The Supremes hit No. 1 with 'The Happening' before changing their name
Go Deeper.
Create an account or log in to save stories.
Like this?
Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.
Today's Morning music is from "The Happening" by the Supremes, which was No. 1 on the Billboard pop chart 50 years ago.
It was the last single released before their name was changed to Diana Ross and the Supremes. It was also the last single released while founding member Florence Ballard was part of the group.
Ballard didn't like the decision to make Ross the star. She missed performances and studio sessions and was fired from the Supremes after showing up drunk for a show in Las Vegas.
Ballard died in 1976 after suffering a heart attack. She was 32 years old.
Turn Up Your Support
MPR News helps you turn down the noise and build shared understanding. Turn up your support for this public resource and keep trusted journalism accessible to all.