In reply to Coolness.

I think Diana Ross get's mad props for being a pioneer and one of the first Black mega/Pop stars, but like people have said, she is more revered for her general Pop appeal more than her vocal appeal, which I think her vocal appeal is underrated. But, that's not a bad thing. Her voice was different from black artist of her time, but that was her appeal and what made her more mainstream and successful in the Pop world than many of her contemporaries. I think the opinion of the appeal of her voice varies by culture. Her voice is praised and seen as beautiful for many non-blacks and or fans that prefer more melodic singing versus the soulful belts of traditional soul music, like Aretha Frankllin.

Most major stars including Whitney, Beyonce have revered Diana Ross as one of their inspirations. They are all successful in their own way and for different reasons, in different eras. But, there is no comparison in areas where they are more dominate and more talented.Everyone has their strong and weak areas as a whole. Whitney had the stronger voice, but not as versatile and talented in other areas, like acting or stage presence as Diana Ross (although I love Whitney's movies and concerts). The same can be said for Streisand and other stars who are revered for their vocals, but lack in other areas. Streisand wasn't popping in the clubs (except a song she had with Donna Summer). So, she is famous and revered in a different area.

Diana is a multi-talented, multi-talented, well rounded artist with an endless combined catalog and career starting with lead singer of the most successful girl group in the world to a Pop solo megastar who went beyond the boundaries of race. I don't think people forget, I think she doesn't need to remind people and is happy with both her past and present, unlike other artist of her era that wants to keep reminding people of their relevance.

But, in a way Diana Ross is more celebrated and iconic than her R&B contemporaries if you look at movies like Dream Girls and Sparkle being loosely based and inspired by her life as a Supreme, as well as the first Woman to headline the Superbowl halftime show. Her movies and their soundtracks have always been black cinema classics that have survived generations.