Diana Ross: A Biography

J. Randy Taraborrelli chronicles the life and career of music icon Diana Ross, from her early days in Detroit through her rise with The Supremes and emergence as a solo superstar. The biography draws from interviews with Ross herself, along with family members, friends, and music industry figures who were part of her journey. The book examines Ross's complex relationships with Berry Gordy Jr., her fellow Supremes, and the many other key figures in her personal and professional life. Taraborrelli documents the behind-the-scenes dynamics at Motown Records, the group's meteoric success, and Ross's eventual transition to a solo career in music and film. The narrative covers Ross's later years and continued impact on popular culture, while addressing both her triumphs and controversies. This biography provides context for Ross's influence as an artist and businesswoman who helped reshape the entertainment industry. Beyond the rise-to-fame story, this work explores themes of ambition, sacrifice, and the price of success in American popular culture. The author presents an unvarnished look at both the rewards and costs of pursuing superstardom.

Readers describe this biography as well-researched and detailed, with access to over 400 interviews including Diana Ross herself. Many note it presents a balanced view of Ross's career and personality rather than taking sides. Readers appreciated: - Behind-the-scenes details about The Supremes - Coverage of business dealings and contract negotiations - Exploration of Ross's complex relationships with Berry Gordy and fellow Supremes Common criticisms: - Too much focus on negative aspects of Ross's personality - Some readers found the tone judgmental - Repetitive passages and editing issues A recurring theme in reviews is that while Ross comes across as talented and determined, the book also reveals her difficult behavior and treatment of others. As one Amazon reviewer noted: "Shows both her drive for excellence and her occasional ruthlessness." Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (2,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (280+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.3/5 (40+ ratings)

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📚 Diana Ross refused to assist with or authorize this biography, but author J. Randy Taraborrelli spent 15 years researching her life through interviews with over 400 people who knew her personally or professionally. 🎵 The book reveals that Berry Gordy initially wanted Diana Ross to play Dorothy in "The Wiz" film adaptation when she was still in her early 20s, but she declined. Years later, at age 33, she actively pursued and won the role. 👗 According to the biography, Ross kept every stage costume she ever wore, maintaining a massive private collection in temperature-controlled storage units across multiple locations. 💫 The author details how Ross would often rehearse for 12-14 hours straight during her early Supremes days, demanding the same dedication from her fellow group members and earning the nickname "The General." 🎤 The biography documents Ross's historic 1983 Central Park concert, where she continued performing in torrential rain for 450,000 fans until conditions became too dangerous, then returned the next day to perform again for 350,000 people.