During Motown’s 50th Anniversary year there has been lots of attention on founder Berry Gordon and some of the legendary acts that were on his label. But let’s not forget about Suzanne De Passe. She may have started out crafting The Jackson 5 into a worldwide phenomenon but this sister has done so much more.
In fact, this visionary has had a hand in bringing some of our most beloved miniseries and specials into our home. And that was after she wrote the screenplay for “Lady Sings The Blues,” (who knew?). If you’re like me you can’t help watching every single minute of “The Temptations” every time it comes on. “The Jacksons: An American Dream”, has a similar affect.
But what you may not know is that De Passe has created projects that resonate with America as a whole too, like “Lonesome Dove”, “Streets of Laredo” and “Buffalo Girls”. Plus she didn’t forget about the kiddies giving us “Sister, Sister” and “Smart Guy” and Disney Channel’s “Zenon, Girl of the 21st Century.” Now let’s be clear, these are just some of her projects.
Last year, de Passe did something daring for the sisters too. She helped turn the phenomenally successful book, “Sex Chronicles” by Zane into a adult series on Cinemax. (And it’s too hot for me to include a clip on this site, LOL). Ultimately, De Passe has found a way to keep us all entertained by creating interesting programs that suit a variety of black girl’s needs.
But for me, it all kind of comes back to Motown. That’s because it was De Passe who produced the 25th Anniversary special that features Michael’s famous “Billie Jean” performance and moonwalk. Talk about a memory! (see below).
And here’s Miss Ross in “Lady Sings The Blues”
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