The Supremes' History

The Supremes, The History Of The Legend

The original trio of "THE SUPREMES" consisted of Florence Ballard, Diana Ross, and Mary Wilson. In 1967 Florence left the group and was replaced by Cindy Birdsong. Diana Ross departed in January 1970 and Jean Terrell replaced her. In early 1972 Lynda Laurence was chosen to replace Cindy. In October of 1973 both Jean and Lynda departed, Cindy returned and Scherrie Payne became the trio's final lead singer. In 1976 Cindy was replaced by the final Supreme, Susaye Greene. June 12th 1977 The Supremes (Scherrie Payne, Mary Wilson, and Susaye Greene) performed their final farewell performance and the Supremes were officially disbanded.

The above artwork is from the 2011 Supremes' release on the Universal/Motown Label "Let Yourself Go, The 70's Albums, VOL. 2: 1974-1977, THE FINAL SESSIONS.

The Supremes' Family Tree

1961-1967: Diana Ross, Mary Wilson, Florence Ballard

1967-1970: Diana Ross, Mary Wilson, Cindy Birdsong

1970-1972: Jean Terrell, Mary Wilson, Cindy Birdsong

1972-1973: Jean Terrell, Mary Wilson, Lynda Laurence

1973-1976: Scherrie Payne, Mary Wilson, Cindy Birdsong

1976-1977: Scherrie Payne, Mary Wilson, Susaye Greene

2000: Diana Ross, Scherrie Payne, Lynda Laurence

Top Row (L-R):
Florence Ballard, Scherrie Payne, Diana Ross, and Susaye Greene
Bottom Row (L-R):
Lynda Laurence, Mary Wilson, Cindy Birdsong, and Jean Terrell

The photo above is from the cover of The Supremes "20th Anniversary" album released by Motown Records in 1981. It details the eight ladies who recorded and performed in the legendary group from 1962-1977. No other individuals can truthfully claim to be a member of The legendary Motown recording trio, THE SUPREMES.