Many groups have graced the stage at ‘The Ed Sullivan Show.’ Diana Ross & The Supremes visited the TV icon at least 16 times over their career. In this 1968 clip, the girl supergroup performed ‘Forever Came Today.’
Diana Ross, Mary Wilson, and Cindy Birdsong appeared wearing full-length, black sequined gowns. Looking stunning as usual, the girls began their performance with Diana singing lead vocals.
The second verse featured a clapping part by the backup singers and choreographed swaying. The camera kept a tight shot on Diana’s face through a large portion of the song. Diana was out in front while the others remained in the background.
The song builds in intensity as strings accompany the catchy chorus of ‘Forever Came Today.’ As the music concludes, horns lead up to a crescendo of sound that ends with Diana’s big high note. Her arms outstretched, along with Mary and Cindy’s final pose.
The Supremes were a massive success for Motown records. This song reached number 28 on the Billboard Hot 100 pop singles chart in 1968. Although it wasn’t successful by the Supremes’ standards since the group had 12 number 1 hits in their career together.
The song was written by the famous power trio of Motown composers Holland-Dozier-Holland. Mary Wilson was not recorded on the single when Motown decided to use their own session singers. Around this time, Diana Ross was planning her future solo career.
The Supremes were one of the groups that put Motown on the map. They recorded at the famous studio, ‘Hitsville, USA’ under the tutelage of iconic producer Berry Gordy. This video clip proves why the Supremes were one of the hottest groups of the 60s and why their music still resonates today!
