Diana Ross

USA, 1959–now

American singer who fronted the Supremes before a solo career at Motown, working across soul, pop and disco, and appearing in film.

MusicRoots documents 2 artists who influenced Diana Ross and 1 artist Diana Ross influenced in turn. Every connection cites a published source.

Who influenced Diana Ross?

• Billie Holiday — Ross immersed herself in Billie Holiday to play her in Lady Sings the Blues (1972) — Holiday's phrasing and vulnerability a direct model.
• Etta James — Ross grew up in Detroit listening to Etta James — the raw R&B power beneath her Motown polish.

Which artists did Diana Ross influence?

• Beyoncé — Diana Ross was Beyoncé's model of the all-around entertainer — the Motown glamour and crossover polish behind her star presentation.