The global influence of K-POP continues to grow, with last year's market size exceeding 8 trillion won. Following BTS, girl groups such as "LE SSERAFIM" and "NewJeans" have been gaining attention. "LE SSERAFIM" quickly climbed to 6th on the Billboard 200 chart, and "NewJeans" topped the US chart show immediately upon debut.

The precursor of today's girl groups can be traced back to the 1960s, to the African American female trio, "The Supremes," who dominated the Billboard charts. They are familiar to many through the film "Dreamgirls" (2006), prominently featuring Beyoncé's "Listen."

Chapter 1

The Chronicle of 'Dreamgirls' 

"Dreamgirls" has caused a sensation in the history of entertainment through its musical, cinematic, and musical iterations. Since its Broadway debut in 1981, it won awards at three of the four major American art awards (EGOT*). In 1982, it garnered six Tony Awards, receiving critical acclaim. Jennifer Holliday, who played Effie White, won the Best Actress Award, shining under the spotlight.

* EGOT refers to the Emmy (TV), Grammy (Music), Oscar (Film), and Tony (Musical) Awards, collectively known as the four major American art awards. 

The film adaptation of "Dreamgirls" in 2006 continued this success. Its soundtrack won two Grammy Awards, following the musical’s acclaim. Stars like Jamie Foxx, Beyoncé Knowles, Eddie Murphy, and Jennifer Hudson contributed to its popularity. The film won two Oscars, including Best Supporting Actress for Hudson and Best Sound Mixing, and three Golden Globe Awards, including Best Motion Picture.

Both the musical and film versions of "Dreamgirls" received great response from the public and critics. The musical was acclaimed as "the most glamorous show in Broadway history." The film was recognized for its portrayal of the realities faced by African Americans in the 1960s American entertainment industry.

Chapter 2 

The Origins 'The Supremes' 

"Dreamgirls" is based on the true story of the African American female singing trio, "The Supremes." Originally a quartet called "The Primettes" in 1960, they became a trio named "The Supremes" in 1961, with Florence Ballard, Diana Ross, and Mary Wilson. Their early days were challenging, initially dubbed "No Hit Supremes" due to poor performance. However, in 1964, their single "Baby Love" topped the Billboard Hot 100 for four consecutive weeks, marking a turning point. With twelve number-one singles, "The Supremes" became one of the most successful vocal bands of the time.

Despite their success, happiness was short-lived for "The Supremes." In 1967, the group’s manager, Berry Gordy Jr., shifted focus to Diana, believing her high-pitched voice would appeal more to the masses. This change led to internal conflicts. Florence, displaced from her lead role, became increasingly disengaged and struggled with alcoholism, leading to her eventual dismissal. She passed away in 1976 at age 32 from alcohol-related issues and depression.

 

In 1970, Diana Ross left "The Supremes" for a solo career. The group continued with several lineup changes but never regained its former glory. Despite internal conflicts and member changes, "The Supremes" are still revered as pioneers of female groups in the music industry, having sold about 100 million records worldwide. They not only topped the charts but also broke racial and gender barriers in the music industry.

Chapter 3 

The Story Behind 'Dreamgirls'

The story of "Dreamgirls" is based on the real-life story of "The Supremes." Characters in "Dreamgirls" draw inspiration from "The Supremes" anecdotes. In "Dreamgirls," Effie White experiences similar events to Florence Ballard of "The Supremes." She is replaced as lead vocalist by Deena due to manager Curtis’ decision. Effie’s subsequent departure from the group and the record label mirrors that of Florence.

 

The film and musical added dramatic elements that differed from reality. In the story, Effie has a romantic relationship with Curtis and becomes pregnant with his child, leading to her departure from the group. However, in real life, Florence and Gordy were not romantically involved. These changes were made to enhance the drama of the group's internal conflict and Effie's departure.

 

A significant divergence in "Dreamgirls" from reality is its ending. In the story, Deena and Effie, despite their conflicts, reconcile. They perform together one last time before announcing the group's disbandment.

Conversely, in reality, "The Supremes" did not have a happy ending. Fans hoped for a full reunion, but Diana and Florence never reconciled. Florence passed away alone after leaving the group, while Diana continued to find success in her solo career. The story of "Dreamgirls" represents the unfulfilled wishes and dreams of "The Supremes" fans.

The tragic tale of "The Supremes" inspired "Dreamgirls," which is now accessible in Korea. Beyoncé's dress from her role as Deena in the film is currently on display at the "Musical Special Exhibition: RaRa's Dream Theater." This exhibition, the first of its kind in Korea, showcases various memorabilia from musicals and movies, including "Dreamgirls," "The Phantom of the Opera," and "Mamma Mia." It is being held at the E-World 83 Tower in Daegu, Asia's premier city for musicals. This special musical exhibition is an ideal family outing opportunity.