Founding member of Motown’s internationally-famed singing group, the Supremes, Mary Wilson, has passed away at 76.
Detroit loses another legend. Mary Wilson, the founder of the Supremes, has passed away suddenly in her home on Monday night, February 8th. Just two days prior, she had posted to her Youtube account stating her excitement for her solo project coming up that was due to be released closer to her birthday on March 6th.
Her legacy will continue on in Detroit, as she lay her singing roots there when she and the Supremes signed with Motown Records in 1961. She sang with the trio until they broke up in 1977, though some members of the group came and went as the years passed. Wilson remained a constant in the group as the only original member for a decade later. During those years, Wilson met and sang with fellow musicians like Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross, and Florence Ballard. The Supremes recorded 12 number one singles on the Billboard Top 100 during their career.
As a Motown original, their music has forever influenced R&B, hip-hop, and pop throughout the years, and has provided an influence for many contemporary artists.
Actress Viola Davis sent her condolences to the legendary singer in a tweet showing two images, one of Mary Davis currently, and one of her in the Supremes.
RIP Mary Wilson! Godspeed đź’› pic.twitter.com/An5bPm8nkR
— Viola Davis (@violadavis) February 9, 2021
Co-founder and friend Diana Ross tweeted out a heartfelt sympathy Tweet as well as stunning image of Mary Davis from her time in the Supremes.
I just woke up to this news , my condolences to you Mary’s family ,I am reminded that each day is a gift ,I have so many wonderful memories of our time together “The Supremes ” will live on ,in our hearts đź’•
— Ms. Ross (@DianaRoss) February 9, 2021
— Ms. Ross (@DianaRoss) February 9, 2021
Fellow contemporary singer, Patti LaBell also tweeted out in honor of Wilson.
I am deeply saddened by the passing of the beautiful Mary Wilson! She was a legend and an icon and what she contributed to the world cannot be overstated. I send my deepest condolences and prayers to her family, loved ones and fans. ❤ pic.twitter.com/NBNZ6d8qmO
— Patti LaBelle (@MsPattiPatti) February 9, 2021
Despite the heartbreak, her legacy will continue on through her music. We know we’ll be hearing a symphony in our houses over the next few weeks.
[featured image Jay Godwin, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons]