Very good documentation. One of the best about Florence. I remember after she left the group, I lost interest in the Supremes, it wasn't the same without her saucy personality. When she was fired, Motown actually tried to offer her a check for only $15,000 for her service. Florence knew that was bullshit and hired Leonard Baun, who sadly was an even bigger crook. One fact often overlooked is that Florence, in the last six or seven months of her life, was laid up with a badly broken leg. Lying immobile for months can create blood clots in the legs, and they can travel right up to the coronary arteries. I believe this is what happened. Florence complained during this time about chest pain and shortness of breath, but didn't seek medical attention. I can understand most 32 year old women don't die of heart attacks, but sadly that's what happened.
Florence wasn’t laying up with a broken leg for she was being interviewed quite a bit at that time for a friend of Flo’s called the Detroit News to see about the former Supreme who has hit hard times. Florence was not in good health and when she was experiencing being hot 🥵 all the time she didn’t look into why and had a heart attack.
@malcolmmarshall5946 💥👍💥👍💥👍💥👍💥👍💥👍💥👍 I read about Flo's broken leg from "A SLIP AND FALL ACCIDENT" and I STRONGLY AGREE that it could have been A GOOD POSSIBILITY for the Blood clots as well.
@@freddy8479 I won’t dispute what you said for anything is possible but Flo also suffered from high blood pressure and even though back then it wasn’t being monitored high cholesterol could’ve contributed.
@@brahmabkitty03 I was thinking the same thing. Berry Gordy probably doesn't want any of his evil skeleton's to get out about he mistreated Florence Ballard because he probably wanted her for himself.
@saundrabrown-umixs: Hopefully there will never be a film made about Florence Ballard. Imagine showing her as a VICTIM to benefit her daughters! There is no victory in that. Let this story be a cautionary tale. When what an artist wants suddenly changes, and somehow won't be rectified, that is called "creative differences." Continue your work, until you can get the information you need, to move on. Mary Wilson stayed. Why not Florence? Do not further victimize the late Miss Ballard, or her children.
@@saundrabrown-um1xs Remember, do not confuse the "Dreamgirls" story with Berry Gordy, Jr, and Florence Ballard. Berry is NOT Curtis, and Florence is not "Effie."
I lived in Detroit, and everyone knew what happened, and Berry had his own agenda. He wanted Diane for himself. It didn't matter that he was married, so he made her lead, and they started dating. Florence had the better voice, but Barry wouldn't let her sing, Then Diane got pregnant by Berry, and Florence was kick out the group with no money. Because they were on salary by Motown and she wasn't given any money after she left. The rest is history. I felt sorry for her and her family. She didn't deserve to be treated like this, and their was nothing she could do.
It breaks my heart her story, because Flo looks exactly like my mama! And my mama's name is Glenda just like Flo's middle name, it's eerie as hell! Even more weird is that my aunties treat my mama like the black sheep and she's the realest most down to earth one with a heart of Gold man! They made lil snide comments when my mom had to go on gov assistance, I was young but I remember that shit! That's why I can't stand those fake ass (Excuse my language and my rant, this triggered me) bitter old B****** till this day! Me and my sister made a pact, that when the day of my mama's passing, they WILL NOT be welcomed at her service! And we have kids now too, her (grandchildren) which are all grown. So trust, they are 20x worse than me and my sister! Flo reminds me so much of mama! But she's good now they can't take away her legacy! RIP Ms.Flo you WERE and will ALWAYS be THAT chick!!!!!
Cindyboren5641 You’re wrong on so many levels. First of all, The Supremes had been at Motown since 1961, and Diana and Berry’s romance didn’t start until 1965, and that was after the group had 5 consecutive number 1s, by which time Diana was already established as lead singer. Berry and Diana were BOTH single (he was divorced) The statement you made about Diana getting pregnant and Florence was kicked out of the group is just about as ridiculous as it gets. Diana left the group in January 1970, 2 years after Flo left. Diana and Berry’s daughter, Rhonda, was born August 14 1971, 18 months after Diana left. On leaving Motown, Flo was paid almost $140,000 in royalties and earnings. In today’s money that would be the equivalent of approximately $1.2ML It was Florence’s husband and lawyer who did her out of that money and had nothing to do with anyone else. All this shows that you actually know FA about the facts.
Wait we don't know berry Gordy or flo Diana Ross or Mary Wilson we what been told and there was shade somewhere Barry was known to cheat his artist as well but im not putting him down or up lifting him it's just that we forget we don't really know these people personally flo also has debts before getting that money and what I heard is that she really raped twice not once they don't give details on it and they mission it only every once and awhile so I don't argue these people from what they have said about Barry he was seeing both men and women and that flo might had been seeing Barry before Diana so we don't know accept that there is more to the story and somebody is not telling the complete truth Mary Wilson over the years changed her story about flo later and Florence Ballard did do interviews and would mission about how she felt and her faults as well so she just didn't blame Barry Gordy or her husband or lawyer I heard the interviews so I know Barry and diana wasn't inacent diana should not of been lead diana wasn't the prettiest one nore the best singer in the group mary and flo did have the best voices and stronger voices but sounded black diana had a less threatening voice softer and higher not loud or yelling or firm they did it with othere groups little anthany and the imperials franky limond and the teenager high pitched but not threatening commercial to name a few
@@michaelmitchell5098 ALL the Spremes sounded good! Ross had a distinctive and sometimes ethereal voice, and the ability to shape-shift and morph into varied versions of beauty. That's where the star power was
In those times, rape & depression were not reslly discussed as they are now. As in the case of domestic violence, it wasn't talked about. Fly very high, Ms. Ballsrd🕊 You're soaring in the skies with yr good buddy, Mary Wilson. 🌈🎶🎤🎶 Again, rest easy. You are.not forgotten. RIP 🙏
@@AlmondJoie In reality, you don't know what happens after you die. But, I will say this, hopefully people will get what they need in this LIFE to create and succeed with their dreams. It is now that the "good news" is spread. The young lady should have protected what was dear to her in LIFE....and that was to sing, to entertain. Nobody's coming at the end of her life to even the score.
@@michellekirkendall818 As a follower of Christ and a believer in the Word of God (the KJV Bible), scripture is clear that the dead don't know anything, and that even our love, envy, and hatred all perishes when we die. Psalm 115:17 says that the dead praise not the Lord, neither any who go down into silence. Nevertheless, people are still free to believe whatever they want. But only GOD has spoken the TRUTH. He is not a man that He should lie. God bless.
@@AlmondJoie It is good to read scripture. However, do avoid the "King James Version." It is re-translated, and King James was part of a deviant, alternative lifestyle. The beautiful Miss Florence Ballard should be entertaining us today. Made in the image of God, she should have sought out persons within the industry, who could help. She made a poor decision, and it cost her dearly.
@@AlmondJoie God created perfect beings. He's not "out there" somewhere, and you have to find him. He's already within you. Miss Florence Ballard was given a brain, conscience, intuition and clairvoyance. She had the gift of singing. Many people would feel lucky to have been in her shoes. If she had known what was already within her, she could have gone directly to the therapist, God had made to help her.
In many ways she was "the Supreme". Once she was ousted from the group the way she was, that group was never the same. Her replacement Cindy Birdsong had a good voice, but it didn't match the intensity of Florence Ballard at all. Cindy Birdsong as a Supreme was to "hear no evil, see no evil and do no evil" by this time Motown was using the Andantes which was a studio back up group on a lot of recordings that were done by Diana Ross and the Supremes (supposed). Songs like: Love Child, No Matter What Sign You Are, The Composer, I'm Living in Shame, and the final recording "Someday We'll Be Together. These were songs the late Mary Wilson or Cindy Birdsong did not had the pleasure of singing on. The "late Mary Wilson" and Cindy Birdsong were just seen and not heard. RIP Florence Ballard you are still loved and go meet Mary Wilson up in heaven.
These ladies sang on thousands of records. They should have been well off. They, like the Funk Brothers did not get half the credit and recognition they deserved. Gordy, to this day insists that they were this one big happy family!
Berry Gordy and Diana Ross conspired to get Florence out of the group because some venues would not accept a replacement for flo and Diana Ross could not shine with Florence around. As soon as Florence was fired she was replaced by Cindy Birdsong, who was stolen from Patti Labelle and the Bluebells and the group was renamed Diana Ross and the Supremes. That opened the door to eventuality launch Diana Ross' career. She would leave the Supremes 2 and a half years later. She had the attitude that without her the Supremes would be finished. Ironically the Supremes without her had success e at earlier than ross had as a solo artist. They went on 7 more years after Ross' departure. I would argue that Motown sabotaged the supremes after Ross left
That's a little bit creative. Ross was just preparing her powerful solo debut, which trumped anything any of the other supremes ever did. Also, irrespective of how patty labelle may feel about it, nobody is *stolen from anybody others group. Those people make their own decisions.
Most singing groups have an expiration date of 7yrs or less. The Supremes ran their course while Diana was lead singer! Diana was the choice for lead because she gave them the best opportunity for crossover success which in those days meant more money and a larger audience. Florence had a R&B type voice and Mary had no voice at all. At least not for lead of any group. Anyway Berry called all the shots in those days for ALL his artist since it was his money and company's name on the line. I'd do the same for a start up company! Also all contracts favored his company . You either signed the contract or you went somewhere else! Most contracts still favored the record company for they had to do so much to promote new artist.Basically Florence just had a lot of issues .....Drinking and overweight being two of them along with a bad attitude! Berry had to get rid of her and bring in Cindy. All anyone has to do is look at that husband for most of her monetary problems and no one else. Motown paid her when she left. She just gave it to a con artist of a man.
@williammials6080 The voice of reason speaks! People will armchair quarterback things from a century ago, on and on, and because often of their own projections, in this social media era, will have contributed very little. Don't you suppose the stars check in on these sorts of comments and that it would have an effect them? I'm thinking right now of how jennifer lopez just recently shut down her entire planned tour. Even in this format we ought to be mindful the way we treat others, and truly in similar circumstances would not have pulled off w the kind of humanity what they managed
@williammials6080 The voice of reason speaks! People will armchair quarterback things from a century ago, on and on, and because often of their own projections in this social media era will have ultimately contributed very little. Don't you suppose the stars check in on these sorts of comments and that it would have an effect them? I'm thinking right now of how jennifer lopez just recently shut down an entire planned tour... Even in this format we ought to be mindful the way we treat others, and truly in similar circumstances might not have pulled off w the kind of humanity what they were able to muster
@williammials6080 The voice of reason speaks! People will armchair quarterback things from a century ago, on and on, and because often of their own projections in this social media era will have ultimately contributed very little. Don't you suppose the stars check in on these sorts of comments and that it would have an effect them? I'm thinking right now of how jennifer lopez just recently shut down an entire planned tour... Even in this format we ought to be mindful the way we treat others, and truly in similar circumstances might not have pulled off w the kind of humanity what they were able to muster
She was beautiful and I’m sorry for all the things that happen to her. It was too much and she couldn’t deal with it. But I think she was person that didn’t take no crap from anyone…..not even Berry Gordy and that was the downfall.
I agree. Like the presenter said the truth will come out but it will probably be after Berry Gordy passes away. Even though people wrote books, they held back. Not wishing anything bad, but hell! It looks like he’s outliving them all!
Please expound, please. For some, he wasn’t that much older, like the Four Tops, for instance. Gordy was born in 1929 and they were in the 1930s, yet he had a lot of influence over the artists, musicians and most of the song writers; Smokey was/is his friend. How do you see it as weird? Thanks.
My favorite Supreme. Florence was a beautiful black queen who left too soon. I listened to one of her interviews and she was real and to the point. I love it when she said she was stacked put together and yes she was stacked, beautiful and bold. Rest in Heaven Florence
She was my fav Supreme! Nothing against the other ladies. She was amazingly talented! Her voice was just out of this world! I’ve always said that a movie should be made about her. And Faith Evans should play her. 😊😊I don’t like the way she treated. I hope that she’s found peace. Love and light to everyone! New sub here! Thx for the upload!
Would be great if a documentary could be done on Florence with interviews with her daughters, siblings and other Motown greats like Otis Williams, Gladys Knight, Smokey Robinson. Faith Evans should most definitely be the ONLY choice for playing her in a movie about her life.
@@goldenlady1213 I agree. There was an Unsung from TVOne. Mary Wilson was among those interviewed. It was okay, but a documentary on her life would be better coming from those who knew her intimately. Faith Evans was going to play her but the project was scrapped.
Sorry to learn the details of Florence Ballard's unfortunate demise. May she RIP. BET needs to do a biopic individually on Florence Ballard, Berry Gordy, and Diana Ross.
Florence was so beautiful and talented she deserved better in life. If not for her there couldn't have been any Supremes R.I.P. beautiful lady you will forever be missed. Mary was also a talented beauty, Rest Well Two Queens of a lifetime 💕😢
I loved this documentary about Florence Ballard, she truly faced such horrible treatment and the world truly missed out on her talent. May she rest in peace.
Hardly. Perhaps you have more research to do. Puff Diddler is currently tagged as the bi-sexual, drugged out and trafficking Jeffery Epstein in the industry
Mary Wilson 🙏🕊 did her best to tell the tale of Flo's life. It's basically bad choices and getting blackballed from something that she loved doing. ☹️💔 RIP to both 🙏🎤🎤🎶🕊🕊🙏
Thank you. Someone commented that no one cared about backup hand clappers, hence Florence and Mary. Even though I was a young girl during the classic Supremes era I had older sisters with their friends who talked about the Supremes, including Flo. The music was so memorable that even as a child, who could forget it? Anyhow, it seems that interest began to peak, resurrecting her memory and legacy after movie Dream girls. Also, there would not have been an Unsung on her if she was that insignificant.
Mary Wilson always tried to tell the truth about Flo's talent, and her magical voice. Nobody ever seemed to listen, though. By the time Mary's book came out, Florence was gone.
You should do a video on one of the background singers to Ray Charles, she is Margie Hendricks. She was like Florence because she died too early and had a rough life.
I was a huge Florence ballard fan. Supremes fan Diana ross and Mary wilson. They changed the way i thought about being black female in America. Uplifted me and they were so classy. Beautiful and smart. Changed the world for black females.
It's interesting that Diana and Mary didn't like the name Supremes at first and thought it sounded masculine. And none of them liked "Where Did Our Love Go."
I wish there would of some way to help Florence Ballard. She endured so much pain in her life. She was a beautiful lady and a shining star With out her there would be no Supremes. RIP Flo. We have never forgotten you.❤❤❤
@@neilcook3401 trauma especially in those days runs deep especially when you don’t have empathy from anyone. My own mom is an alcoholic and stuck in the past.
@@brahmabkitty03 First, I really hope your Mom decides to get the help she needs to be happy and productive in her own way. Also, as you said, trauma without empathy and I will add, compassion, doesn’t help the person. The person either becomes more introverted. In Flo’s case she was still jovial but noPeople keep saying that she could have helped herself. There were no resources at that time for rape. If Flo got on a witness stand she would have been torn apart: “what were you wearing?” “Are you in the habit of getting into cars with boys?” Little or no sympathy was toward the woman. Also back then, many African American families did not go to therapy. Flo was shielded by her family, but her mother probably didn’t know what else to do. Lastly, Flo did come to terms with taking responsibility for her life. I read her book “The Lost Supreme”. She mentioned living life on life’s terms and taking it one day at a time.
I remember when Faith Evans was going to play her. She even met with Flo’s daughters. She probably met with her siblings as well since her daughters were so young when she passed away. Anyway the project was scrapped. I would say mysteriously. Faith would have made a good Flo Ballard. Mekhi Phifer was slated to play Tommy Chapman.
No one should be portraying her. Because in order to make it fly, you have to villainize Ross and Gordy. Florence Ballard would take NO responsibility for what happened. Not a good idea; I hope it never happens.
Thanks for the presentation. I heard most of the information before except that Florence was afraid of flying/heights. I don’t think she suddenly flipped. This seemed like a build up over time with the unresolved rape and being pushed to the back. Eventually Florence did take responsibility for what happened to her as far as her life, including with the Supremes goes. She shouldn’t have taken that bum back. In some cases children are better off without that one parent. As you said, one day the entire truth will come out. I’m just glad she’s finally getting her recognition as an important part of the Supremes.
At this point, the story is out there. No one is going to even the score. We have to decide whether belligerence, drunkenness, missing rehearsals, not showing up for performances is important, or, whether citing " creative differences," (say it to yourself) and protecting your talent is important. The truth is already out; both the late Mary Wilson has a book (1986) and Diana Ross (1993) has one, too. Miss Ballard passed 47 years ago. Nothing will change that. No one, or nothing is coming to give her "justice." In this ONE LIFE we get, we've got only one chance to get it right.
@michellekirkendall818 Life is cruel. Being raped, betrayal, racism, childhood trauma, etc., during a time where mental health wasn't a consideration and especially in the Black Community, she did the best she could. And as we all know, many times doing one's best simply isn't good enough. Such is life.
@@louniece1650 Thank you. I forgot to mention racism, and the fact that their lives were at risk when they first toured the South, which added to the trauma.
The FACT that her solo version of Silent Night was shelved and not released on the 1965 Supremes Christmas album shows how fearful Motown (Berry) was of this woman’s vocals. Releasing that as a single would’ve pumped the brakes on Berry’s solo plans for Diana! Excuse me…Miss Ross!
Where is her talent? I’ve yet to hear anything by her that suggests she was anything but I good enough backing singer. Prove me wrong because I own everything she did
Thank you for the video and I clicked subscribe after watching it. I enjoy hearing about Florence Ballard. I recently read a book/bio about her. Great voice. More truth will came out, especially after Gordys time has come.
Florence was a woman who stood up for her principles. Although she was a background singer her "star quality" still radiated among fans wherever these girls toured. The animosity occurred with her and Berry Gordy when she rejected his advances and Diana welcomed them.
Berry Gordy wanted someone that he could control, and Florence Ballard wasn't having it. In Berry's world was he was to "play the tunes and she was to dance to them", and Florence didn't dance to nobody's tunes at all. When Berry Gordy realized this, he basically did not want her around.
I have never heard or read anywhere that Berry Gordy made “advances” to Florence! If you can provide proof otherwise- please do enlighten me. The fact of the matter is that Florence was indifferent of Berry’s business decision to focus on Diana. Flo’s tantrums, etc. obviously and historically did not change his mind about making Diana the nucleus of the Supremes. History has not proven him to be wrong. Just facts!
I was waiting for this comment! It was a sour grapes situation. Berry Gordy wanted Florence. Florence didn't want him. He found a way to destroy Florence's career. Meanwhile, Diana was ambitious and saw the dynamics between them and saw the opportunity to advance in the group. She became the lead singer, had his kid, and became a B list Hollywood star. I do believe Gordy uprooted the Motown headquarters from Detroit, where all of the talented musicians were, to California just to help Diane with her acting career. I'm not hating on Ms. Ross at all. It's just an observation.
@@leeleea4164 During the time period that Diana Ross was in the group, she was not a team player at all. She was of herself, about herself and for herself. She ultimately became a superstar at the expense of the group. Mary Wilson and Florence Ballard saw this and became upset with her. She didn't rise to the top at Motown on her talents but on her back. It was a "quid pro quo" situation. Berry Gordy knew very well that Florence Ballard was the most "God gifted" naturally talented member of the trio. As a businessman when you have talent you develop and nurture your talent. Allowing Florence Ballard to sing lead occasionally would not impeded the success of that organization (The Supremes) at all. It would have shown more diversity amongst those girls. It would have increased their fan base because Florence was loved by fans all over the world.
This is basically an outline of what happened, let's talk why she was sad before she was kicked out of the group. Diana and Berry's relationship and Diana wanting everything for her. Not sharing lead vocals,having the dressing rooms split up,whenever Florence took a drink of a drink Diana would call Berry and snitch. Florences weight gain (which to me she didn't look bad at all) was taunted by Berry and Diana that she was FAT. Florence wanted equality in the group. Diana wanted it all For herself. The name change to Diana Ross and the Supremes was too much for Florence. She was blackballed when she went to ABC Records. Her record was shelved due to the fact that the president of ABC Records was golfing buddy's with who else Berry Gordy. Berry and Diana knew Florence could go far they didn't want any competition for Diana's solo career. They was scared...they knew Florence was a Star. That's why all that shit Berry and Diana did behind her back shows their weaknesses. FLORENCE BALLARD ❤❤❤THE QUEEN
STAR?????? She was no star! She was a backup singer period! You need to look at her husband for mismanaging her money and career by bad choices and trying to produce her! He had no experience...He was a Chauffer. He came around when she had money!. Face it....She drank too much and had other personal issues!
Excellent documentary! Florence Ballard’s flame never went out, it may have been diminished, but it always came back only to be snuffed out by some unseen, black (not to be taken in racial terms) hand. Perhaps someday the real truth will come to light. Someone will come forward with the manuscript of that book that she was planning on releasing, and all will be known. Much to the chagrin of many in the Motown apparatus. Won’t that be the day?
I sometimes wonder if some of us just have to end up with the short end of the stick our whole lives to balance out the universe while others breeze along with bright colors that were just handed to them with ease.
@@alexandradillard2077 I can't help but think that one's upbringing and their formative years may have some bearing on that. Some parents are really hard on their children, engage in put-downs, name calling, and comparisons to other children. This in turn can lead to feelings of low self worth and early onset depression. By the time high school graduation rolls around, then it's either sink or swim. May God bless the child that's got his own.
Absolutely ‼️‼️‼️ look up balance and the impact it has on the way of life. The statue of the woman that holds her arms out she’s holding something on her arms stands for the symbolism of the impact BALANCE has on this earth
Like Dreamgirls, I wish she had a happy ending with her own solo career. She had so much potential to make it on her own, rest in internal peace Blondie🤍🕊️ Great documentary!!
THANK YOU FOR SHARING THE TRUTH ABOUT FLORENCE BALLARD AND ALL OF THE HIDDEN PAIN, THAT SHE HAD INSIDE OF HER WHILE SMILING AND ENTERTAINING US...I LOVE ALL THREE OF THE SUPREME. I WOULD NOT CHOOSE ONE OVER THE OTHER. ALL OF THEM HAD THEIR PAIN, SORROWS AND SECRETS, DON'T WE ALL IN THIS LIFE..I AM SORRY THAT HER PAIN WAS MORE THAN SHE COULD BARE. AND SHE CHOSE TO TURN TO DRINKING TO SOOTH HER PAIN...WE ALL DEAL WITH OUR PAIN IN DIFFERENT WAYS..I WONDER ABOUT HER CHILDREN AND I HOPE THAT THEY TURNED OUT ALRIGHT...AND THAT THEY WILL REMEMBER HOW GIFTED THEIR MOTHER WAS..."PEACE"
1. The Supremes had 18 top ten hits w/ Diana and only 2 without her. 2. Diana had the following as a solo act: 6 No.1 hits 12 top 10 hits (8 more than The Supremes w/o her) 40 songs charted in Hot 100 6 Gold albums & 3 platinum albums. I understand the feeling behind this comment and deep down we are all upset about Ms.Ballad’s career trajectory and personal life… but let’s separate feelings from facts here when speaking on Diana Ross.
Poor Florence. She had such a beautiful singing voice yet was going through a lot. Rape, weight shaming, and alcoholism. She deserved better. May she rest in peace 🕊
Your version of her death is news to me, as i read and also saw a documentary on her that said she was found unconscious in her kitchen by one of her daughters. Nicely done overall. Thanks for the posting....
6:37 to 6:47 she looks like a pretty doll head 😄 that used to be a toy. The little girls used to play with. They comb the hair and put on little make up and everything I had one mine was a Barbie doll head 😃
The three ladies are so beautiful ,each one was unic,Florence to me is the prettiest,Mary, an Diana. But Diana's voice was the best.I wish barry let Florence sing one song.Florence just had a very sad life her health, her husband stealing her money,and unable to get back into the group.their voiceS will live for ever rest in peace beautiful ladies. And Diane she's gona out live even gordy..........love you Diana.......
Florence was a doll! My father saw them in person and said she was the prettiest of the three! But the others were cute. The only reason he said this is because me and my sisters asked the question.
You know what is worse? The entertainment business it's full of pain hurt and betrayal that's what some people Don't understand especially the Diana Ross Stan's. Now if some of you were in a girl group together would you agree that everyone should be treated equally? Yes no matter who has the best voice or not every group member should be treated equally and with respect.
Forever And Always Florence Ballard ❤️❤️🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾. I would say more but i do not feel like arguing with the obsessed Diana Ross Stan's and i mean literally obsessed with Diana Ross they can't handle any opinions or comments about her or her wrong doings when it comes to the history of the Supremes.
Very good documentation. One of the best about Florence. I remember after she left the group, I lost interest in the Supremes, it wasn't the same without her saucy personality. When she was fired, Motown actually tried to offer her a check for only $15,000 for her service. Florence knew that was bullshit and hired Leonard Baun, who sadly was an even bigger crook. One fact often overlooked is that Florence, in the last six or seven months of her life, was laid up with a badly broken leg. Lying immobile for months can create blood clots in the legs, and they can travel right up to the coronary arteries. I believe this is what happened. Florence complained during this time about chest pain and shortness of breath, but didn't seek medical attention. I can understand most 32 year old women don't die of heart attacks, but sadly that's what happened.
Florence wasn’t laying up with a broken leg for she was being interviewed quite a bit at that time for a friend of Flo’s called the Detroit News to see about the former Supreme who has hit hard times. Florence was not in good health and when she was experiencing being hot 🥵 all the time she didn’t look into why and had a heart attack.
@malcolmmarshall5946
💥👍💥👍💥👍💥👍💥👍💥👍💥👍
I read about Flo's broken leg from "A SLIP AND FALL ACCIDENT" and I STRONGLY AGREE that it could have been A GOOD POSSIBILITY for the Blood clots as well.
@@freddy8479 I won’t dispute what you said for anything is possible but Flo also suffered from high blood pressure and even though back then it wasn’t being monitored high cholesterol could’ve contributed.
@@Vincent50 🤔🤔🤔
COULD BE A COMBINATION OF MENTAL ("DEPRESSION") AS WELL AS THE PHYSICAL AILMENTS.
I kind of lost interest too. They kinda lost their soul when Flo left.🙄
Florence is the" unsung" of the Supremes. So wonderfully talented and absolutely gorgeous. God bless her sweet soul.
I salute you Florence ballard one of the greatest
We will always love you Florence !
A movie of Florence Ballard's life should be made from this video to benefit her daughters 💜
It was talks of one 10 years ago starring Faith Evans but they couldn’t get funding. Berry probably stopped it
@@brahmabkitty03 I was thinking the same thing. Berry Gordy probably doesn't want any of his evil skeleton's to get out about he mistreated Florence Ballard because he probably wanted her for himself.
@saundrabrown-umixs: Hopefully there will never be a film made about Florence Ballard. Imagine showing her as a VICTIM to benefit her daughters! There is no victory in that. Let this story be a cautionary tale. When what an artist wants suddenly changes, and somehow won't be rectified, that is called "creative differences." Continue your work, until you can get the information you need, to move on. Mary Wilson stayed. Why not Florence? Do not further victimize the late Miss Ballard, or her children.
Agreed 100 % !!!!
@@saundrabrown-um1xs Remember, do not confuse the "Dreamgirls" story with Berry Gordy, Jr, and Florence Ballard. Berry is NOT Curtis, and Florence is not "Effie."
Great documentary! Will always love Florence. She is a Supreme and she will always be in our hearts!
I lived in Detroit, and everyone knew what happened, and Berry had his own agenda. He wanted Diane for himself. It didn't matter that he was married, so he made her lead, and they started dating. Florence had the better voice, but Barry wouldn't let her sing, Then Diane got pregnant by Berry, and Florence was kick out the group with no money. Because they were on salary by Motown and she wasn't given any money after she left. The rest is history. I felt sorry for her and her family. She didn't deserve to be treated like this, and their was nothing she could do.
Florence Was Told That There Was Stocks and Bonds For Them.. Where Is The Money? Berry Was A Gambler. All These Artist Should Have Money
It breaks my heart her story, because Flo looks exactly like my mama! And my mama's name is Glenda just like Flo's middle name, it's eerie as hell! Even more weird is that my aunties treat my mama like the black sheep and she's the realest most down to earth one with a heart of Gold man! They made lil snide comments when my mom had to go on gov assistance, I was young but I remember that shit! That's why I can't stand those fake ass (Excuse my language and my rant, this triggered me) bitter old B****** till this day! Me and my sister made a pact, that when the day of my mama's passing, they WILL NOT be welcomed at her service! And we have kids now too, her (grandchildren) which are all grown. So trust, they are 20x worse than me and my sister! Flo reminds me so much of mama! But she's good now they can't take away her legacy! RIP Ms.Flo you WERE and will ALWAYS be THAT chick!!!!!
Florence received a nice check after leaving Motown she blew it on alcohol and her lawyer scammed her
Cindyboren5641 You’re wrong on so many levels. First of all, The Supremes had been at Motown since 1961, and Diana and Berry’s romance didn’t start until 1965, and that was after the group had 5 consecutive number 1s, by which time Diana was already established as lead singer. Berry and Diana were BOTH single (he was divorced)
The statement you made about Diana getting pregnant and Florence was kicked out of the group is just about as ridiculous as it gets. Diana left the group in January 1970, 2 years after Flo left. Diana and Berry’s daughter, Rhonda, was born August 14 1971, 18 months after Diana left.
On leaving Motown, Flo was paid almost $140,000 in royalties and earnings. In today’s money that would be the equivalent of approximately $1.2ML It was Florence’s husband and lawyer who did her out of that money and had nothing to do with anyone else.
All this shows that you actually know FA about the facts.
Wait we don't know berry Gordy or flo Diana Ross or Mary Wilson we what been told and there was shade somewhere Barry was known to cheat his artist as well but im not putting him down or up lifting him it's just that we forget we don't really know these people personally flo also has debts before getting that money and what I heard is that she really raped twice not once they don't give details on it and they mission it only every once and awhile so I don't argue these people from what they have said about Barry he was seeing both men and women and that flo might had been seeing Barry before Diana so we don't know accept that there is more to the story and somebody is not telling the complete truth Mary Wilson over the years changed her story about flo later and Florence Ballard did do interviews and would mission about how she felt and her faults as well so she just didn't blame Barry Gordy or her husband or lawyer I heard the interviews so I know Barry and diana wasn't inacent diana should not of been lead diana wasn't the prettiest one nore the best singer in the group mary and flo did have the best voices and stronger voices but sounded black diana had a less threatening voice softer and higher not loud or yelling or firm they did it with othere groups little anthany and the imperials franky limond and the teenager high pitched but not threatening commercial to name a few
She was sooooo Beautiful it didn’t make no sense! She has the most amazing beautiful glowy eyes. #She died so young! 🥺🥺😢😢😢😢
Her eyes were Hauntingly beautiful!!
@@bee6684 right! 😁
YOU WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED FLO, RIP.
🙏🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼👑👑🌹❤️❤️
Flo will never be forgotten, neither will Mary as well as Diana.
Respect to this Queen ❤️
The music industry is evil, Motown failed a lot of their artists
Right.
All of them except for the ones who were their golden goose
Yes, Florence was the founder of the group. Amazing!
She wasn’t *THE* founder. She was ONE of FOUR *founding* members. There’s a huge difference. Milt Jenkins was THE founder
I agree with Otis Williams…very few photos do her justice. The ones that do are contained here. Thank you.
Ah, Looks do matter then. Remember that when people are dissing that Diana was moved to the front. Also she had other standout features
@@Vibeagain enlighten us…what were the other standout features?😊
@@michaelmitchell5098
ALL the Spremes sounded good!
Ross had a distinctive and sometimes ethereal voice, and the ability to shape-shift and morph into varied versions of beauty.
That's where the star power was
@@Vibeagain 👍🏽
She has cute photos, but looks better in motion. Her and Mary were gorgeous !
In those times, rape & depression were not reslly discussed as they are now. As in the case of domestic violence, it wasn't talked about. Fly very high, Ms. Ballsrd🕊 You're soaring in the skies with yr good buddy, Mary Wilson. 🌈🎶🎤🎶 Again, rest easy. You are.not forgotten. RIP 🙏
There were therapists then, she had not sought one.
@@AlmondJoie In reality, you don't know what happens after you die. But, I will say this, hopefully people will get what they need in this LIFE to create and succeed with their dreams. It is now that the "good news" is spread. The young lady should have protected what was dear to her in LIFE....and that was to sing, to entertain. Nobody's coming at the end of her life to even the score.
@@michellekirkendall818 As a follower of Christ and a believer in the Word of God (the KJV Bible), scripture is clear that the dead don't know anything, and that even our love, envy, and hatred all perishes when we die. Psalm 115:17 says that the dead praise not the Lord, neither any who go down into silence. Nevertheless, people are still free to believe whatever they want. But only GOD has spoken the TRUTH. He is not a man that He should lie. God bless.
@@AlmondJoie It is good to read scripture. However, do avoid the "King James Version." It is re-translated, and King James was part of a deviant, alternative lifestyle. The beautiful Miss Florence Ballard should be entertaining us today. Made in the image of God, she should have sought out persons within the industry, who could help. She made a poor decision, and it cost her dearly.
@@AlmondJoie God created perfect beings. He's not "out there" somewhere, and you have to find him. He's already within you. Miss Florence Ballard was given a brain, conscience, intuition and clairvoyance. She had the gift of singing. Many people would feel lucky to have been in her shoes. If she had known what was already within her, she could have gone directly to the therapist, God had made to help her.
Flo was the heartbeat of the group.
In many ways she was "the Supreme". Once she was ousted from the group the way she was, that group was never the same. Her replacement Cindy Birdsong had a good voice, but it didn't match the intensity of Florence Ballard at all. Cindy Birdsong as a Supreme was to "hear no evil, see no evil and do no evil" by this time Motown was using the Andantes which was a studio back up group on a lot of recordings that were done by Diana Ross and the Supremes (supposed). Songs like: Love Child, No Matter What Sign You Are, The Composer, I'm Living in Shame, and the final recording "Someday We'll Be Together. These were songs the late Mary Wilson or Cindy Birdsong did not had the pleasure of singing on. The "late Mary Wilson" and Cindy Birdsong were just seen and not heard. RIP Florence Ballard you are still loved and go meet Mary Wilson up in heaven.
Yes! no wonder the Andantes had an apartment above the studio . Barry worked em to death. @@Leatherbro
These ladies sang on thousands of records. They should have been well off. They, like the Funk Brothers did not get half the credit and recognition they deserved. Gordy, to this day insists that they were this one big happy family!
@@alexandradillard2077 Lord have murcy, All they did was fight!
@@reglook1 From reading the books Berry Gordy stoked many of competitive fires among the groups/singers. As Marvin Gaye said, to protect his money.
So much for what Smokey Robinson called, the Motown family. They were definitely not a family to her.
Berry Gordy and Diana Ross conspired to get Florence out of the group because some venues would not accept a replacement for flo and Diana Ross could not shine with Florence around. As soon as Florence was fired she was replaced by Cindy Birdsong, who was stolen from Patti Labelle and the Bluebells and the group was renamed Diana Ross and the Supremes. That opened the door to eventuality launch Diana Ross' career. She would leave the Supremes 2 and a half years later. She had the attitude that without her the Supremes would be finished. Ironically the Supremes without her had success e at earlier than ross had as a solo artist. They went on 7 more years after Ross' departure. I would argue that Motown sabotaged the supremes after Ross left
That's a little bit creative. Ross was just preparing her powerful solo debut, which trumped anything any of the other supremes ever did.
Also, irrespective of how patty labelle may feel about it, nobody is *stolen from anybody others group. Those people make their own decisions.
Most singing groups have an expiration date of 7yrs or less. The Supremes ran their course while Diana was lead singer! Diana was the choice for lead because she gave them the best opportunity for crossover success which in those days meant more money and a larger audience. Florence had a R&B type voice and Mary had no voice at all. At least not for lead of any group. Anyway Berry called all the shots in those days for ALL his artist since it was his money and company's name on the line. I'd do the same for a start up company! Also all contracts favored his company . You either signed the contract or you went somewhere else! Most contracts still favored the record company for they had to do so much to promote new artist.Basically Florence just had a lot of issues .....Drinking and overweight being two of them along with a bad attitude! Berry had to get rid of her and bring in Cindy. All anyone has to do is look at that husband for most of her monetary problems and no one else. Motown paid her when she left. She just gave it to a con artist of a man.
@williammials6080
The voice of reason speaks!
People will armchair quarterback things from a century ago, on and on, and because often of their own projections, in this social media era, will have contributed very little.
Don't you suppose the stars check in on these sorts of comments and that it would have an effect them? I'm thinking right now of how jennifer lopez just recently shut down her entire planned tour.
Even in this format we ought to be mindful the way we treat others, and truly in similar circumstances would not have pulled off w the kind of humanity what they managed
@williammials6080
The voice of reason speaks!
People will armchair quarterback things from a century ago, on and on, and because often of their own projections in this social media era will have ultimately contributed very little.
Don't you suppose the stars check in on these sorts of comments and that it would have an effect them? I'm thinking right now of how jennifer lopez just recently shut down an entire planned tour...
Even in this format we ought to be mindful the way we treat others, and truly in similar circumstances might not have pulled off w the kind of humanity what they were able to muster
@williammials6080
The voice of reason speaks!
People will armchair quarterback things from a century ago, on and on, and because often of their own projections in this social media era will have ultimately contributed very little.
Don't you suppose the stars check in on these sorts of comments and that it would have an effect them? I'm thinking right now of how jennifer lopez just recently shut down an entire planned tour...
Even in this format we ought to be mindful the way we treat others, and truly in similar circumstances might not have pulled off w the kind of humanity what they were able to muster
She was beautiful and I’m sorry for all the things that happen to her. It was too much and she couldn’t deal with it. But I think she was person that didn’t take no crap from anyone…..not even Berry Gordy and that was the downfall.
I agree. Like the presenter said the truth will come out but it will probably be after Berry Gordy passes away. Even though people wrote books, they held back. Not wishing anything bad, but hell! It looks like he’s outliving them all!
@@alexandradillard2077 yes, I think Diana will be the very last to go.
@@alexandradillard2077 So true. Far as BG outliving the artists he signed & mind you he's older than all of them.
@@GarwinWayneAnd that in itself is a little weird if you think about it deeply enough.
Please expound, please. For some, he wasn’t that much older, like the Four Tops, for instance. Gordy was born in 1929 and they were in the 1930s, yet he had a lot of influence over the artists, musicians and most of the song writers; Smokey was/is his friend. How do you see it as weird? Thanks.
My favorite Supreme. Florence was a beautiful black queen who left too soon. I listened to one of her interviews and she was real and to the point. I love it when she said she was stacked put together and yes she was stacked, beautiful and bold. Rest in Heaven Florence
They're still doing that to celebrities today! Thank you Blondie 💜💜💜💜💜
She was the prettiest one.
She was my fav Supreme! Nothing against the other ladies. She was amazingly talented! Her voice was just out of this world! I’ve always said that a movie should be made about her. And Faith Evans should play her. 😊😊I don’t like the way she treated. I hope that she’s found peace. Love and light to everyone! New sub here! Thx for the upload!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Welcome to the family!❤️
Mine too
Would be great if a documentary could be done on Florence with interviews with her daughters, siblings and other Motown greats like Otis Williams, Gladys Knight, Smokey Robinson.
Faith Evans should most definitely be the ONLY choice for playing her in a movie about her life.
@@goldenlady1213 I agree. There was an Unsung from TVOne. Mary Wilson was among those interviewed. It was okay, but a documentary on her life would be better coming from those who knew her intimately. Faith Evans was going to play her but the project was scrapped.
@@goldenlady1213I can also see “Evelyn Champagne King” also auditioning for The “Florence Ballard” part.
I went to school with her daughter Lisa. She was quiet but visibly hurt by her mom’s absence
Is Ms. Florence’s daughter Lisa anywhere on social media?
Sorry to learn the details of Florence Ballard's unfortunate demise. May she RIP. BET needs to do a biopic individually on Florence Ballard, Berry Gordy, and Diana Ross.
TVOne did an Unsung on her. You may be able to find it on UA-cam.
@@alexandradillard2077 Thanks for the info. I was thinking in terms of a "movie". That's why I mentioned "biopic".
"Dreamgirls" is based off them, tho the creators claim it isn't. That's the closest we'll get to while Gordy & Ross are still alive.
Florence was so beautiful and talented she deserved better in life. If not for her there couldn't have been any Supremes R.I.P. beautiful lady you will forever be missed. Mary was also a talented beauty, Rest Well Two Queens of a lifetime 💕😢
She was a beautiful woman.
I LOVE YOU FLORENCE GLENDA!🫂
☮️🩵🖖🏻✝️♾️🕉🪬⚛️
from🏴,🇬🇧.
I loved this documentary about Florence Ballard, she truly faced such horrible treatment and the world truly missed out on her talent. May she rest in peace.
It's so good to be able to see this history ❤ thank you !
Glad you enjoyed it!
Florence Ballard was definitely that girl.....
Florence Ballard was so Gorgeous ❤
Always fancied her the most
She was so young and beautiful. Florence life was full of Trauma that never addressed. Her children became the focus of her life.
She was so beautiful.🥰 She didn’t deserve that type of treatment.😔 I wish the world wasn’t such a cruel place to live in.🌎
What treatment??? You must be talking about the alleged rape!
This is why the world we live in is so cruel.🌎👿 You show no compassion for a person who suffered all their life.😔
Barry Gordy is the P Diddy of his time🤷🏽♀️👀👀
💯💯💯💯💯
For réal yeah
Hardly. Perhaps you have more research to do. Ditties now being called the new jeffrey epstein
Hardly. Perhaps you have more research to do.
Puff Diddler is currently tagged as the bi-sexual, drugged out and trafficking Jeffery Epstein in the industry
Absolutely 💯
Great research, thank you for Flo's story🎉....RIP Flo✨
Such a brave talented women.I hope the truth comes out!!!!
Mary Wilson 🙏🕊 did her best to tell the tale of Flo's life. It's basically bad choices and getting blackballed from something that she loved doing. ☹️💔 RIP to both 🙏🎤🎤🎶🕊🕊🙏
@@sandraandrews9907yes Mary certainly did ... MAY THEY BOTH REST IN PEACE & LOVE ...
@@sandraandrews9907they probably killed her. What u think?
Errrrr It's out
Lets all agree the three of them were destined for Stardom, their name remaines, "Supremes!"
Hats off to a tried legend loved by fans the world over.
Thank you. Someone commented that no one cared about backup hand clappers, hence Florence and Mary. Even though I was a young girl during the classic Supremes era I had older sisters with their friends who talked about the Supremes, including Flo. The music was so memorable that even as a child, who could forget it? Anyhow, it seems that interest began to peak, resurrecting her memory and legacy after movie Dream girls. Also, there would not have been an Unsung on her if she was that insignificant.
Her "star quality" radiated although she was a background singer. She is probably "tearing the roof off" in heaven. RIP Florence, we still love you!!!
Mary Wilson always tried to tell the truth about Flo's talent, and her magical voice. Nobody ever seemed to listen, though. By the time Mary's book came out, Florence was gone.
You should do a video on one of the background singers to Ray Charles, she is Margie Hendricks. She was like Florence because she died too early and had a rough life.
Not to mention sadly left behind a child, Yeah I’m understand Margie was Flo as Ray Charles background singer.
Aww
that is so true, the good in this world sometime finish last unfortunatly, but not forever!!!
Dream Girls really resurrected her legacy. Mary Wilson also kept her memory alive. You’re right. Her spirit lives on.
My all time favorite Supreme! ❤❤
Thank you for sharing so much I never knew about Flo.
Glad you enjoyed it!
So much pain, so much heart ache. Love and Peace on your journey, and you will never be forgotten, Prayer and Love, may God be with you! 🙏😇
I hope Berry Gordy get his! R.I.POWER Ms. Ballard! 🙏🏿
Nah its too late
@@jeanandre6998 Oh that's right you're omniscient.....NOT!✌🏿
@@jeanandre6998 wym?
Gets his what? He gave her a chance and she Fxckxd it up. Why aren't you blaming that so called husband?
I was a huge Florence ballard fan. Supremes fan Diana ross and Mary wilson. They changed the way i thought about being black female in America. Uplifted me and they were so classy. Beautiful and smart. Changed the world for black females.
Florence has been my idol so so long. I connect so much with her
6:26 The painting of Flo in this frame is just too cute! I love the pretty pastel colors.💕
You hear about some people’s life stories and you wonder why life has to be so cruel.
It's interesting that Diana and Mary didn't like the name Supremes at first and thought it sounded masculine. And none of them liked "Where Did Our Love Go."
Well, "Where Did Our Love Go" did spark their career.
They had 9 records that more or less flopped.
I wish there would of some way to help Florence Ballard. She endured so much pain in her life.
She was a beautiful lady and a shining star
With out her there would be no Supremes.
RIP Flo. We have never forgotten you.❤❤❤
It's kind of difficult to help someone when they passed away almost 50 yrs ago. What would you suggest?
@@neilcook3401 You never read Mary Wilson's book "My life as a dream girl" then.
@@sblair6362 I’m sure they meant when she was alive.
@@neilcook3401 trauma especially in those days runs deep especially when you don’t have empathy from anyone. My own mom is an alcoholic and stuck in the past.
@@brahmabkitty03 First, I really hope your Mom decides to get the help she needs to be happy and productive in her own way. Also, as you said, trauma without empathy and I will add, compassion, doesn’t help the person. The person either becomes more introverted. In Flo’s case she was still jovial but noPeople keep saying that she could have helped herself. There were no resources at that time for rape. If Flo got on a witness stand she would have been torn apart: “what were you wearing?” “Are you in the habit of getting into cars with boys?” Little or no sympathy was toward the woman. Also back then, many African American families did not go to therapy. Flo was shielded by her family, but her mother probably didn’t know what else to do. Lastly, Flo did come to terms with taking responsibility for her life. I read her book “The Lost Supreme”. She mentioned living life on life’s terms and taking it one day at a time.
Wow! What a story!! Rhianna resembles her and would be a good option in the role about her life if she has acting chops.
I respectfully disagree with you.
Actress Erica Peeples, A Michigan native and "THE TRUE TO THE GAME" trilogies would be A GOOD FIT to portray "Flo."
I remember when Faith Evans was going to play her. She even met with Flo’s daughters. She probably met with her siblings as well since her daughters were so young when she passed away. Anyway the project was scrapped. I would say mysteriously. Faith would have made a good Flo Ballard. Mekhi Phifer was slated to play Tommy Chapman.
And LaToya from Destiny's Child....
No one should be portraying her. Because in order to make it fly, you have to villainize Ross and Gordy. Florence Ballard would take NO responsibility for what happened. Not a good idea; I hope it never happens.
Hell no Faith Evans should play the Florence Ballard. Rhianna can't act her way out of a paper bag.
Thanks for the presentation. I heard most of the information before except that Florence was afraid of flying/heights. I don’t think she suddenly flipped. This seemed like a build up over time with the unresolved rape and being pushed to the back. Eventually Florence did take responsibility for what happened to her as far as her life, including with the Supremes goes. She shouldn’t have taken that bum back. In some cases children are better off without that one parent.
As you said, one day the entire truth will come out. I’m just glad she’s finally getting her recognition as an important part of the Supremes.
At this point, the story is out there. No one is going to even the score. We have to decide whether belligerence, drunkenness, missing rehearsals, not showing up for performances is important, or, whether citing " creative differences," (say it to yourself) and protecting your talent is important. The truth is already out; both the late Mary Wilson has a book (1986) and Diana Ross (1993) has one, too. Miss Ballard passed 47 years ago. Nothing will change that. No one, or nothing is coming to give her "justice." In this ONE LIFE we get, we've got only one chance to get it right.
@michellekirkendall818 Life is cruel. Being raped, betrayal, racism, childhood trauma, etc., during a time where mental health wasn't a consideration and especially in the Black Community, she did the best she could. And as we all know, many times doing one's best simply isn't good enough. Such is life.
@@louniece1650 Thank you. I forgot to mention racism, and the fact that their lives were at risk when they first toured the South, which added to the trauma.
The FACT that her solo version of Silent Night was shelved and not released on the 1965 Supremes Christmas album shows how fearful Motown (Berry) was of this woman’s vocals. Releasing that as a single would’ve pumped the brakes on Berry’s solo plans for Diana! Excuse me…Miss Ross!
LIES! Then she could have released a Christmas Album when she left Motown if it was all that!
She was extremely talented and beautiful 🫶🏾
Where is her talent? I’ve yet to hear anything by her that suggests she was anything but I good enough backing singer. Prove me wrong because I own everything she did
The notes that she hit in "I Hear A Symphony" give me the chills.
Thank you for the video and I clicked subscribe after watching it. I enjoy hearing about Florence Ballard. I recently read a book/bio about her. Great voice. More truth will came out, especially after Gordys time has come.
Glad you enjoyed it!
What about that husband? If you show up to work drunk you'll get fired from any job! Gordy gave her a JOB.
Rest in peace sweet darling. ✝️🕊
Florence was a woman who stood up for her principles. Although she was a background singer her "star quality" still radiated among fans wherever these girls toured. The animosity occurred with her and Berry Gordy when she rejected his advances and Diana welcomed them.
I think that could be the case, but the rumors are trying to say that Berry dumped Flo for Diana. We will never know the real truth about that.
Berry Gordy wanted someone that he could control, and Florence Ballard wasn't having it. In Berry's world was he was to "play the tunes and she was to dance to them", and Florence didn't dance to nobody's tunes at all. When Berry Gordy realized this, he basically did not want her around.
I have never heard or read anywhere that Berry Gordy made “advances” to Florence! If you can provide proof otherwise- please do enlighten me. The fact of the matter is that Florence was indifferent of Berry’s business decision to focus on Diana. Flo’s tantrums, etc. obviously and historically did not change his mind about making Diana the nucleus of the Supremes. History has not proven him to be wrong. Just facts!
I was waiting for this comment! It was a sour grapes situation. Berry Gordy wanted Florence. Florence didn't want him. He found a way to destroy Florence's career. Meanwhile, Diana was ambitious and saw the dynamics between them and saw the opportunity to advance in the group. She became the lead singer, had his kid, and became a B list Hollywood star. I do believe Gordy uprooted the Motown headquarters from Detroit, where all of the talented musicians were, to California just to help Diane with her acting career. I'm not hating on Ms. Ross at all. It's just an observation.
@@leeleea4164 During the time period that Diana Ross was in the group, she was not a team player at all. She was of herself, about herself and for herself. She ultimately became a superstar at the expense of the group. Mary Wilson and Florence Ballard saw this and became upset with her. She didn't rise to the top at Motown on her talents but on her back. It was a "quid pro quo" situation. Berry Gordy knew very well that Florence Ballard was the most "God gifted" naturally talented member of the trio. As a businessman when you have talent you develop and nurture your talent. Allowing Florence Ballard to sing lead occasionally would not impeded the success of that organization (The Supremes) at all. It would have shown more diversity amongst those girls. It would have increased their fan base because Florence was loved by fans all over the world.
Wonderful documentary! Hopefully, her memoire does come out by some miracle of a chance.
I appreciate you, thank you for sharing this and I appreciate the way you speak
Ms. Florence Ballard is my favorite Supreme.
She is loved and missed.
She was such an attractive woman. All she needed was someone to listen, care and understand!😒
This is basically an outline of what happened, let's talk why she was sad before she was kicked out of the group. Diana and Berry's relationship and Diana wanting everything for her. Not sharing lead vocals,having the dressing rooms split up,whenever Florence took a drink of a drink Diana would call Berry and snitch. Florences weight gain (which to me she didn't look bad at all) was taunted by Berry and Diana that she was FAT. Florence wanted equality in the group. Diana wanted it all For herself. The name change to Diana Ross and the Supremes was too much for Florence. She was blackballed when she went to ABC Records. Her record was shelved due to the fact that the president of ABC Records was golfing buddy's with who else Berry Gordy. Berry and Diana knew Florence could go far they didn't want any competition for Diana's solo career. They was scared...they knew Florence was a Star. That's why all that shit Berry and Diana did behind her back shows their weaknesses. FLORENCE BALLARD ❤❤❤THE QUEEN
I agree 💯💯
Everyone is "fat" standing next to Diana Ross.
STAR?????? She was no star! She was a backup singer period! You need to look at her husband for mismanaging her money and career by bad choices and trying to produce her! He had no experience...He was a Chauffer. He came around when she had money!. Face it....She drank too much and had other personal issues!
She was better off being on her own. Jealous and greed is always lurking.
Too bad these things happen to her
Excellent documentary! Florence Ballard’s flame never went out, it may have been diminished, but it always came back only to be snuffed out by some unseen, black (not to be taken in racial terms) hand. Perhaps someday the real truth will come to light. Someone will come forward with the manuscript of that book that she was planning on releasing, and all will be known. Much to the chagrin of many in the Motown apparatus. Won’t that be the day?
That first pic of Flo is everything
I sometimes wonder if some of us just have to end up with the short end of the stick our whole lives to balance out the universe while others breeze along with bright colors that were just handed to them with ease.
This is a great philosophical point. It makes you wonder doesn’t it? Some people try their entire lives and end in the same position.
@@alexandradillard2077 I can't help but think that one's upbringing and their formative years may have some bearing on that. Some parents are really hard on their children, engage in put-downs, name calling, and comparisons to other children. This in turn can lead to feelings of low self worth and early onset depression. By the time high school graduation rolls around, then it's either sink or swim. May God bless the child that's got his own.
Absolutely ‼️‼️‼️ look up balance and the impact it has on the way of life. The statue of the woman that holds her arms out she’s holding something on her arms stands for the symbolism of the impact BALANCE has on this earth
...FOR REAL!!!!I COULD RELATE TO THAT!!!!
Like Dreamgirls, I wish she had a happy ending with her own solo career. She had so much potential to make it on her own, rest in internal peace Blondie🤍🕊️ Great documentary!!
The Supremes are my favorite Motown act. Love them.
This was a good in depth video, I knw what happened to Flo, but not all the details about the guy involved.
Beautiful,Intelligent, Funny Lady With A Great Voice.
Very nice.I love the deep colors.Great job!!!❤️
THANK YOU FOR SHARING THE TRUTH ABOUT FLORENCE BALLARD AND ALL OF THE HIDDEN PAIN, THAT SHE HAD INSIDE OF HER
WHILE SMILING AND ENTERTAINING US...I LOVE ALL THREE OF THE SUPREME. I WOULD NOT CHOOSE ONE OVER THE OTHER. ALL OF THEM
HAD THEIR PAIN, SORROWS AND SECRETS, DON'T WE ALL IN THIS LIFE..I AM SORRY THAT HER PAIN WAS MORE THAN SHE COULD BARE.
AND SHE CHOSE TO TURN TO DRINKING TO SOOTH HER PAIN...WE ALL DEAL WITH OUR PAIN IN DIFFERENT WAYS..I WONDER ABOUT HER CHILDREN AND I HOPE THAT THEY TURNED OUT ALRIGHT...AND THAT THEY WILL REMEMBER HOW GIFTED THEIR MOTHER WAS..."PEACE"
Nice job.
Thank you for paying respect and dignity to Florence.
Thank you Sir.
Diana was nothing without the Supremes
You're delusional and hatred has clouded your judgment.
beverlylawyer9692 I think you’ll find it was the other way around. Learn something about the group being as you’re a lawyer (hilarious)
1. The Supremes had 18 top ten hits w/ Diana and only 2 without her.
2. Diana had the following as a solo act:
6 No.1 hits
12 top 10 hits (8 more than The Supremes w/o her)
40 songs charted in Hot 100
6 Gold albums & 3 platinum albums.
I understand the feeling behind this comment and deep down we are all upset about Ms.Ballad’s career trajectory and personal life… but let’s separate feelings from facts here when speaking on Diana Ross.
You got that backwards! On several songs Mary and Florence were not even used! After Diana Ross & The Supremes Diana star STILL rose!
Peace to you Flo. Truth be told, as you're RESTING IN ✌ ❤ 🎶
Poor Florence. She had such a beautiful singing voice yet was going through a lot. Rape, weight shaming, and alcoholism. She deserved better. May she rest in peace 🕊
i truly believe she was silenced. rip Blondie
I’ve seen many videos on Florence and this is the best one I’ve seen so far!
Glad you enjoyed it!❤️
More coming your way!
SAME! This is GREAT!
What a pity & what a loss?!🕊️
Well done. Thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Continue to sleep on in heavenly peace Ms.Florence good talent gone to soon but we no ur up there singing with the angels 🙏🙏🙏🙏🕊️🕊️🕊️🎤
GREAT DOCUMENTARY
Glad you enjoyed it!
I always thought she was the prettiest one of the supremes she was gorgeous treated horribly she was an amazing women angelic voice so beautiful
Your version of her death is news to me, as i read and also saw a documentary on her that said she was found unconscious in her kitchen by one of her daughters. Nicely done overall. Thanks for the posting....
You heard that from the person who is claiming to be related to her. Nobody knows how true that is or if that woman is even related.
Mary said that Flo was paralyzed from the waist down. She passed away the next morning while in the hospital.
6:37 to 6:47 she looks like a pretty doll head 😄 that used to be a toy. The little girls used to play with. They comb the hair and put on little make up and everything I had one mine was a Barbie doll head 😃
That background music is crankin.....
Wat beautiful lady she was always in our hearts never forgotten r.i.p
❤❤❤❤New subscriber!!!This had me from start to finish...
Glad you enjoyed it!
Welcome to the family!❤️
It's sad what happened to her. Rest In Peace Florence ❤.
The three ladies are so beautiful ,each one was unic,Florence to me is the prettiest,Mary, an Diana. But Diana's voice was the best.I wish barry let Florence sing one song.Florence just had a very sad life her health, her husband stealing her money,and unable to get back into the group.their voiceS will live for ever rest in peace beautiful ladies. And Diane she's gona out live even gordy..........love you Diana.......
This was heartbreaking to Florence Ballard! You will always be the ORIGINAL Supremes! Nobody can EVER replace you! ❤❤❤ RIP Florence & Mary !
She was used and dumped by a group of coniving frienemies she trusted. Rest in peace Angel 🙏
She had issues. Alcohol being one!
Florence was a doll! My father saw them in person and said she was the prettiest of the three! But the others were cute. The only reason he said this is because me and my sisters asked the question.
Every interesting thanks for showing me 😊
You know what is worse? The entertainment business it's full of pain hurt and betrayal that's what some people Don't understand especially the Diana Ross Stan's. Now if some of you were in a girl group together would you agree that everyone should be treated equally? Yes no matter who has the best voice or not every group member should be treated equally and with respect.
If I am doing lead on every song I want more money and the name change!
Wait a minute. This is the reason people disapprove of Diana Ross?? This interesting.
Forever And Always Florence Ballard ❤️❤️🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾. I would say more but i do not feel like arguing with the obsessed Diana Ross Stan's and i mean literally obsessed with Diana Ross they can't handle any opinions or comments about her or her wrong doings when it comes to the history of the Supremes.
Boulé Berry and dervish Diana will answer at the Pearly Gates.
Lol. Don't be trite
I guess the husband gets a pass?????? Berry had to fire a drunk employee! You would too!
I loved this
Glad you enjoyed it!
Don't forget to subscribe ❤️