On this day May 14, 1981, Diana Ross made music industry history by signing a record breaking 20 million dollar contract with RCA Records after spending two decades with Motown. The deal marked one of the most significant artist signings of the era and symbolized a major career shift for Ross, who had become one of the most successful and influential female performers in popular music.
The contract with RCA was unprecedented in its scale, reflecting Diana Ross’s global popularity and her proven success as both a solo artist and former lead singer of The Supremes. Under Motown, Ross had delivered countless chart topping hits, award winning albums and critically acclaimed performances, helping shape the sound of American soul and pop throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Her move to RCA Records was seen as a declaration of independence, giving her greater control over her music and business decisions. The deal also set a new financial standard for female artists in the industry.
Fun fact: At the time, Diana Ross’s contract with RCA was the most lucrative recording deal ever signed by a female artist.
The contract with RCA was unprecedented in its scale, reflecting Diana Ross’s global popularity and her proven success as both a solo artist and former lead singer of The Supremes. Under Motown, Ross had delivered countless chart topping hits, award winning albums and critically acclaimed performances, helping shape the sound of American soul and pop throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Her move to RCA Records was seen as a declaration of independence, giving her greater control over her music and business decisions. The deal also set a new financial standard for female artists in the industry.
Fun fact: At the time, Diana Ross’s contract with RCA was the most lucrative recording deal ever signed by a female artist.
