Diana Ross Is Still 'The Boss,' Commands The Hollywood Bowl

Diana Ross

By Darlene Donloe 

At 81, Diana Ross has defied time.

The still-stunning Motown legend, who recently performed a two-night grandstand (July 25-26) at the Hollywood Bowl, brought the appreciative crowd to its feet on several occasions with her charismatic stage presence, impressive vocals, signature wardrobe changes, and classic long, flowing mane. 

Ross's performance was a testament to her enduring legacy as a beloved Motown veteran who emerged as the lead of one of the label’s hottest acts, The Supremes.

The Supremes

While documentary-style videos of her career played on a massive screen behind her, an 11-piece band and four backup singers, all dressed in white, took the stage. 

Ross donned a stunning black and white bejeweled floor-length gown, looking like a queen who was the belle of the ball.

The iconic star kicked off the show with her fan-favorite ‘I’m Coming Out,’ followed by ‘More Today Than Yesterday.’

Ross then “went back to Motown” with her Supremes hits ‘Baby Love’ and ‘Can’t Hurry Love,’ ‘Come See About Me,’ and ‘Stop in the Name of Love.'

She was accompanied on stage by seven dancers from the Debbie Allen Dance Ensemble.

She then went on to perform ‘Touch Me in the Morning,’ one of her newest songs, ‘Chain Reaction,’ and ‘Voice of the Heart.’ 

In 1972, Ross was nominated for an Oscar for her portrayal of Billie Holiday in the film “Lady Sings the Blues.”  She sang, ‘Don’t Explain’ from the movie for her fans before launching into ‘Love Hangover,’ plus ‘Home’ and ‘Ease On Down The Road’ from the film, ‘The Wiz.’

That’s when Ross made one of her classic wardrobe changes – this time coming back in a dazzling red dress. 

She kicked off the second set with ‘The Boss’ and ‘Endless Love.’ She invited her actress daughter Tracee Ellis Ross (‘Girlfriends’ and ‘Black-ish’) to see 'Endless Love' with her, but Tracee Ellis Ross admitted to being too shy to sing with her mother on stage.

Diana Ross and her daughter, Tracee Ellis Ross

“I go back to being five years old,” she said.  Tracee Ellis Ross warbled a couple of notes before shyly exiting the stage.

Ross continued with some of her beloved hits, including ‘Reach Out and Touch’ and ‘Upside Down.’

She also, surprisingly, sang the gospel song, ‘Amazing Grace.’ 

At one point in the show, Ross brought out her five children and grandchildren, including Evan Ross, Tracee Ellis Ross, Chudney Ross, Rhonda Ross Kendrick, and Ross Naess.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ross revealed that she recorded her latest album, ‘Thank You’, in her garage. 

Her daughter with Berry Gordy, Rhonda, came out to sing the song she wrote for her mother, ‘Count On Me’, with Ross, who said fans could find it on Spotify. 

Ross then did another quick change – this time emerging in a shimmering gold gown. 

For her third set, she kicked it off with the song, ‘Why Do Fools Fall in Love,’ ‘The Best Years of My Life,’ ‘Mahogany,’ and ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,’ and the Gloria Gaynor hit, ‘I Will Survive.’ 

Ross then left the stage again, this time returning in a sparkling white gown for the finale.

Despite her age, Ross's voice remained strong and captivating, showcasing her impressive vocal range. 

With her signature style and poise, Ross commanded the stage, engaging the audience with her charisma and energy. 

The Hollywood Bowl provided a magical backdrop for Ross's performance. 

Celebrities in the audience included Motown founder Berry Gordy, Motown manager Shelley Berger, Motown songwriter and producer William Mickey Stevenson, actor Colman Domingo, and legendary singer Freda Payne. 

Diana Ross's performance at the Hollywood Bowl didn't disappoint. It was a celebration of music, love, and legacy, solidifying her status as a music legend.