Recorded in February, 1963.
The Supremes made a series of change-of-pace albums designed to show off their versatility as all-around entertainers in contrast to the pop/R&B style of their hit singles. The concept here seemed to be to reveal the group's affinity for country standards like Willie Nelson's "Funny How Time Slips Away," the leadoff track. But Motown must have decided not to let much of the song publishing out -- seven out of 11 songs were written by producer Clarence Paul, either alone or with 14-year-old Stevie Wonder or company president Berry Gordy. As a result, the collection has an ersatz quality -- Nashville by way of Detroit. (Originally released on LP as Motown 625 on February 22, 1965, The Supremes Sing Country Western & Pop was reissued on CD as Motown 0327 on June 14, 1994.) ~ William Ruhlmann minimize