Glastonbury 2022: Diana Ross and her journey to legend status
The Sunday teatime slot at Glastonbury Festival is widely known as the “legend’s slot”. The act playing the prestigious slot is recognised as a fourth headliner, often attracting one of the largest crowds of the weekend.
Indisputably a legend, pop-culture icon Diana Ross takes this year’s slot, performing on The Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury’s rescheduled 50th Anniversary. Regarded a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, the upcoming performance marks Ms. Ross’ first live appearance in the UK since 2008.
“To all my fans across the world, this is my tribute to you,” said Ms Ross. “Every concert feels like a private party, I can see your eyes and feel your hearts. I’m coming to Glastonbury, with love.”
Ms Ross is considered one of the most successful recording artists and entertainers of all time, with more than 50 number one hits around the globe and 100 million records sold. Here are the key moments in Diana’s legendary journey to The Pyramid.
The Supremes
Before going solo, Diana Ross achieved stardom with The Supremes, a vocal group who during the 1960s grew from struggling hopefuls, to Motown leaders, to one of the most successful recording acts of all time. Classic mass-sing-along hits include “Stop! In The Name Of Love”, “You Can’t Hurry Love”, and “Baby Love”.
Solo Success
Primed for a solo career, Diana Ross broke from The Supremes in 1970 and had immediate solo triumphs leading to more than two-dozen solo Top 40 pop hits. Among them are “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” (1970), “Love Hangover” (1976), “Upside Down” (1980), and “Endless Love” (1981).
Awards
In 1988, Ross and her Supremes partners Florence Ballard and Mary Wilson were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The singer received nominations for a dozen Grammy awards through her solo career and time with The Supremes. Diana was also nominated for an Academy Award via her starring role in Lady Sings the Blues, and has been honoured by the Recording Academy with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Praise
In 2016, President Obama said about Ms. Ross, “she exudes grace, her influence is inescapable,” as he presented her with the Medal of Freedom Honour, the most prestigious award given to a US citizen.
Legacy
Diana’s still-thriving, six-decade career was celebrated in 2019 with the documentary Diana Ross: Her Life, Love and Legacy.
