ABSTRACT This article examines how Diana Ross and the Supremes reshaped Black womanhood in mainstream music through Motown’s focus on elegance and visibility. While Motown is noted for fostering racial integration, less emphasis has been placed on the Supremes’ strategic use of glamour to reframe narratives about Black femininity. Their prominent television appearances and refined image positioned them as cultural pioneers, creating new opportunities for Black women in the music industry. Through historical analysis and contemporary examples, this study highlights the Supremes’ lasting influence on modern artists such as Ari Lennox, Olivia Dean, and Chloe x Halle, who draw inspiration from their aesthetic and musical legacy. Motown’s structured artist development significantly shaped mainstream views of Black artists while navigating respectability politics. By showcasing the Supremes’ impact, this research adds to discussions on race, gender, and representation in the music industry. Their success not only opened doors for future Black women artists but also transformed industry standards, promoting greater artistic freedom and visibility in today’s pop and R&B.
Olivia Davis (Fri,) studied this question.