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In memory of founding member of The Supremes, Mary Wilson,
The Supremes – Stoned Love
Written by a Detroit teenager, Kenny Thomas, for a radio contest for songwriting, his work was heard by record producer, Frank Wilson, who wanted to know more about the songwriter.
He met with Kenny and heard some songs he’d written and an unfinished version of “Stone Love”. Wilson was so impressed by it he left and set up another meeting with Kenny, this time bringing Supreme, Mary Wilson (no relation) with him!
Thomas was very surprised by the guest and proceeded to show it to her while working to finish it.
After a few lines were changed by the producer, the song was recorded in early 1970, while Jean Terrell, Mary Wilson, and Cindy Birdsong recorded their vocals in New York, and about 30 session musicians recording the music at Motown. Jean Terrell sings lead with Mary Wilson and Cindy Birdsong, backup vocals.
The song was originally, “Stone Love” but was misprinted on the label as “Stoned Love” which created a bit of controversy as some radio stations were leery about playing it, thinking it was a drug reference, which it wasn’t.
It raced up the charts after it’s October, 1970 releases, hitting the Top 10, peaking at #7, making the Detroit teen quite a bit of money and notoriety!
