Singer · Actress · Mentor
Diana Ross
b. 1944
Connection to Michael Jackson
Diana Ross was an early champion of the young Michael Jackson. As the star of the Motown label, she helped bring the Jackson 5 to national attention, and Motown even framed her as the group's discoverer. To a boy from Gary, Indiana, she was both a role model and a glamorous glimpse of what stardom could look like. Jackson studied her poise and stage presence closely. Their bond stayed warm for years, and he later wrote and produced for her. He reworked the ballad 'Muscles' for Ross, naming it after his pet snake. The affection ran deep enough that many read the tenderness in his early work as shaped in part by her example.
Contributions
Helped introduce the Jackson 5 to a wide audience through Motown. Served as an early mentor and stylistic influence. Recorded 'Muscles,' written and produced by Jackson.
Interesting Facts
Was publicly credited by Motown with helping launch the Jackson 5.
Recorded 'Muscles,' a song Michael Jackson wrote and produced for her.
Remained a lifelong friend and influence on Jackson.[reported]