The Supremes - by Mark Ribowsky (Paperback)

About the Book

In a sprawling parable of ambition, sex, and betrayal, "The Supremes" delivers the definitive story of the most successful female vocal group of all time.

Book Synopsis

The Supremes is a sprawling tale of unforgettable music, cutthroat ambition, and heartbreaking betrayal. Mark Ribowsky explodes Dreamgirl fantasies by taking the reader behind the closed doors of Motown to witness the rise of group leader Diana Ross, the creation of timeless classics like "Where Did Our Love Go?," and the dramatic power struggles within Detroit's fabled music factory. Drawing on firsthand, intimate recollections from knowledgeable sources such as the Temptations's Otis Williams and other Motown contemporaries--many never before interviewed--The Supremes is "a comprehensive look at the tumultuous relationships within the Supremes as well as among others at the Motown label" (Library Journal).

Review Quotes

Music Media Monthly, 5/10/10
"If you cherish the memory of songs like 'Stop! In the Name of Love, ' 'Baby Love' and 'You Keep Me Hangin' On, ' you'll want to read all about the back story and intrigues that made The Supremes the best of Motown's R&B and Soul groups of its day...A great read."

Barnstable Patriot, 6/4/10
"[A] saga of supremely talented, yet sordid, lives. This is a dishy, dirty look at Berry Gordy and the trio of ghetto girls who he made stars...A tale as harrowing as it is nasty, this roller-coaster ride will finally tell you exactly where the love went."

The TMR Zoo, 6/15/10
"A much needed 440 page book on one of the greatest 'girl groups' of all time...Ribowsky--very wisely--keeps the history front and center...What the author has done here is no small achievement. He's managed to put a solid document together of this incredible hit machine, and bring the humanity of each individual involved to center stage...Ribowsky handles all of the bad and the good with objectivity and diplomacy...Highly recommended." Neworld Review, August 2010

About the Author

Mark Ribowsky is the author of He's a Rebel: Phil Spector, Rock & Roll's Legendary Producer; Don't Look Back; and other books on music, sports, and popular culture. He lives in New York.