The Supremes’ Barbara Martin has died aged 76
6 March 2020, 10:37 | Updated: 13 October 2023, 13:59
The Supremes’ Barbara Martin has died at the age of 76, it has been confirmed by her team.
Barbara, who passed away on Wednesday, was part of the group from 1960-62.
The singer performed as part of the iconic Motown group and joined when they were called The Primettes, replacing original member Betty McGlowan.
The group signed a recording contract with Motown records in 1961, but Barbara reportedly left the group in 1962 when she became pregnant, leaving them as a trio.
Bandmate Mary Wilson paid tribute to Barbara, writing: “Our hearts go out to Barbara’s family and friends. Once a Supreme, always a Supreme.”
Fan account Supremes Archive tweeted: “#RIP Barbara Martin died yesterday in Detroit.
Read more: Gold's Hall of Fame: The Supremes
“She replaced Betty McGlown in 1960 when the quartet was still called ‘The Primettes’, and left in late 1962 when they were already signed with Motown under a name ‘The Supremes’, and the group continued as a trio.
#RIP Barbara Martin died yesterday in Detroit.
— Supremes Archive (@supremesarchive) March 5, 2020
She replaced Betty McGlown in 1960 when the quartet was still called "The Primettes", and left in late 1962 when they were already signed with Motown under a name "The Supremes", and the group continued as a trio. pic.twitter.com/9QMPK3wfiV
“Barbara decided to leave when she got pregnant, and got married. She stayed with the same guy, until her death. And never regretted leaving the group to start a family.”
The group’s most successful and well-known line-up included Diana Ross, Florence Ballard and Mary Wilson.
One fan wrote: “Thank you for sharing. Once a Supreme, always a Supreme.”
“So very sorry to hear this sad news! Love the Supremes! Grew up with them! Rest peacefully dear lady!” posted another.
