Diana Ross and the Supremes: A Dramatic Departure with “Funny Girl”
Background
The transition from the infectious pop harmonies of Motown to the dramatic, theatrical world of Broadway was a bold move for any artist, but for Diana Ross and the Supremes, it was a seismic shift.
Their 1968 album, “Funny Girl”, marked a departure from the group’s signature sound, a calculated risk that aimed to showcase Diana Ross’s burgeoning solo career while still maintaining the Supremes’ brand.
The album’s tracklist is a veritable treasure trove of Broadway standards, featuring songs such as “People,” “Don’t Rain on My Parade,” and “I Am Woman.” While the Supremes’ signature harmonies are present, the arrangements are markedly different from their previous work. The orchestral accompaniment, the dramatic vocal delivery, and the overall tone of the album reflect the grandiosity of the Broadway stage.
Diana Ross’s performance is undeniably the album’s focal point. Her voice, already mature and expressive, shines in the dramatic ballads and up-tempo numbers. She brings a raw vulnerability to songs like “People” and a powerful, commanding presence to “Don’t Rain on My Parade.”
Ultimately, “Funny Girl” is a fascinating experiment that offers a unique perspective on the Supremes’ career. It is a testament to the group’s versatility and Diana Ross’s talent, even if it didn’t achieve the commercial success that was expected.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Funny, did you hear that? Funny!Yeah, the guy said“Honey, you’re a funny girl”That’s meI just keep them in stitchesDoubled in halfThough I may be all wrong for the guyI’m good for a laughI guess it’s not funny‘Cause life is far from sunnyWhen the laugh is overAnd the joke’s on youA girl ought to have a sense of humorThat’s one thing she really needs for sureWhen you’re a funny girlThe fellow said “A funny girl”