. (AP News)

Beyoncé Sings To Diana Ross W/ Diddy By Her Side

Grammy-winning singer Beyoncé pulled through in a big way for Diana Ross. New footage has surfaced of Queen Bey singing “Happy Birthday” to the music icon with Bad Boy Records CEO Diddy by her side recently at a private celebration.

Music icon Diddy previously put some respect on Diana Ross’ name. The Bad Boy Records CEO celebrated the soulful singer’s birthday back in 2019 with footage of his daughters gracing the stage alongside her.