The Story of The Supremes was conceived by Mary Wilson, a founding member of the singing trio, in collaboration with the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Mary Wilson said: “I have kept these dresses in storage for over 30 years, it was my dream that that one day I could share them with the world. I am delighted that they are going on display at the V&A and on tour around the UK.”
Set against a background of the American civil rights movement and the rapid rise of Motown Records this exhibition will explore how The Supremes played a critical role in changing racial perceptions and how they continue to influence the performers of today.
No Early Success
At first the band, consisting of Barbara Martin, Florence Ballard, Mary Wilson and Diana Ross, was known as the Primettes. Early recordings such as I Want a Guy and Buttered Popcorn were unsuccessful. Their next three singles just about made it into the lower end of the Hot 100. The group almost disbanded in1962, with Diana Ross going to work in a café and Barbara Martin leaving to get married. However, their perseverance paid off and The Supremes are now regarded as the most commercially successful female group of the 1960s. Between 1964 and 1969 they recorded 12 US number1 hits. They met Her Majesty the Queen Mother in 1968 and appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show at least 15 times.
Dressed to Impress
Wherever The Supremes appeared their costumes always left a lasting impression. More than 50 outfits will show how the band's image was uniquely styled by the American record producer Berry Gordy, and his colleagues at Motown Records, to appeal to the widest possible audience.
Garments, worn both on and off stage, from their early outfits to the most glamorous beaded costumes are on display. Visitors can see the black rhinestone-encrusted velvet gown that Diana Ross wore to her farewell performance as well as the stunning orange beaded dresses both designed by Bob Mackie, nicknamed the Sultan of Sequins and the Rajah of Rhinestones. The Tropical Lilac gowns designed by Michael Nicola in 1972 are also exhibited. When The Supremes performed for the Queen Mother they wore magnificently beaded dresses designed by Michael Travis. According to Mary Wilson each dress weighed an amazing 30 pounds!
Role Models of the 1960s
The position of The Supremes both as 1960s role models and stars of Motown Records will be explored through original photographs, television footage, video presentations and magazine spreads. The group enjoyed unprecedented popularity, having appeared frequently on television and radio shows around the world. Their attitudes helped to destroy racial barriers during the time of the American Civil Rights movement.
50th Anniversary of Motown Records
The exhibition also explores the history of Motown Records (also known as Tamla-Motown), established primarily to feature African-American artists. The company, ready to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2009, has become the largest independent black-owned record label in the United States. A reconstruction of the mixing desk used in Recording Studio A at Hitstown USA, Motown's headquarters, is on display at the V&A.
The Supreme's Enduring Influence
Costumes worn by the all-girl band Destiny's Child will demonstrate how The Supremes' artistic legacy continues to influence 21st-century recording groups. In a video interview, the television and radio presenter Trevor Nelson will discuss today's girl bands.
The Story of The Supremes will run from 13th May to 19th October 2008. Further information can be obtained from the Victoria & Albert Museum. The show will subsequently appear at the Grundy Gallery, Blackpool, from November 2008 to January 2009. The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery will host the show from March to June 2009, followed by Bristol's British Empire and Commonwealth Museum will show the exhibition from July to August 2009.
Frances Spiegel - Frances Spiegel, B.A. Hons. (Open)., Dip.Eur.Hum., read Art History/European Modern History at the Open University.
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