50 Years Ago Today! October 14, 1969

[marv2]

50 years ago today! October 14, 1969 "Someday We'll Be Together" was released. It's hard for me to believe, but I remember just how popular this record was. I remember my parents playing it at one of their house parties, as well as the radio stations in Detroit and Toledo playing it a lot:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cb1jGOAvkiA

[RanRan79]

One of the greatest in their catalog. I know a few people who are not Supremes/Diana Ross fans in the least but love "Someday We'll Be Together". Perfect record from top to bottom.

[Bluebrock]

One of the greatest in their catalog. I know a few people who are not Supremes/Diana Ross fans in the least but love "Someday We'll Be Together". Perfect record from top to bottom.
Totally agree. A beautifully controlled vocal performance from Diana. Rarely was a song so well suited to her voice. A timeless classic.

[sup_fan]

it's an excellent record. my fav version is the one with the tambourine intro. i love the intro and think the mix is the best. the more common one has the bgs mixed a bit too far back. and the mix on the #1 cd is not a very good one IMO

[marv2]

The is the more commonly known version and the one I remember from the radio:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXGz8i0I2L0

[marv2]

The DSO [[Detroit Symphony Orchestra) did great job on this recording.

[IMissFlo93]

It's symbolic of Diana Ross saying "Goodbye" to the Supremes. Always has been. And oh if you want a long uncut take that is more powerful with the intro here you go....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gf1hcM3V_oc

[marv2]

This was the first public confirmation [[beginning at 17:40 in this video) that Ross was leaving the Supremes and that Terrell would be replacing her. From North American powerhouse station out of Windsor, Ontario Canada.....CKLW!

https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x7mpxf0

[marv2]

It's symbolic of Diana Ross saying "Goodbye" to the Supremes. Always has been. And oh if you want a long uncut take that is more powerful with the intro here you go....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gf1hcM3V_oc

I heard this alternate before. I never liked it. Sounds too mournful.

[milven]

The version I like best is the one Marv posted at top of the thread. It starts with the tambourine, which was the first way that I heard it, and there is an instrument that starts like a pounding piano at the ten-second mark that I love [[what is that?) The DSO seems to be more prominent in this version too.

This is my all-time favorite Supremes song and one my all-time favorite songs.
A couple of months after its release in October, it became the last number one song of the sixties.

[sup_fan]

The version I like best is the one Marv posted at top of the thread. It starts with the tambourine, which was the first way that I heard it, and there is an instrument that starts like a pounding piano at the ten-second mark that I love [[what is that?) The DSO seems to be more prominent in this version too.

This is my all-time favorite Supremes song and one my all-time favorite songs.
A couple of months after its release in October, it became the last number one song of the sixties.

i believe the instrument making the pounding piano sound is.... a piano lol ;)

[sup_fan]

as for studio versions, there's the tambourine one, the non-tam one and then the L&F one. plus a more recently mixed version on #1.

any other studio versions?

Live [[w DMC) - i think we only have Farewell. unless you count the 30 seconds on Motown 25. then there's the JMC version with Smokey. and it was occasionally included in some of the 60s medleys throughout the 70s

[marv2]

Mary also recorded a live version for her "I Am Changing" CD:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuW2GV1O2Fo

[marv2]

I love this version. The audience were really into it:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQjz6awAais

[marv2]

I still find a it a bit hard believing it's been 50 years. I have many good, clear memories of the time when this song was current and very popular. One of the best time periods of my life.

[Roberta75]

I love this version. The audience were really into it:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQjz6awAais


Sorry but that versions one hot mess.

[midnightman]

The studio version was one of the greatest recordings in soul history.

[milven]

i believe the instrument making the pounding piano sound is.... a piano lol ;)

:D:D Figures, I love piano. And I love that note at ten seconds. It is very prominent in this mix. I made a ringtone starting at that point with that mix. It gets my attention when the phone rings.

[NativeNuYorker]

50 years? It still sounds great with Johnny Bristol's vocals in the background and of course the Funk Brothers. Why were Mary and Cindy not singing on this recording knowing this was a farewell song?

[marv2]

50 years? It still sounds great with Johnny Bristol's vocals in the background and of course the Funk Brothers. Why were Mary and Cindy not singing on this recording knowing this was a farewell song?

They are not singing on it because the music and background vocals on the track were already recorded as this was originally intended for Junior Walker. Mr. Gordy heard it and thought it would make a great record for Diana Ross' first solo release. He then later decided to release it as the last single for Diana Ross & The Supremes.

[marv2]

50 years? It still sounds great with Johnny Bristol's vocals in the background and of course the Funk Brothers. Why were Mary and Cindy not singing on this recording knowing this was a farewell song?

Mary Wilson and Cindy Birdsong didn't know anything about any farewell song. The DSO also made this record special in my opinion. The strings were perfect on it.

[milven]

It's symbolic of Diana Ross saying "Goodbye" to the Supremes. Always has been. And oh if you want a long uncut take that is more powerful with the intro here you go....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gf1hcM3V_oc

The first version in this thread is perfect with Diana, Johnny, DSO, the turned up background singers, and that piano ;).

Diana in this alternate version is not good at all. How real is the story of Johnny coaching her or boosting her on? I hear him on this version too and it didn't work.

[reese]

The first version in this thread is perfect with Diana, Johnny, DSO, the turned up background singers, and that piano ;).

Diana in this alternate version is not good at all. How real is the story of Johnny coaching her or boosting her on? I hear him on this version too and it didn't work.

This version isn't too bad. For sure, it doesn't match the version that was released but it sounds like Diana basically has her interpretation down but just needs to finetune it a bit.

I never heard anyone dispute Johnny's story that he went into another booth and sort of pushed Diana along as she was getting tired. But his "boosts" on this alternate version are the very same ones that are on the hit single so maybe he didn't have to do it that much. Or at least any of his alternate versions have yet to surface.

[marv2]

The first version in this thread is perfect with Diana, Johnny, DSO, the turned up background singers, and that piano ;).

Diana in this alternate version is not good at all. How real is the story of Johnny coaching her or boosting her on? I hear him on this version too and it didn't work.

It is true about Johnny Bristol. He, Mary Wilson ,his daughter Karla and even Diana Ross herself all confirmed that. He says "sing it pretty", "do you mean it honey", "say it baby, say it", "oh yes now baby", "sing it" . I highly doubt those were left on a track that was originally recorded for Junior Walker! LOL! When he went into studio with Diane, he coached and prodded her through the song, something most good background singers do in Gospel and R&B. They push the lead singer, encourage them, make them "feel it".

Now don't ask me to go and find links and stuff. I ain't no research dept. I just know what I know from listening, reading and talking to people involved in some way.

[milven]

I agree with what you said. The alternate version needed work. It was not Diana at her best. The prodding worked. The released version is perfect. But mine is a technical question. Why is he heard on this alternate take?

I have an alternate take on a cassette somewhere in my garage that I got about forty years ago. He can be heard on that version, although that cassette may very well be the same alternate version that is here.

[marv2]

I agree with what you said. The alternate version needed work. It was not Diana at her best. The prodding worked. The released version is perfect. But mine is a technical question. Why is he heard on this alternate take?

I have an alternate take on a cassette somewhere in my garage that I got about forty years ago. He can be heard on that version, although that cassette may very well be the same alternate version that is here.

They did not do it in one take. The alternate take is just one of several. Diana Ross is notorious for getting moody in the studio when recording. Johnny Bristol would have had to figure out some way to make her "sing". They had to get her nearly drunk when recording "Love Hangover" and you've heard what the Holland brothers had to go through to get the vocal they wanted for "Where Did Our Love Go?".

[marv2]

You notice Johnny Bristol is one of the first voices you hear once the record starts humming right along with Diana. I know his being there and doing what he did resulted in this record become a number one smash hit and now a classic.

[marv2]

This version isn't too bad. For sure, it doesn't match the version that was released but it sounds like Diana basically has her interpretation down but just needs to finetune it a bit.

I never heard anyone dispute Johnny's story that he went into another booth and sort of pushed Diana along as she was getting tired. But his "boosts" on this alternate version are the very same ones that are on the hit single so maybe he didn't have to do it that much. Or at least any of his alternate versions have yet to surface.

When Johnny was living out in Brighton [[MI) he had a massive amount of tapes and recordings there before he passed.

[Ollie9]

They did not do it in one take. The alternate take is just one of several. Diana Ross is notorious for getting moody in the studio when recording. Johnny Bristol would have had to figure out some way to make her "sing". They had to get her nearly drunk when recording "Love Hangover" and you've heard what the Holland brothers had to go through to get the vocal they wanted for "Where Did Our Love Go?".

She might have had a nip of brandy to loosen up , but i never heard that she was drunk lol.

[floyjoy678]

I love "Someday We'll Be Together", it's such a bittersweet song.I do wonder if it only hit #1 because everyone knew it was the final Diana Ross and The Supremes single. I like the version with the organ playing in the beginning, it feels like you're at a funeral...for the Supremes lol.

[sup_fan]

Mary Wilson and Cindy Birdsong didn't know anything about any farewell song. The DSO also made this record special in my opinion. The strings were perfect on it.

yes and yes

the strings are gorgeous on this record. perfection

and correct, this wasn't planned as a Farewell record. it's simply a coincidence between the breakup of the group and the sentimental tone of the lyrics

[marv2]

She might have had a nip of brandy to loosen up , but i never heard that she was drunk lol.

That's not what I heard. I heard she was TUNED way up! They even left her laughter on the released recording! LOL!

[sup_fan]

They did not do it in one take. The alternate take is just one of several. Diana Ross is notorious for getting moody in the studio when recording. Johnny Bristol would have had to figure out some way to make her "sing". They had to get her nearly drunk when recording "Love Hangover" and you've heard what the Holland brothers had to go through to get the vocal they wanted for "Where Did Our Love Go?".

actually HDH have been on record saying that Diana was an amazing pro in the studio. she was prepared, knew her material and did most of the songs in just a take or two. Sure there are some songs maybe she didn't like, such as Where initially. but she was barely 20 years old at the time. i think she can be given some credit for that.

Michael masser also compliments diana and he also recognized that he would give her HELL in the studio

A&S have said she was great to work with.

Hal Davis said she knocked the slow sexy part of Hangover out quickly but was so unfamiliar with the disco approach that she felt she just couldn't do it. so not surprised if they gave her a drink or two. then he said they turned on a strobe light and some colored lights to give the place a vibe like a disco. seems ingenious to me as the end result is an amazing song and she "felt it." she laughed, did a little Billie, and just had fun with it.

[marv2]

I spoke to my mom yesterday and mentioned "Someday We'll Be Together" came out 50 years ago this week. She was surprised and told me that she had just heard it on "Soul Town" a sirius satellite radio station the day before. Then we reminisced about Detroit back when this song was new. Neither of us could believe that it has been 50 years already.

[sup_fan]

That's not what I heard. I heard she was TUNED way up! They even left her laughter on the released recording! LOL!

even if she was drunk what's the difference? 1) she was of legal age 2) she consented to the alcohol and 3) alcohol isn't an illegal substance such as pot or coke.

Marvin had long acknowledged his need for pot while recording. and lord knows other artists have done much, much worse

[marv2]

actually HDH have been on record saying that Diana was an amazing pro in the studio. she was prepared, knew her material and did most of the songs in just a take or two. Sure there are some songs maybe she didn't like, such as Where initially. but she was barely 20 years old at the time. i think she can be given some credit for that.

Michael masser also compliments diana and he also recognized that he would give her HELL in the studio

A&S have said she was great to work with.

Hal Davis said she knocked the slow sexy part of Hangover out quickly but was so unfamiliar with the disco approach that she felt she just couldn't do it. so not surprised if they gave her a drink or two. then he said they turned on a strobe light and some colored lights to give the place a vibe like a disco. seems ingenious to me as the end result is an amazing song and she "felt it." she laughed, did a little Billie, and just had fun with it.

Robin Seymour was invited to a Supremes recording session by Berry Gordy. He wrote about his shock and surprised at how they had to spoon feed each line of the lyrics to Diana Ross and how Berry would yell at her to start singing because once the music started, she did not know when to begin singing. She has worked with a number of high profile producers over the years. Ever wonder why Richard Perry never worked with her again or even speaks about the "Baby It's Me" album? The Gibb Brothers talked about what a nightmare it was recording her the 80s.

[marv2]

even if she was drunk what's the difference? 1) she was of legal age 2) she consented to the alcohol and 3) alcohol isn't an illegal substance such as pot or coke.

Marvin had long acknowledged his need for pot while recording. and lord knows other artists have done much, much worse

You missed the point and this is not that serious!

[sup_fan]

Robin Seymour was invited to a Supremes recording session by Berry Gordy. He wrote about his shock and surprised at how they had to spoon feed each line of the lyrics to Diana Ross and how Berry would yell at her to start singing because once the music started, she did not know when to begin singing. She has worked with a number of high profile producers over the years. Ever wonder why Richard Perry never worked with her again or even speaks about the "Baby It's Me" album? The Gibb Brothers talked about what a nightmare it was recording her the 80s.

actually she did work with Perry. she brought him in and he handled the single mix of of So Close.

also Perry had begun work on the follow up album to Baby It's Me but because the songs weren't successful it was decided to move on. The album didn't produce any major hits so why bother with another

[reese]

actually she did work with Perry. she brought him in and he handled the single mix of of So Close.

also Perry had begun work on the follow up album to Baby It's Me but because the songs weren't successful it was decided to move on. The album didn't produce any major hits so why bother with another

Perry also produced her hit duet with Julio Iglesias, ALL OF YOU.

[marv2]

actually she did work with Perry. she brought him in and he handled the single mix of of So Close.

also Perry had begun work on the follow up album to Baby It's Me but because the songs weren't successful it was decided to move on. The album didn't produce any major hits so why bother with another

Uh, uh, that's not why. Don't you remember the reports of that recording session in 1977?

[midnightman]

actually she did work with Perry. she brought him in and he handled the single mix of of So Close.

also Perry had begun work on the follow up album to Baby It's Me but because the songs weren't successful it was decided to move on. The album didn't produce any major hits so why bother with another

Motown barely promoted Baby It's Me as it is. That always bothered me.

[vgalindo]

Perry also produced her hit duet with Julio Iglesias, ALL OF YOU.
Marv always says Richard Perry didn’t work with Diana Ross again. I pointed this out in another thread that he has. He just keeps up with his lies.

[marv2]

Marv always says Richard Perry didn’t work with Diana Ross again. I pointed this out in another thread that he has. He just keeps up with his lies.

I don't lie. He had a problem with her. You're stupid and don't know much but how to worship this woman.

[marv2]

Motown barely promoted Baby It's Me as it is. That always bothered me.

Motown did have these huge paintings/posters up of the album cover in Peaches Records at the time.

[PeaceNHarmony]

Marv always says Richard Perry didn’t work with Diana Ross again. I pointed this out in another thread that he has. He just keeps up with his lies.Dood should work as the djt White House press secretary!

[Bluebrock]

Perry also produced her hit duet with Julio Iglesias, ALL OF YOU.
Yes he did. Marv is once again talking through his rear end. Little wonder he is so full of shit.

[Bluebrock]

Robin Seymour was invited to a Supremes recording session by Berry Gordy. He wrote about his shock and surprised at how they had to spoon feed each line of the lyrics to Diana Ross and how Berry would yell at her to start singing because once the music started, she did not know when to begin singing. She has worked with a number of high profile producers over the years. Ever wonder why Richard Perry never worked with her again or even speaks about the "Baby It's Me" album? The Gibb Brothers talked about what a nightmare it was recording her the 80s.

I know Barry Gibb and i have discussed his working relationship with Diana. He says that Chain Reaction is his all time favorite creation for another artist. He even sent some demos to Diana a couple of years back which she foolishly rejected. He said he would happily work with Diana again. It is the late Maurice Gibb who clashed with Diana, and that was never a great issue because he was hardly involved with the Eaten Alive album. It was Barry and to a lesser extent Robin who were in the studio with her.
Barry may yet be involved again with Diana again on a future project. Watch this space.

[Roberta75]

I don't lie. He had a problem with her. You're stupid and don't know much but how to worship this woman.

Hehehehehehehehehehehehehehehehehe. You never lie when your asleep but every waking moment you spew more lies than President Pus*y Grabber. Hehehehehehehehehehehehehe.

[vgalindo]

Hehehehehehehehehehehehehehehehehe. You never lie when your asleep but every waking moment you spew more lies than President Pus*y Grabber. Hehehehehehehehehehehehehe.
Thank you Roberta. A very good comparison. I don’t know how he can say he don’t lie with a straight face. Lol

[midnightman]

How do you get Maurice and Barry Gibb confused? BG loved Diana, still does. Maurice, bless his soul, didn't work as hard as Barry. Robin, bless HIS soul as well, was more attentive but Barry controlled the sessions. Eaten Alive could've been okay had a certain pop star not been added and the album was called Chain Reaction lol

[PeaceNHarmony]

I know Barry Gibb and i have discussed his working relationship with Diana. He says that Chain Reaction is his all time favorite creation for another artist. He even sent some demos to Diana a couple of years back which she foolishly rejected. He said he would happily work with Diana again. It is the late Maurice Gibb who clashed with Diana, and that was never a great issue because he was hardly involved with the Eaten Alive album. It was Barry and to a lesser extent Robin who were in the studio with her.
Barry may yet be involved again with Diana again on a future project. Watch this space.I hope you have peanut butter 'cause I'm bringing the jelly! [[A USA slang for 'jealous'). Always loved the Bee Gees and on my after-midnight drives home from a second job I've been listening to, and luxuriating in, lesser-known Gibb lp's. 'Life In a Tin Can', 'Odessa', etc. My GOODNESS those Gibb guys were brilliant. Not good. Not great. Brilliant.

[PeaceNHarmony]

Perry also produced her hit duet with Julio Iglesias, ALL OF YOU.With Wilson's year of sizzle turned into a year of fizzle he/they are in a full-on Giuliani meltdown. HeHeHe!

[marv2]

One of my favorite internet radio stations in the early 2000s is also recognizing the 50th Anniversary of "Someday We'll Be Together":

https://www.accuradio.com/featured/supremes/accuradio.com/sharing

[Bluebrock]

I hope you have peanut butter 'cause I'm bringing the jelly! [[A USA slang for 'jealous'). Always loved the Bee Gees and on my after-midnight drives home from a second job I've been listening to, and luxuriating in, lesser-known Gibb lp's. 'Life In a Tin Can', 'Odessa', etc. My GOODNESS those Gibb guys were brilliant. Not good. Not great. Brilliant.
I totally agree. What a fantastic body of work they have left us with as performers, songwriters and producers. They are up there with Lennon and McCartney in the rock music era for coming out with classic after classic, and they have been far more prolific too. Musical geniuses for sure that have to be respected even if they are not your actual cup of tea.

[Bluebrock]

I don't lie. He had a problem with her. You're stupid and don't know much but how to worship this woman.
You do lie. You have been caught out yet again by claiming she did not work with Richard Perry again after Baby it's me, and you're stupid and don't know much but how to deride this woman.

[Bluebrock]

How do you get Maurice and Barry Gibb confused? BG loved Diana, still does. Maurice, bless his soul, didn't work as hard as Barry. Robin, bless HIS soul as well, was more attentive but Barry controlled the sessions. Eaten Alive could've been okay had a certain pop star not been added and the album was called Chain Reaction lol
Barry always was the driving force of the group. He usually gave equal credit to his brothers, but it was usually Barry who did the writing and most of the hard work in the studio. I am not going to diss Maurice who was a nice guy, but he did not have the work ethic of Barry and neither did Robin.

[Ollie9]

It would be fair to say there have been producers who have enjoyed working with Diana over the years and others [[although not many) less so.
Surely this is the situation with most [[not all) recording artists. Thats life.
I really don't see the big deal.

[PeaceNHarmony]

It would be fair to say there have been producers who have enjoyed working with Diana over the years and others [[although not many) less so.
Surely this is the situation with most [[not all) recording artists. Thats life.
I really don't see the big deal.And indeed it's not. Except for a poster or 2!

[PeaceNHarmony]

I totally agree. What a fantastic body of work they have left us with as performers, songwriters and producers. They are up there with Lennon and McCartney in the rock music era for coming out with classic after classic, and they have been far more prolific too. Musical geniuses for sure that have to be respected even if they are not your actual cup of tea.Yes, perfectly stated. During my after-midnight listenings I had a similar Beatles thought and could not help but wonder ... of the Gibbs had less distinctive voices perhaps they may have been taken more seriously. 'Trafalgar' is a decades-long favorite. Saturday night's ride home will begin with 'Mr. Natural'.

[Bluebrock]

Yes, perfectly stated. During my after-midnight listenings I had a similar Beatles thought and could not help but wonder ... of the Gibbs had less distinctive voices perhaps they may have been taken more seriously. 'Trafalgar' is a decades-long favorite. Saturday night's ride home will begin with 'Mr. Natural'.
They were respected by their peers more than the critics. That always meant more to them than being fashionable and trendy. Trafalgar is also a personal favorite of mine which has stood the test of time.
Barry takes things a little easier these days. The passing of his brothers made him take stock of his life, but he has a couple of projects planned including another solo album, and maybe just maybe linking up once again with a certain legendary diva with whom he claims he has unfinished business. nudge nudge, Wink wink.

[vgalindo]

You do lie. You have been caught out yet again by claiming she did not work with Richard Perry again after Baby it's me, and you're stupid and don't know much but how to deride this woman.
Thank you Bluebrock. He has the nerve!

[Roberta75]

You do lie. You have been caught out yet again by claiming she did not work with Richard Perry again after Baby it's me, and you're stupid and don't know much but how to deride this woman.

A true pathological liar doesnt give a darn when there busted for lying cause theyve no shame whatseover. Real sad but real true.

[RanRan79]

Robin Seymour was invited to a Supremes recording session by Berry Gordy. He wrote about his shock and surprised at how they had to spoon feed each line of the lyrics to Diana Ross and how Berry would yell at her to start singing because once the music started, she did not know when to begin singing.

What does this say about Diana Ross though? Again, her main producers over the years have gone on record time and time again to speak about the work ethic of Diana Ross. Sup Fan does a fantastic job of outlining this in a previous post. Whatever Robin witnessed needs some context. What song was it? When was this? Isn't an artist allowed to have a weakness, like finding it difficult to figure out a particular song? Isn't the job of the producer to figure out how to get the best possible performance from the singer, no matter what? Berry Gordy was apparently the producer of this session. Could the problem have been him? After all, we've never heard that HDH had to spoon feed anything to her.

[RanRan79]

I don't lie. He had a problem with her.

Did he tell you that or are you going off of these mysterious "reports"? And let's say it is the truth that they didn't get along while recording Baby It's Me. Apparently whatever it was wasn't so bad that they refused to work together on not one but two projects in the 1980s. Are you willing to admit that you were at least wrong about Perry not working with Ross again?

[RanRan79]

Eaten Alive could've been okay had a certain pop star not been added

"Eaten Alive" did as well as it did because of Michael Jackson, not in spite of. Let's not rewrite history because you've changed your opinion about the man.

[khansperac]

Wasn’t their one recording session where HDH were literally writing or rewriting the lyrics while the Supremes/Diana were laying down vocals?

[RanRan79]

It would be fair to say there have been producers who have enjoyed working with Diana over the years and others [[although not many) less so.
Surely this is the situation with most [[not all) recording artists. Thats life.
I really don't see the big deal.

You know why the big deal.:rolleyes:

[lucky2012]

What does this say about Diana Ross though? Again, her main producers over the years have gone on record time and time again to speak about the work ethic of Diana Ross. Sup Fan does a fantastic job of outlining this in a previous post. Whatever Robin witnessed needs some context. What song was it? When was this? Isn't an artist allowed to have a weakness, like finding it difficult to figure out a particular song? Isn't the job of the producer to figure out how to get the best possible performance from the singer, no matter what? Berry Gordy was apparently the producer of this session. Could the problem have been him? After all, we've never heard that HDH had to spoon feed anything to her.
Thank you, RanRan. In The Hollands' Come And Get These Memories, in the chapter "Diana, Mary & Florence", Eddie Holland has a great account of the Where Did Our Love Go recording session. It was ultimately "the only time I have ever had friction with Diana. Because to me, she was a jewel...always inspirational.."
He confirms that it was he who thought Mary's voice would be more suited for the song but both Brian and Lamont Dozier laughed and didn't think he was serious. They did agree to cut the track in a lower key. The main take-away I got from this is that Where Did Our Love Go was an important song, a serious concerted project to take the Supremes to the next level. It was not a trivial ditty meant for other artists at Motown.

[marv2]

Did he tell you that or are you going off of these mysterious "reports"? And let's say it is the truth that they didn't get along while recording Baby It's Me. Apparently whatever it was wasn't so bad that they refused to work together on not one but two projects in the 1980s. Are you willing to admit that you were at least wrong about Perry not working with Ross again?

Lionel Richie had a problem with her and he did one more song with her called Missing You about 3-4 years after they recorded "Endless Love" and nothing else since! I don't even think they have appeared together anywhere to reprise "Endless Love". He said everyone at Motown was friendly, but she was "aloof"!

[reese]

Wasn’t their one recording session where HDH were literally writing or rewriting the lyrics while the Supremes/Diana were laying down vocals?

I believe it was I HEAR A SYMPHONY.

[Roberta75]

Lionel Richie had a problem with her and he did one more song with her called Missing You about 3-4 years after they recorded "Endless Love" and nothing else since! I don't even think they have appeared together anywhere to reprise "Endless Love". He said everyone at Motown was friendly, but she was "aloof"!

Let it go. Lionel loves her and has said so. Your sick obsession to trash Diane Ross on a daily basis isnt healthy. GET A LIFE cause your pis*ng away this one fussing over a woman who couldnt care less about you.

[Bluebrock]

Lionel Richie had a problem with her and he did one more song with her called Missing You about 3-4 years after they recorded "Endless Love" and nothing else since! I don't even think they have appeared together anywhere to reprise "Endless Love". He said everyone at Motown was friendly, but she was "aloof"!

You may just have to eat your words next year Miss Marv. Just saying

[midnightman]

Why is this man obsessed with people's thoughts on Diana? Lionel has pushed for Diana to be at Glastonbury for years! Not even Mary hates Diana and neither did Flo. Like come on... this man is holding on to this grudge that started when the woman told him "no cameras", and he won't go to a Mary show because she might say the same thing. Just let him post by himself. We know what he says is not true at the slightest.

[Ollie9]

You know why the big deal.:rolleyes:

In the scheme of life it is but a dot on the horizon. :)

[RanRan79]

Thank you, RanRan. In The Hollands' Come And Get These Memories, in the chapter "Diana, Mary & Florence", Eddie Holland has a great account of the Where Did Our Love Go recording session. It was ultimately "the only time I have ever had friction with Diana. Because to me, she was a jewel...always inspirational.."
He confirms that it was he thought Mary's voice would be more suited for the song but both Brian and Lamont Dozier laughed and didn't think he was serious. They did agree to cut the track in a lower key. The main take-away I got from this is that Where Did Our Love Go was an important song, a serious concerted project to take the Supremes to the next level. It was not a trivial ditty meant for other artists at Motown.

I contacted my local library about this book a couple weeks ago for purchase. They hadn't bought it yet. I got an email last week saying it's on the way and expect to read it soon. Can't wait!

But HDH have been very vocal about their love of Diana Ross. I suspect that if they hated working with her there's no way they would've gotten ten number ones and additional smash hits and albums out of their collab with one another. Something would've been off and the stuff wouldn't have been so good.

[RanRan79]

Lionel Richie had a problem with her and he did one more song with her called Missing You about 3-4 years after they recorded "Endless Love" and nothing else since! I don't even think they have appeared together anywhere to reprise "Endless Love". He said everyone at Motown was friendly, but she was "aloof"!

Marv I have a headache from beating my head against your brick wall.:p You pulled the Lionel thing out of your ass and I don't feel the need to address it. What will do is ask you again: are you willing to admit that you were wrong about Richard Perry? You said the reason he never worked with her again was because they didn't get along and you were wrong about them never working together again [[which of course also means you could be wrong about them having a problem in studio). You gonna man up or what?

[vgalindo]

Lionel Richie had a problem with her and he did one more song with her called Missing You about 3-4 years after they recorded "Endless Love" and nothing else since! I don't even think they have appeared together anywhere to reprise "Endless Love". He said everyone at Motown was friendly, but she was "aloof"!
Another lie! They have never appeared anywhere to reprise Endless Love. Well what is this? Lol
If he has a problem with her. Then why appear with her here?
https://youtu.be/7Bwwo7ctG10

[RanRan79]

Why is this man obsessed with people's thoughts on Diana? Lionel has pushed for Diana to be at Glastonbury for years! Not even Mary hates Diana and neither did Flo. Like come on... this man is holding on to this grudge that started when the woman told him "no cameras", and he won't go to a Mary show because she might say the same thing. Just let him post by himself. We know what he says is not true at the slightest.

This board is chocked full of nuts man. One dude is obsessed with Mary, while another dude is obsessed with Diana, and then they both have an army who champions their cause. And then there's this new thing of a group of them following Marv around to every thread and concerned with what shows he's attending and what books he's buying. What the fuck is going on in this place?! This is why my breaks from the forum get longer and longer. It's exhausting to read through a lot of this crap.

[marv2]

Marv I have a headache from beating my head against your brick wall.:p You pulled the Lionel thing out of your ass and I don't feel the need to address it. What will do is ask you again: are you willing to admit that you were wrong about Richard Perry? You said the reason he never worked with her again was because they didn't get along and you were wrong about them never working together again [[which of course also means you could be wrong about them having a problem in studio). You gonna man up or what?

I am sorry, but I did not make that up. I could pull the article up where says that. BUT! This thread was suppose to be about the 50th Anniversary of a great song, "Someday We'll Be Together", at least that was how it started and that was my original intent. I was hoping to hear more of people's personal memories about this song and the time that it was released. I can remember Diana Ross saying on their "Farewell" album that the song means different things to different people. I've heard it played right after funerals etc. For me it just brings up memories of what was a carefree childhood and how happy I was in general around the time this song came out. I don't want to talk about anything else here from this point on.

[thanxal]

This board is chocked full of nuts man. One dude is obsessed with Mary, while another dude is obsessed with Diana, and then they both have an army who champions their cause. And then there's this new thing of a group of them following Marv around to every thread and concerned with what shows he's attending and what books he's buying. What the fuck is going on in this place?! This is why my breaks from the forum get longer and longer. It's exhausting to read through a lot of this crap.
16421
Or insert any telenovela here.

[marv2]

People are remembering. Here the FLOS mark the 50th Anniversary of "Someday We'll Be Together"


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ByplDJfeDHc

[marv2]

For those who missed the original recorded in 1961........


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2IQBqfrukto

[marv2]

From the first to very last recording of "Someday, Well Be Together" [[I know it was recorded again after this, but is the last one with Diana, Mary and Cindy)


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEYVvw5au28

[Roberta75]

I am sorry, but I did not make that up. I could pull the article up where says that. BUT! This thread was suppose to be about the 50th Anniversary of a great song, "Someday We'll Be Together", at least that was how it started and that was my original intent. I was hoping to hear more of people's personal memories about this song and the time that it was released. I can remember Diana Ross saying on their "Farewell" album that the song means different things to different people. I've heard it played right after funerals etc. For me it just brings up memories of what was a carefree childhood and how happy I was in general around the time this song came out. I don't want to talk about anything else here from this point on.

LMAO. I love it when you get called out for you BS and real tall tales you play Mary Sunshine. Hehehehehehehehehehehehehehehe.

[jobeterob]

How come Mary shuns Marv?

[PeaceNHarmony]

How come Mary shuns Marv?Same reason everyone else does, I'm thinkin ?

[midnightman]

This board is chocked full of nuts man. One dude is obsessed with Mary, while another dude is obsessed with Diana, and then they both have an army who champions their cause. And then there's this new thing of a group of them following Marv around to every thread and concerned with what shows he's attending and what books he's buying. What the fuck is going on in this place?! This is why my breaks from the forum get longer and longer. It's exhausting to read through a lot of this crap.

I AGREE ON BOTH FRONTS.

It's just too much... that's why half the time I don't comment on Supremes posts because both sides think their favorite is the greatest thing since sliced bread and were perfect people or something.

It's frustrating.

[Bluebrock]

I am sorry, but I did not make that up. I could pull the article up where says that. BUT! This thread was suppose to be about the 50th Anniversary of a great song, "Someday We'll Be Together", at least that was how it started and that was my original intent. I was hoping to hear more of people's personal memories about this song and the time that it was released. I can remember Diana Ross saying on their "Farewell" album that the song means different things to different people. I've heard it played right after funerals etc. For me it just brings up memories of what was a carefree childhood and how happy I was in general around the time this song came out. I don't want to talk about anything else here from this point on.
So you are still not man enough to admit you were wrong about Richard Perry not working with Diana again?

[Ollie9]

I had never heard the original 61 version before. Not to inspiring lol.
I have no memories of the song when first released as i was to young. I do think quite possibly that it might not have been as successful had it been Diana's first solo single.
The plaintive, wistful lyrics and the fact that it was the Supremes last single together lent the song further pathos. Had it been released at a later date it might not have had the same impact.

[Bluebrock]

I had never heard the original 61 version before. Not to inspiring lol.
I have no memories of the song when first released as i was to young. I do think quite possibly that it might not have been as successful had it been Diana's first solo single.
The plaintive, wistful lyrics and the fact that it was the Supremes last single together lent the song further pathos. Had it been released at a later date it might not have had the same impact.

I agree. It was the perfect farewell song for Diana. Sombre, wistful and emotional. It worked far better as the final DRATS single rather than Diana's debut. A perfect way to move from one decade to another.
I still maintain that Reach out and touch was a great choice for Diana's solo debut. Had she performed it on Ed Sullivan as originally planned i am sure it would have gone top 10.

[marv2]

I had never heard the original 61 version before. Not to inspiring lol.
I have no memories of the song when first released as i was to young. I do think quite possibly that it might not have been as successful had it been Diana's first solo single.
The plaintive, wistful lyrics and the fact that it was the Supremes last single together lent the song further pathos. Had it been released at a later date it might not have had the same impact.

I agree. I think that was an excellent marketing move to do what they did.

[milven]

So you are still not man enough to admit you were wrong about Richard Perry not working with Diana again?

I saw a documentary last night about lawyer Roy Cohn. He taught our current President to double down, lie, never admit that you were wrong, and to deflect tp something else when he is boxed in a corner. I don't think that we will ever see our lying President admit that he was wrong. Marv won't either. With his backing by Ralph, we just have to live with it and hope that SOMEDAY........

[sup_fan]

I agree. It was the perfect farewell song for Diana. Sombre, wistful and emotional. It worked far better as the final DRATS single rather than Diana's debut. A perfect way to move from one decade to another.
I still maintain that Reach out and touch was a great choice for Diana's solo debut. Had she performed it on Ed Sullivan as originally planned i am sure it would have gone top 10.

i don't know. i do agree that with more tv promotion, it could have done better.

But i still think the dreamy waltz atmosphere of the song is just not that exciting. The supremes debuted with Ladder and good god! a totally new sound, theme and it builds to a tremendous ending.

Reach certainly builds but it's just never worked for me

Imagine if Mountain had been her debut!!

[Bluebrock]

I saw a documentary last night about lawyer Roy Cohn. He taught our current President to double down, lie, never admit that you were wrong, and to deflect tp something else when he is boxed in a corner. I don't think that we will ever see our lying President admit that he was wrong. Marv won't either. With his backing by Ralph, we just have to live with it and hope that SOMEDAY........

I guess the most important thing is that he got caught lying. The very fact that he is too much of a coward to hold his hands up and admit he was wrong makes it even funnier, not to mention very embarassing for him.

[144man]

^^^ No. No. No. No. No.

The most important thing is that your incessant arguments have ruined what should have been a perfectly good thread.

I'M BEGINNING TO HATE YOU ALL.

[sup_fan]

^144 you bring up a very valid point. We've all been guilty of egging on [[and sometime even engaging) in inappropriate behavior.

I think all of us should step back, exhale and refocus ourselves on the music and the Supremes. Let's engage in POSITIVE dialog and avoid mud slinging - either to the girls or to Soulful members. And if someone DOES make an inappropriate comment, you can always block them or simply ignore their post.

144 - i do hope you don't abandon the forum. we've had too many members slip away over the years. the only way these work and provide value is if we share and dialog. I hope you'll stay around :)

[midnightman]

I had never heard the original 61 version before. Not to inspiring lol.
I have no memories of the song when first released as i was to young. I do think quite possibly that it might not have been as successful had it been Diana's first solo single.
The plaintive, wistful lyrics and the fact that it was the Supremes last single together lent the song further pathos. Had it been released at a later date it might not have had the same impact.

The original version is not that good. Sometimes original versions are not as juiced as they appear to be lol

[PeaceNHarmony]

I agree. It was the perfect farewell song for Diana. Sombre, wistful and emotional. It worked far better as the final DRATS single rather than Diana's debut. A perfect way to move from one decade to another.
I still maintain that Reach out and touch was a great choice for Diana's solo debut. Had she performed it on Ed Sullivan as originally planned i am sure it would have gone top 10.I agree all around.

[RanRan79]

I am sorry, but I did not make that up. I could pull the article up where says that. BUT! This thread was suppose to be about the 50th Anniversary of a great song, "Someday We'll Be Together", at least that was how it started and that was my original intent. I was hoping to hear more of people's personal memories about this song and the time that it was released. I can remember Diana Ross saying on their "Farewell" album that the song means different things to different people. I've heard it played right after funerals etc. For me it just brings up memories of what was a carefree childhood and how happy I was in general around the time this song came out. I don't want to talk about anything else here from this point on.

Well I think it's sad that you refuse to admit your "mistake". You want people to take your word for stuff but even when there's proof that you're wrong you stick with your story and it diminishes your word. You should be more mature than that at this stage of your life.

But you are right about one thing, this thread should be about the music [[although it is your fault that the thread moved from the music to your disdain for Diana Ross).

As far as my "Someday We'll Be Together" memories go, since I was born many years later, my earliest memory of the song, I believe, is when it was used on an episode of "The Wonder Years".

[RanRan79]

16421
Or insert any telenovela here.

Not even. More like this...

16424

Or insert any movie about the certifiably insane.

[RanRan79]

I had never heard the original 61 version before. Not to inspiring lol.
I have no memories of the song when first released as i was to young. I do think quite possibly that it might not have been as successful had it been Diana's first solo single.
The plaintive, wistful lyrics and the fact that it was the Supremes last single together lent the song further pathos. Had it been released at a later date it might not have had the same impact.

Think about the period of time it was released in. While certainly the promo around the song being Diana's last with the Supremes didn't hurt, this was also at the height of the Vietnam War. I can imagine that this song's lyrics were very real for those with loved ones serving overseas or even with some who had perished. I think it was destined to hit #1 as Diana Ross and the Supremes or simply as Diana Ross. Even without the war element, "Someday" as the debut single would've probably been viewed by the public as Diana's goodbye to the Supremes anyway.

[RanRan79]

I'M BEGINNING TO HATE YOU ALL.

And I shan't lose a wink of sleep...

[RanRan79]

i don't know. i do agree that with more tv promotion, it could have done better.

But i still think the dreamy waltz atmosphere of the song is just not that exciting. The supremes debuted with Ladder and good god! a totally new sound, theme and it builds to a tremendous ending.

Reach certainly builds but it's just never worked for me

Imagine if Mountain had been her debut!!

"Reach Out" is a great song, but there's no way that I would've greenlit it as the first single. Luckily it struck a cord with the public and became a hit anyway, but I have to believe that everyone involved was surprised when it did. This was the time of the feel good song. Songs about humanity and togetherness were all the rage, so in that regard I guess releasing it as a single may have made some sense. But most of those type of songs were upbeat and rousing. "Dreamy waltz" is a great description of the beat. I figure that in addition to the lyrics, what got the public on board was Diana's vocal. She sounds like she means every word.

[khansperac]

I think reach out is a great song. It is a legendary song in popular music. It’s funny to see so many people reference the waltz tempo now. I don’t recall people discussing it until it was mentioned in one of those books. I always felt it was more gospel. Not denying what it may be, but when I hear it, I don’t think waltz.

[midnightman]

I hear gospel too. I don't get people who think hear a waltz in it. Maybe I need to hear it again but I don't hear waltz. Definitely hear the gospel. One of the alternate versions even starts things off with a gospel organ.

[khansperac]

I guess music experts recognize the waltz beat. But Diana’s lead vocal, the background voices of A&S, and Val’s piano playing are gospel-ish.

[reese]

Diana herself referred to REACH OUT as a waltz in her interview for THE MOTOWN STORY boxed set in 1970. She said that was one of the reasons Berry didn't want to release it but it became a "good enough smash" as a debut single for her solo career. For years, she mentioned it was her desire to release it and Berry objected. Then all of sudden in MOTOWN THE MUSICAL, Berry says that it was his idea to release it and Diana objected.

In any event, I think it is a great recording. Diana's vocal is fantastic. I don't know if I would have released it as her debut. Then again, besides AIN'T NO MOUNTAIN HIGH ENOUGH, I don't know what else on her debut album might have been single-worthy. I might have gone back to the Bones Howe material and released TIME AND LOVE and/or STONEY END.

[Ollie9]

Has anyone on this forum ever danced the waltz to "Reach Out And Touch"?. If so was it easy?.
I have never ever thought the song hada waltz tempo, just a tinge of gospel. I agree with RanaRan in that Diana sings every word like she really means it.......A Diana classic.

[Ollie9]

Think about the period of time it was released in. While certainly the promo around the song being Diana's last with the Supremes didn't hurt, this was also at the height of the Vietnam War. I can imagine that this song's lyrics were very real for those with loved ones serving overseas or even with some who had perished. I think it was destined to hit #1 as Diana Ross and the Supremes or simply as Diana Ross. Even without the war element, "Someday" as the debut single would've probably been viewed by the public as Diana's goodbye to the Supremes anyway.

Yea, a good point. I had never thought of the song like that before. I was forgetting about that time capsule and what a time of upheaval it really was.
Owing to it's plaintive lyrics and the fact that it was such a huge hit, the song might have achieved the same as the 40's second world war song "We'll Meet Again" by Vera Lynn in bringing hope and comfort to the families of loved ones whose sons were out there fighting. With that in mind it could indeed have ended up a huge solo hit for Diana.

[Ollie9]

Testing 123. Please ignore. Had a glitch with above post and almost lost it. Ended up with two messages.:mad:

[daviddh]

This is a true classic.looooove this song.
Sad but yet uplifting. To bad they didn't get together again but this song is one of my favorites and one of their biggest hits

[daviddh]

I would like to point out a few artists complained about working with the Bee Gees. I think it was Kenny Rogers who stated he was told to copy Barry's demo but then one of the brothers complained he didn't make his own. He said he followed orders from Barry. I can see confusion there and I would have listened to Barry also.he seemed in charge. I think this was the same with Diana but the only complaint I heard was she turned down Islands in the Stream.
I do think Chain Reaction was the last song recorded for the album.
I would love to see Diana record with Barry again.he has written some great songs. Wonder if there were out takes from the Eaten Alive sessions.

[marv2]

I would like to point out a few artists complained about working with the Bee Gees. I think it was Kenny Rogers who stated he was told to copy Barry's demo but then one of the brothers complained he didn't make his own. He said he followed orders from Barry. I can see confusion there and I would have listened to Barry also.he seemed in charge. I think this was the same with Diana but the only complaint I heard was she turned down Islands in the Stream.
I do think Chain Reaction was the last song recorded for the album.
I would love to see Diana record with Barry again.he has written some great songs. Wonder if there were out takes from the Eaten Alive sessions.

Davidh, what memories does the song "Someday, We'll Be Together" hold for you?

[marv2]

Has anyone on this forum ever danced the waltz to "Reach Out And Touch"?. If so was it easy?.
I have never ever thought the song hada waltz tempo, just a tinge of gospel. I agree with RanaRan in that Diana sings every word like she really means it.......A Diana classic.

On the 1970 collection "The Motown Story" [[that I have somewhere), Diana Ross says something about it having a waltz tempo or something close to that.

[marv2]

Diana herself referred to REACH OUT as a waltz in her interview for THE MOTOWN STORY boxed set in 1970. She said that was one of the reasons Berry didn't want to release it but it became a "good enough smash" as a debut single for her solo career. For years, she mentioned it was her desire to release it and Berry objected. Then all of sudden in MOTOWN THE MUSICAL, Berry says that it was his idea to release it and Diana objected.

In any event, I think it is a great recording. Diana's vocal is fantastic. I don't know if I would have released it as her debut. Then again, besides AIN'T NO MOUNTAIN HIGH ENOUGH, I don't know what else on her debut album might have been single-worthy. I might have gone back to the Bones Howe material and released TIME AND LOVE and/or STONEY END.

That is exactly right Reese. I just posted something similar to what you're saying before seeing your post here.

[daviddh]

Someday we'll be together is a classic.
Huge amount of airplay.
My memories are of the Ed Sullivan show n Hollywood palace.
In real life.....Viet nam was in full swing...
I remember Diana saying at some point ...let's bring all our boys back home.
That has always stuck in my head

[marv2]

Someday we'll be together is a classic.
Huge amount of airplay.
My memories are of the Ed Sullivan show n Hollywood palace.
In real life.....Viet nam was in full swing...
I remember Diana saying at some point ...let's bring all our boys back home.
That has always stuck in my head

I remember we were having another really rough winter that year. The weather was horrible. I remember my brother and I would leave the radio on overnight in our room. This song, Eddie Holman's "Hey There Lonely Girl", R.B. Greaves "Take A Letter Maria" and the Originals "Baby I'm For Real" were very popular at the time and I remember them playing it seemed day and night.

[detmotownguy]

I remember we were having another really rough winter that year. The weather was horrible. I remember my brother and I would leave the radio on overnight in our room. This song, Eddie Holman's "Hey There Lonely Girl", R.B. Greaves "Take A Letter Maria" and the Originals "Baby I'm For Real" were very popular at the time and I remember them playing it seemed day and night.

Marv I remember that either WKNR or CKLW played Nathan Jones at a certain time every night. In fact, it was abt 8 pm ish. I used hide the radio under the pillow and listen well into the night lol! The timing was somewhat predictable for many of the songs.

[marv2]

Marv I remember that either WKNR or CKLW played Nathan Jones at a certain time every night. In fact, it was abt 8 pm ish. I used hide the radio under the pillow and listen well into the night lol! The timing was somewhat predictable for many of the songs.

Those stations united ALL Michigan kids! We all did the same things! LOL!

[detmotownguy]

Even in Dearborn! lol

[marv2]

Even in Dearborn! lol

Well yeah! Dearborn is in Michigan the last time I checked. Right off Michigan Avenue. LOL! Even Toledo use to be a part of Michigan.

[detmotownguy]

Mary also recorded a live version for her "I Am Changing" CD:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuW2GV1O2Fo

Perfection!

[RanRan79]

I think reach out is a great song. It is a legendary song in popular music. It’s funny to see so many people reference the waltz tempo now. I don’t recall people discussing it until it was mentioned in one of those books. I always felt it was more gospel. Not denying what it may be, but when I hear it, I don’t think waltz.

The song itself is definitely rooted in gospel, but the beat is a waltz. Pay attention to Diana at Caesar's in 79 when she's in the audience getting the entire crowd involved with the song. There comes a point where she attempts to hold clapping class for the rhythmically challenged and she tells them to do a waltz clap.:D

[RanRan79]

I hear gospel too. I don't get people who think hear a waltz in it. Maybe I need to hear it again but I don't hear waltz. Definitely hear the gospel. One of the alternate versions even starts things off with a gospel organ.

The style of the song itself is gospel/r&b. We're not saying that the overall sound is folky. Lol

[RanRan79]

In any event, I think it is a great recording. Diana's vocal is fantastic. I don't know if I would have released it as her debut. Then again, besides AIN'T NO MOUNTAIN HIGH ENOUGH, I don't know what else on her debut album might have been single-worthy. I might have gone back to the Bones Howe material and released TIME AND LOVE and/or STONEY END.

"Aint No Mountain" should've been a no brainer as the first single. Had any of the Bones Howe material made the album, "Stoney End" would've gotten a vote for me as a single. Not sure how well it would have done r&b but I think it could've been a huge hit pop for her. But I agree, there really isn't much to consider single wise from the first outing.

[RanRan79]

I would like to point out a few artists complained about working with the Bee Gees. I think it was Kenny Rogers who stated he was told to copy Barry's demo but then one of the brothers complained he didn't make his own. He said he followed orders from Barry. I can see confusion there and I would have listened to Barry also.he seemed in charge. I think this was the same with Diana but the only complaint I heard was she turned down Islands in the Stream.
I do think Chain Reaction was the last song recorded for the album.
I would love to see Diana record with Barry again.he has written some great songs. Wonder if there were out takes from the Eaten Alive sessions.

Artists are often temperamental by nature. Also when you get creative people in a room with the expectation to collaborate, for many of them there is bound to be some issues. Everyone has a vision and they all want a say. This is par for the course. Diana, the Bee Gees, and a million others are not the exceptions, they are the rule. Big deal.

[TheMotownManiac]

I agree. It was the perfect farewell song for Diana. Sombre, wistful and emotional. It worked far better as the final DRATS single rather than Diana's debut. A perfect way to move from one decade to another.
I still maintain that Reach out and touch was a great choice for Diana's solo debut. Had she performed it on Ed Sullivan as originally planned i am sure it would have gone top 10.

I agree that reach out and touch, had it been worked on television, would have gone top five. It made it into the top 10 both on record world and cash box… That said the sales were there way ahead of the amount of airplay it was get it… That that problem with the record in my opinion is that it was a little bit too much gospel, pop, and attempted R&B which made it impossible to get into all the playlists of any specific genre. If she had done it on a couple TV shows early in it’s launch, it would’ve gotten a lot more ads on pop and R&B stations and I think would’ve hit much bigger. Also, if it had been released right on the heels of someday we’ll be together, like up the ladder wise, the momentum of that record would certainly have helped. All of that being sad, I think the record needed a little work and a little more finesse for Rosses first solo record. The break in the song where the andantes are Bah Bah bahing around Could have been put to much better use and made it a much better record, and I absolutely hate the introduction. I do like her vocal and I like the record I just don’t love it to death. Up the latter Was the ideal launch for the Supremes, ross’ launch was not as good. Of course it’s interesting to think about the fact that her real solo debut record was someday we’ll be together and, I had of been released shortly after January 14, 1970, it would have sword to number one on the sentiment of the song alone…… Not to mention the fact that it’s a fabulous record. I’ve always wondered how she felt about that…

PS it’s highly unlikely that you know who is going to admit anything that would indicate that he was incorrect, exaggerating, lying, or mistaken.....I’ve been reading his comments for over two decades and this is one leopard that will never change his spots. It’s interesting, but this is a trait that he shares with his idol and will literally say anything without really thinking about whether or not it’s true… Most recently when she Claimed to have invented the moniker “no-hit Supremes “I just don’t think she even thinks about it the stuff just comes out

[TheMotownManiac]

The is the more commonly known version and the one I remember from the radio:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXGz8i0I2L0

that is close to the original mix,But it is not it…… This is:

https://youtu.be/KN8WvH8GafI

[TheMotownManiac]

Sorry but that versions one hot mess.

she can sing a lot of songs as well, but for me, this is not one of them… It’s more like she’s singing at the song then in the song… But marvelous is right as the audience is really into this as opposed to the other version that he posted where the people like stop clapping as she leaves the stage and the MC has to come out to dead silence.

[Ollie9]

I would like to point out a few artists complained about working with the Bee Gees. I think it was Kenny Rogers who stated he was told to copy Barry's demo but then one of the brothers complained he didn't make his own. He said he followed orders from Barry. I can see confusion there and I would have listened to Barry also.he seemed in charge. I think this was the same with Diana but the only complaint I heard was she turned down Islands in the Stream.
I do think Chain Reaction was the last song recorded for the album.
I would love to see Diana record with Barry again.he has written some great songs. Wonder if there were out takes from the Eaten Alive sessions.

I seem to remember Barry was meant to be annoyed with Diana because she had not learnt lyrics and jetted off to present at an award ceremony midway through recording.
When working on the ross 83 album, producer Gary Katz is also quoted as saying he was stunned by Diana's seeming lack of commitment.
My take on it is that during the 80's, Diana had her fingers in so many pies that she was rushing here,there and everywhere. Had she slowed down a little and committed more to her music, we might have ended up with that classic rca album after all

[Ollie9]

Perfection!

This is a really good version. Mary does not oversing it for a change with her voice sounding rich,warm and inviting. She also blends perfectly with her background singers. As this is the final song on the Farewell album, this was indeed the last song she recorded with Diana. Credit where credit is due.

[Bluebrock]

I seem to remember Barry was meant to be annoyed with Diana because she had not learnt lyrics and jetted off to present at an award ceremony midway through recording.
When working on the ross 83 album, producer Gary Katz is also quoted as saying he was stunned by Diana's seeming lack of commitment.
My take on it is that during the 80's, Diana had her fingers in so many pies that she was rushing here,there and everywhere. Had she slowed down a little and committed more to her music, we might have ended up with that classic rca album after all
You are correct when you say she had her finger in many pies. It is a pity she didn't eat some of those pies! She was working so hard whilst trying to be a hands on mother. She was making so much money but neglecting herself in other ways. She should have taken time out and not rushed into recording when she was ill prepared for it. It was not until the late 80's that she was able to relax more and let someone who had her best interests at heart take some of the strain from her. Better late than never i suppose.

[daviddh]

Thanks for clarifying that Blue....
Diana was trying to take control and probably used to Motown handling everything. Being in charge was new to her but overwhelming. She still needed guidance but I think you clarified the 80s for us.domething I had not thought of till now

[144man]

^144 you bring up a very valid point. We've all been guilty of egging on [[and sometime even engaging) in inappropriate behavior.

I think all of us should step back, exhale and refocus ourselves on the music and the Supremes. Let's engage in POSITIVE dialog and avoid mud slinging - either to the girls or to Soulful members. And if someone DOES make an inappropriate comment, you can always block them or simply ignore their post.

144 - i do hope you don't abandon the forum. we've had too many members slip away over the years. the only way these work and provide value is if we share and dialog. I hope you'll stay around :)

I would never abandon the forum, but I do tend to not post on Supremes' topics as much as I would like to because the threads can become unpleasant so very quickly.

It should be possible to debate with people holding opposing views as long we concentrate on the issues and never make it personal or attack the other members. What I'm asking for is a little bit of self-restraint.

[144man]

The original version is not that good. Sometimes original versions are not as juiced as they appear to be lol

I don't think I heard the original version till the mid-60s, and it sounded dated even then. The further passing of years have not been kind to the record.

[144man]

I guess music experts recognize the waltz beat. But Diana’s lead vocal, the background voices of A&S, and Val’s piano playing are gospel-ish.

I remember Ralph posting that it wasn't a waltz, but it was 6/8 tempo, but the difference was too technical for me to understand.

[144man]

And I shan't lose a wink of sleep...

I'm surprised you've taken the trouble to post that, as I was more or less agreeing with what you had said earlier.

[sup_fan]

I remember Ralph posting that it wasn't a waltz, but it was 6/8 tempo, but the difference was too technical for me to understand.

yeah it is a technical aspect.

A waltz would typically be 3/4 time meaning there are 3 beats to a measure and the quarter note gets the beat. And often the 1st beat is dominate one of the measure.
1-2-3, 1-2-3. or think of the "Dancing" segment in Hello Dolly. There's a sway feeling to it.

in 6/8 time there are 6 beats to the measure and the 8th note gets the beat.

with Reach Out And Touch, they're basically doubling the beats per measure which gives more sense of urgency. True, ROAT differs from other waltz as there's syncopation to the beat and much more gospel influence.

And while i've not seen the original scoring and music written by A&S and arranged by Paul Riser, all of the sheet music that you can find for ROAT online is 3/4. that could be just to simplify things for basic piano music.

[RanRan79]

I seem to remember Barry was meant to be annoyed with Diana because she had not learnt lyrics and jetted off to present at an award ceremony midway through recording.
When working on the ross 83 album, producer Gary Katz is also quoted as saying he was stunned by Diana's seeming lack of commitment.
My take on it is that during the 80's, Diana had her fingers in so many pies that she was rushing here,there and everywhere. Had she slowed down a little and committed more to her music, we might have ended up with that classic rca album after all

Wasn't Diana's mother ill with cancer during this period also? One has to factor in the toll that cancer takes on the family of one stricken with it. I know from personal experience.

[RanRan79]

I'm surprised you've taken the trouble to post that, as I was more or less agreeing with what you had said earlier.

When you said hate all, I assumed you were referring to everyone. My apologies for misunderstanding.

I would caution you not to waste hate on these people. While they obviously get on my nerves and some things can make your head spin, like the fact that I just blocked someone I never thought I would have to block, pity is a more desirable feeling than hate. These forum antics suggests deeper issues going on off screen, you know what I mean?

Again, please accept my apology.

[Ollie9]

Wasn't Diana's mother ill with cancer during this period also? One has to factor in the toll that cancer takes on the family of one stricken with it. I know from personal experience.

Ernestine past away in October 84. From what i have read her family were not aware of just how sick she was until quite late into her illness.
The fact that Diana used songs left over from the WDFFIL sessions to comprise her second album is further indication that at that point in time she was more interested in making money then taking the time to be creative with her music. .
The Katz recording sessions would also not have coincided with her mother's illness.

[jobeterob]

I remember Diana once saying there was a period when she got big headed and I think it was the period after Endless Love, the $20 m, and Central Park - like 1983 to 1986

[Bluebrock]

Ernestine past away in October 84. From what i have read her family were not aware of just how sick she was until quite late into her illness.
The fact that Diana used songs left over from the WDFFIL sessions to comprise her second album is further indication that at that point in time she was more interested in making money then taking the time to be creative with her music. .
The Katz recording sessions would also not have coincided with her mother's illness.

That is not quite true Ollie but i will not elaborate out of respect for the family.

[marv2]

I had never heard the original 61 version before. Not to inspiring lol.
I have no memories of the song when first released as i was to young. I do think quite possibly that it might not have been as successful had it been Diana's first solo single.
The plaintive, wistful lyrics and the fact that it was the Supremes last single together lent the song further pathos. Had it been released at a later date it might not have had the same impact.

I agree. It made a very good "Farewell" record for "Diana Ross & the Supremes". I also believe "You Are the Heart of Me" was a great "Farewell" to The Supremes when Mary Wilson left and the group disbanded.

[RanRan79]

Ernestine past away in October 84. From what i have read her family were not aware of just how sick she was until quite late into her illness.
The fact that Diana used songs left over from the WDFFIL sessions to comprise her second album is further indication that at that point in time she was more interested in making money then taking the time to be creative with her music. .
The Katz recording sessions would also not have coincided with her mother's illness.

I know she died in 84 but I wasn't sure how long she was actually ill. I recall reading in probably CHMR that Diana was touring and flying between performances and Detroit to be with her sick mother but I couldn't remember how long that went on.

No argument from me about Diana taking the money over the creative. I think that may have been one of the effects of what she endured at Motown, knowing how much money she had been robbed of. I can imagine that when it became clear that she was not the wealthy woman she thought herself to be and that Motown was to blame, she probably thought about Florence and how "easy" it may have seemed to go from having it all to suddenly having nothing. Add to that the fact that Diana had already been poor in her life, there may have been this Scarlet O'Hara moment..."God as my witness, I'll never go hungry again!"...and when Motown refused to pay her what she felt she was worth, took RCA's 50 mil and ran, constantly looking for the next big payoff, with the creative element an afterthought, if a thought at all.

Reminds me of the current state of hiphop, where these "artists" see the big buck payday but have little to no interest in the creative art form. The music becomes a means to an end [[usually to escape poverty) rather than the driving force for creative expression that ultimately speaks to the masses and makes some money. If Diana were a young woman today, her lack of creativity musically might pay off. But in the 80s, Diana was a woman who had given the world of music 20 years of largely quality material, even when the songs didn't always do that well. She could go from "I Want A Guy" to "Where Did Our Love Go", but she wasn't supposed to go from "I'm Coming Out" to "So Close". Yikes!

But she clearly thought that's where the money was. She was wrong but it didn't stop her from doing it again. [["Up Front" anyone? Yes, I'm not picking on "Pieces Of Ice" for this one.:p)

[RanRan79]

I remember Diana once saying there was a period when she got big headed and I think it was the period after Endless Love, the $20 m, and Central Park - like 1983 to 1986

She may have said that, but I'm betting on the side of the sources who might argue that her big headed period started long before the 1980s.

[RanRan79]

I agree. It made a very good "Farewell" record for "Diana Ross & the Supremes". I also believe "You Are the Heart of Me" was a great "Farewell" to The Supremes when Mary Wilson left and the group disbanded.

I kind of thought that too when I first heard "You Are the Heart Of Me" and knowing it was on the b side to "Let Yourself Go". But I really consider "Let Yourself Go" as the Supremes final swan song and while not what I would've released as the final cut if I were trying for success, lyrically and feel wise I think it's a great last cut, a song about letting loose and feeling good, rather than a love song or a breakup song.

Sound wise, the Supremes last single was excellent, both A side and B side.

[TNSUN]

"Someday We'll Be Together" is a phenomenal song. The musical overture in this song is epic in the history of popular music!

[PeaceNHarmony]

"Someday We'll Be Together" is a phenomenal song. The musical overture in this song is epic in the history of popular music!Agreed. All kinds o' brilliant.

[vgalindo]

"Someday We'll Be Together" is a phenomenal song. The musical overture in this song is epic in the history of popular music!
I agree. It’s probably in my top ten most favorite songs.