Diana Ross and the Supremes performed music in a wide variety of styles over their decade of success. In this clip, the supergroup sings Mitch Leigh's 'The Impossible Dream' on 'The Ed Sullivan Show' in 1969.
Ed introduces the ladies broadcasting live from Detroit, which happens to be the home of Motown Records. The famous studio 'Hitsville, USA' run by Berry Gordy was where the Supremes started their recording career.
The ladies appear in stunning gold-sequined, full-length gowns. They are not doing their typical choreographed movements due to the style of this song. There is a starry background behind them and a smokey white floor beneath their feet. The Supremes are seen using microphones on stands, which is different from most of their performances.
"The Impossible Dream (The Quest)' was composed by Mitch Leigh and Joe Darion for the 1965 Broadway musical 'Man of La Mancha.' The lead character Don Quixote sings powerful lyrics about the purpose of one's quest.
The backing band cannot be seen on camera, but they do an excellent job performing the music. Even though this song is from a musical, the band gives it a distinctive Motown feel. The arrangement adds a little r&b to the performance.
Many famous artists have recorded their own version of the song. Jack Jones had the most success, peaking at number 35 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. 'The Impossible Dream' was also recorded by Frank Sinatra, The Temptations, and even Cher.
Leigh's song was inducted into the Songwriter's Hall of Fame, and Diana Ross delivers her version with grace and power. 1969 was the last year the Supremes performed together before Diana's solo career, but they left an incredible impression on the music world!
Remember when Diana Ross and the Supremes performing 'The Impossible Dream' on The Ed Sullivan Show was everywhere? You'll find plenty of it on Amazon. That's where we earn a bit, keeping the lights on.
