This album is undeniably a sign of things to come in Ross’s solo career, blending pop, soul, and funk into a signature sound that would evolve in the years to follow
If you’re a fan of Diana Ross, especially her post-Supremes work, this album offers a fascinating look at her transition and the beginning of her dominance as a solo artist. If your are a DJ, play it from the beginning and ask the light jokey to power on his full equipment on the chorus ! Best part of this record is the B side, in my opinion. The release is a promo copy of a perfect mix for disco music lovers, but it might be pretty hard to get, meanwhile you still can find a regular 33 ⅓ RPM…
Few words about the record
Released in 1975, this album by Diana Ross & The Supremes marks a transitional moment in the legendary trio’s career. While the Supremes had evolved significantly from their Motown heyday, this release highlights Diana Ross’s solo aspirations, as well as the shifting dynamics within the group. The album features two distinct segments: a medley of their classic hits and two amazing tracks that reflect Ross’s growing influence as an individual artist… No One Gets The Prize, introduces a more mature sound. This song leans into the soul and R&B stylings that Diana Ross would further explore in her solo career. The song’s lyrics, which reflect themes of love and emotional introspection, have a touch of drama and sophistication that was becoming a hallmark of Ross’s solo work. The track is dynamic and polished, and Ross’s vocal performance is as compelling as ever, though it’s clear that she was stepping into a new chapter, leaving the Supremes’ pop sensibilities behind.
The Boss is the real standout of the album. A bold, funky anthem, the track exudes confidence and showcases Ross’s full-fledged embrace of a more assertive, contemporary sound. The funky rhythm section, coupled with Ross’s commanding vocal delivery, creates a sense of empowerment. Lyrically, the song was ahead of its time, with Ross proclaiming her independence and strength. It would later go on to become one of her most iconic solo songs. The production is tight, with the orchestration and brass sections giving the song a punchy, high-energy vibe that still holds up well today. It’s a defining moment on the album and a preview of the direction Diana Ross would continue to explore in the years to come.
The album kicks off with a medley of the Supremes’ classic songs, such as Where Did Our Love Go, Baby Love and Stop! In The Name of Love. This medley is a nostalgia-packed celebration of the trio’s golden era. While it’s a well-meaning attempt to honor the past, it feels somewhat perfunctory. By this point, Diana Ross was firmly embarking on her solo career, and the energy that once defined the Supremes’ vocal interplay is noticeably absent. The medley showcases Ross’s iconic voice but doesn’t quite capture the magic of the original Supremes lineup. The production is polished, but the arrangement feels a little too calculated, as if trying to balance past glory with present-day identity !
