Diana Ross’ version of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” is just as memorable as Marvin Gaye’s. However, it almost didn’t happen. Can you believe that??
Ross’ version of the song was a bit lengthy. However, that didn’t matter due to her execution. It was majestic. Calm. Amazing.
Yet, Berry Gordy allegedly didn’t like it…
In a recent interview with Songwriter Universe, Valerie Simpson — of Ashford & Simpson — tells how Diana Ross‘ remake nearly fell through the cracks and was lost forever.
During the interview, Dale Kawashima asked Simpson if it was her idea to collab with the legendary songstress.
“Yes,” Valerie responded. “It had a lot to do with the times. People weren’t doing 3-minute songs anymore. Isaac Hayes (and other artists) had 7-minute songs. So we wanted to test that theory a little bit.”
