Faith Evans visits Detroit to help prepare for Supremes role

Category: News Briefs Published on Wednesday, 05 January 2011 16:31 Written by Chronicle Staff

Fans of the Supremes, and especially of Florence Ballard, are excited that a movie is being made on the life and career of the late founding member of the legendary group.

The biopic, titled “Blondie” (an early nickname), is based on the insightful book by Peter Benjaminson, “The Lost Supreme: The Life of Dreamgirl Florence Ballard.”

The project has the support of the Ballard family, including her daughters Michelle, Nicole and Lisa Chapman.

In the starring role, at the request of the Ballard daughters, will be recording star Faith Evans, known for such hits as “Love Like This,” “Soon As I Get Home” and “Never Gonna Let You Go.” She was in Detroit recently to do research for the film, including a trip to the Motown Historical Museum. An event surrounding the project took place at Hot Sams Quality Clothes in downtown Detroit.

The Supremes, originally called the Primettes, made their first Motown record — as the Supremes — in 1961, “I Want a Guy.” It was only a very mild hit for Diana Ross, Florence Ballard and Mary Wilson. But from 1964 to 1970 the Supremes had a record-setting 12 No. hits, including “Stop! In the Name of Love,” “You Keep Me Hangin’ On,” “You Can’t Hurry Love,” “Come See About Me,” “Back In My Arms Again” and “Baby Love.” They became the most successful female vocal group of all time.

Ballard was forced out of the Supremes by Berry Gordy and Motown in 1967 due to personal issues. She died in 1976.