The Supremes - The Supremes Sing Country Western & Pop (1965)

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. © William Ruhlmann