Taraborrelli has written two previous books about La Ross, but the success of the Dreamgirls movie, loosely based on the story of The Supremes, has spurred him to dust off those interview tapes and have another go. His reputation for ‘controversial’ biographies (Michael Jackson, Madonna, Sinatra, Liz Taylor) might lead you to expect a rehash, or another of those bitchy expos�s aimed at tabloid serialisation. In fact, it’s much better than that.
As a former editor of Soul magazine, he knows his music and has spoken to a huge number of people who knew and worked with Diana from the earliest days. Although there are no shocks here, there’s a wealth of fascinating detail about her, The Supremes and the rise of Motown. Taraborrelli is clearly in awe, but he’s honest about Diana’s ruthlessness and the way she edged out The Supremes’ founder, Florence Ballard.
The post-Motown part of the book moves into standard ‘troubled diva’ territory, with drink, divorces and the saga of Berry Gordy’s love-child detailed. Mostly, though, it’s a feast for Motown fans, graced with good pictures and an excellent discography.
