Quick Wiki
- Full Name Diana Ross
- Birth Date Mar 26, 1944
- Age 80 Years, 10 Months
- Birthplace Detroit, Michigan, U.S.
- Occupation Singer, actress
- Parents Ernestine and Fred Ross Sr.
- Spouses Robert Ellis Silberstein (m. 1971; div. 1977) Arne Næss Jr. (m. 1986; div. 2000)
Diana Ross | Biography
Diana Ross is a legendary singer and actress, known for her time with the Supremes and a successful solo career spanning over four decades.
Who is Diana Ross?
Diana Ross is a legendary American singer and actress, born on March 26, 1944, in Detroit, Michigan. She rose to fame as the lead singer of the iconic Motown group, The Supremes, which became one of the most successful female groups in music history during the 1960s. With a string of 12 No. 1 hits, including timeless classics like "You Can't Hurry Love," Ross and the Supremes shattered records and left an indelible mark on the music industry. In 1969, she embarked on a solo career that helped her continue to dominate the charts, showcasing her extraordinary vocal range and versatility.
Throughout her illustrious career that spans over four decades, Ross has not only achieved remarkable success in the music world but has also made significant strides in film. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in the biographical film "Lady Sings the Blues," and starred in other notable films such as "Mahogany" and "The Wiz." Despite facing personal challenges, including legal issues and family loss, Ross's resilience and dedication to her craft have solidified her legacy as one of the most influential entertainers in history.
Early Life and Education
Diana Ross was born on March 26, 1944, in Detroit, Michigan, into a family that fostered her early love for music. Growing up in a tight-knit household, she was encouraged to explore her artistic inclinations. Ross attended Cass Technical High School, where she majored in fashion design. However, her passion for music led her down a different path. While still a teenager, she began singing with friends, forming the girl group the Primettes. This early experience of collaboration and performance was foundational, setting the stage for her future endeavors in music.
During her years with the Primettes, which included future Supremes members Mary Wilson and Florence Ballard, Ross honed her vocal skills and developed stage presence. The combination of her talent and the vibrant music scene in Detroit dramatically influenced her career trajectory. In 1961, the group signed with Motown Records, and with Berry Gordy Jr.'s guidance, they transformed into the iconic Supremes. Ross's relentless ambition and early education in performing arts equipped her with the tools she needed to rise to superstardom, paving the way for a remarkable career that would span more than four decades.
Rise to Fame: The Supremes
Diana Ross began her musical journey as a teenager in Detroit, Michigan, where she formed a singing group called the Primettes with her friends Mary Wilson and Florence Ballard. After the departure of Barbara Martin, the group evolved into the iconic trio known as the Supremes. Their partnership with Motown Records, under the guidance of Berry Gordy Jr., led to a meteoric rise in the 1960s, marking them as one of the most successful acts in music history. With their smooth harmonies and glamorous image, the Supremes captivated audiences and redefined popular music, becoming symbols of the Motown sound.
In 1964, they released their first No. 1 hit, "Where Did Our Love Go?" This song was just the beginning of a remarkable streak that included four consecutive chart-toppers: "Baby Love," "Come See About Me," and "Stop! In the Name of Love." Ultimately, the Supremes achieved an unprecedented total of 12 No. 1 hits on the Billboard charts, solidifying their place in music history. Their success not only laid the groundwork for Diana Ross's solo career but also set the standard for future female vocal groups, influencing generations of artists across various genres.
Going Solo: Music and Movie Star
Diana Ross launched her solo career in 1969, swiftly becoming a musical powerhouse in her own right. Following her departure from the Supremes, she released a string of successful singles, with “Reach Out and Touch Somebody's Hand” and “Ain't No Mountain High Enough” quickly making an impact on the charts. Throughout the 1970s, Ross continued to dominate the music scene with hits like “Touch Me in the Morning,” “Theme From Mahogany (Do You Know Where You're Going To),” and the disco classic “Love Hangover,” each reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Her ability to evolve as an artist while retaining a distinctive sound cemented her status as a music icon.
In addition to her remarkable musical career, Diana Ross showcased her acting talents in several films, most notably in the Billie Holiday biopic “Lady Sings the Blues,” which earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. This film, along with other notable projects such as “Mahogany” and “The Wiz,” demonstrated her versatility as an entertainer. With a career that has spanned over four decades, Ross not only left an indelible mark on the music industry but also established herself as a celebrated figure in film, merging her powerful vocal ability with captivating performances on-screen.
Accolades and Achievements
Diana Ross's illustrious career, spanning over four decades, has earned her numerous accolades that highlight her exceptional contributions to music and film. She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988 as part of the Supremes, a testament to the groundbreaking influence she had on the music industry. Throughout her career, Ross has received several prestigious awards, including a Golden Globe, a Tony Award, and multiple American Music Awards, solidifying her status as a cultural icon.
In 2007, Ross received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Black Entertainment Television, recognizing her lasting impact on the arts. A few weeks after the passing of her father, she was honored by the Kennedy Center for her contributions to entertainment, with fellow artists paying tribute to her remarkable legacy. Her achievements continued with a Grammy Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2012, a long-awaited recognition during a career that included twelve nominations. In 2016, Ross received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, acknowledging her artistic legacy and inspiration to countless artists around the globe.
Personal Life: Married Life and Children
Diana Ross has experienced significant moments in her personal life, including two high-profile marriages and the joys and challenges of motherhood. In 1971, she married Robert Ellis Silberstein, a music business manager, with whom she shared a life entwined in the entertainment industry. However, their marriage ended in divorce, marking a bittersweet chapter for Ross as she pursued her soaring career. In 1986, she wed Norwegian billionaire Arne Næss Jr., a partnership that lasted over a decade before their separation in 1999. Throughout her marriages, Ross continually balanced her professional and personal commitments, exemplifying resilience in navigating the complexities of love and career.
As a devoted mother, Diana Ross has five children: Rhonda, Tracee, Chudney, Ross, and Evan. Rhonda, whose father is Motown founder Berry Gordy Jr., was born before Ross's marriage to Silberstein. Tracee, known for her acclaimed work on television shows like "Girlfriends" and "Black-ish," has made a name for herself in Hollywood, exhibiting the artistic talents that run in the family. Despite her busy career, Ross has prioritized her children, often sharing the joys of motherhood in interviews and public appearances. Her family remains a source of pride, with each child carrying forward the legacy of creativity and talent that Diana Ross has exemplified throughout her illustrious career.
Net Worth and Earning: Diana Ross's Salary
Diana Ross is not only an iconic entertainer known for her powerful vocals and mesmerizing performances, but she also boasts a substantial net worth reflective of her successful career. Throughout her extensive music and acting ventures spanning over four decades, Ross has accumulated a net worth estimated at around $250 million. Her wealth stems from various revenue streams, including album sales, concert tours, and television appearances. Each project across her storied career has contributed to her financial success, showcasing her ability to evolve and remain relevant in the entertainment industry.
Ross's earning potential is bolstered by her ability to draw large crowds during her performances. Concerts are a significant source of income, with ticket sales sometimes reaching upwards of several million dollars per show. Notably, her iconic status allows her to command high fees for live performances and appearances. Additionally, her extensive catalog of hits continues to generate royalties, further enhancing her earning power. Along with her ventures in film and television, including critically acclaimed projects like "Lady Sings the Blues" and "The Wiz," Ross's economic influence reflects her multifaceted talents and enduring appeal.
