American music legend Diana Ross will celebrate her 75th birthday on March 26. With a career spanning more than 50 years, we take a look at what we consider to be her five most iconic hits.
By Jaimee Taylor
Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, 1970
Although the song was originally a hit for Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell in 1967, Ross soon put her own stamp on it. With its spoken-word sections and dramatic breakdowns, the song launched her solo career.
Upside Down, 1980
Written and produced by Chic’s Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards, Upside Down is one of disco music’s biggest hits. A strong chorus and catchy lyrics make this a lively, fun song.
I’m Coming Out, 1980
Another Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards brainchild, the song has long held significance in the LGBT+ community as a celebration of accepting who you are. But Diana Ross superfan Antonio Walker says that the lyrics can relate to anyone: “It means it’s time to be the best you and show the world how great you can be.”
Baby Love, 1964
Although a remake of the Supremes’ first single, Where Did Our Love Go, this was the song that proved that the girl group was more than a one-hit wonder. The lyrics are of heartbreak, despite the sweet sound created by the perfect harmonies.
Chain Reaction, 1985
With the Bee Gees on backing vocals and the fantastic key changes at the end, this song is definitely a crowd-pleaser. Diana Ross tribute act, Shola Kaye, says: “Diana’s lasting legacy is of style and class. A true diva.”
With songs like these, it seems safe to say that after all these years Diana Ross still reigns supreme.
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