Mary Wilson of The Supremes dies
The longest-reigning original members of The Supremes has passed away at the age of 76
Last updated 9th Feb 2021
Mary Wilson, the longest-reigning original member of The Supremes, has died at the age of 76.
Wilson died in Las Vegas, according to her publicist Jay Schwartz. Details surrounding her death have not yet been made public.
Wilson had recently announced that she was working on brand new solo material, days before her passing.
Mary Wilson, Diana Ross and Florence Ballard made up the first successful configuration of The Supremes. The Detroit-based group originally formed in 1959 as a quartet with Barbara Martin named The Primettes, when Wilson was aged just 15-years-old.
Wilson stayed with The Supremes until it was officially disbanded by Motown in 1977.
Berry Gordy, founder of Motown Records, stated, "I was extremely shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of a major member of the Motown family, Mary Wilson of the Supremes."
Bruce Resnikoff, President of Universal Music Enterprises, stated "The world has last one of its greatest legends...Her voice captivated the world, and her infectious laughter and spirit delighter her fans".
The group’s first number one, million-selling song, 'Where Did Our Love Go,' was released June 17, 1964. The group went onto release other top hits like 'Stop! In The Name of Love' and 'You Can't Hurry Love'.