John, Paul, George and Ringo VS Diana, Mary, Flo and Cindy

[jim aka jtigre99]

The Supremes were the most successful Female group in the 1960's and their popularity rivaled that of the Beatles. Looking at it, I am wondering about something that DIDN'T happen in the 1970's. Arguably, Paul and John were the focal points of the Beatles just as Diana was the focal point as the lead singer. Still as the 1970's progressed ALL of the Beatles had successful solo careers, even George and Ringo had successful solo careers. What is the difference with the Supremes? Was it sexism, racism, Motown, Diana needing to always the focal point? Surely, Florence was considered that she was arguably the most vocally talented technically so it wasn't a matter of talent. Her dismissal and her relationship with Motown may have had more to do with it than any question of her talent. Plus, she couldn't say she was a Supreme in her release agreement. Even Paul, John, George and Ringo clearly capitalized on their former band. Was her lack of success due to her very personal issues that came to light in the 1980's or was ABC recording her as a favor to Gordy to circumvent any success she may have[[rumored that she was told it was not a good job to switch labels and that ABC president was a golfing buddy of Gordy's). Mary had a beautiful voice ideally suited for ballads, rock and standards. She was arguably extremely beautiful with much stage charisma. Mary lacked confidence once Gordy told her she "couldn't sing". Her stunning contralto wasn't the best fit for the songs the Supremes were known for [[although she was co-lead on 3 singles in the 1970's). Her looks and voice could have easily been utilized by Motown to make her their flagship balladeer. Once solo, she was given dance music and released after 1 album. Clearly, by the 1980's, many labels didn't know her talent and she herself said many record execs wondered if she could sing. I think Motown singling out Diana so extensively did not help. Purely, they were all talented with charisma and voices. Cindy embodied glamour and was a good fit for the DRATS years. I simply think if Ringo Starr could have top 40 hits, why not Cindy Birdsong? Was Diana too much the focal point, did Motown push her too much as the only star in the Supremes? Clearly, Mary, Flo and Cindy [[not to mention Jean, Scherrie, Susaye & Lynda) all had the talent to become solo successes. I know it is a coulda woulda shoulda case, but it does make you make you wonder. Thoughts? And please be respectful of all 8 of these wonderful talents.