Uploaded November 2009 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago
Rita "Syreeta" Wright began working at Motown in the mid-60's as a secretary. She eventually was signed to the label and recorded demos for such artists as Diana Ross. In 1967, her first single "I Can't Give Back The Love I Feel For You" was released. It was a song written by Brian Holland and Ashford & Simpson and originally was intended for Diana Ross & The Supremes. Diana Ross would record the song in 1968 and again in 1971 for her "Surrender" album. In late 1969-1970, her name was changed to Syreeta and she was selected as the original replacement for Diana Ross in The Supremes because of their similarities in vocal style and physical appearance. However, Jean Terrell would be selected as the replacement in the group. In 1970, she would go on to marry Stevie Wonder. Even though their marriage lasted two years, their friendship continued and she helped write some of his biggest hits such as "Signed, Sealed, Delivered," "If You Really Love Me," and The Spinners' smash hit "It's A Shame." After their divorce, Stevie wrote and produced for all of Syreeta's albums with Motown including - "Stevie Wonder presents Syreeta." "Universal Sound Of The World" is rare gem from the 1974 album that showcases Stevie's brilliant songwriting and producing and Syreeta's incredible vocals.
Sadly, Syreeta lost her battle with cancer and died in 2004 at the age of 58.
****No copyright infringement intended****
Rita "Syreeta" Wright began working at Motown in the mid-60's as a secretary. She eventually was signed to the label and recorded demos for such artists as Diana Ross. In 1967, her first single "I Can't Give Back The Love I Feel For You" was released. It was a song written by Brian Holland and Ashford & Simpson and originally was intended for Diana Ross & The Supremes. Diana Ross would record the song in 1968 and again in 1971 for her "Surrender" album. In late 1969-1970, her name was changed to Syreeta and she was selected as the original replacement for Diana Ross in The Supremes because of their similarities in vocal style and physical appearance. However, Jean Terrell would be selected as the replacement in the group. In 1970, she would go on to marry Stevie Wonder. Even though their marriage lasted two years, their friendship continued and she helped write some of his biggest hits such as "Signed, Sealed, Delivered," "If You Really Love Me," and The Spinners' smash hit "It's A Shame." After their divorce, Stevie wrote and produced for all of Syreeta's albums with Motown including - "Stevie Wonder presents Syreeta." "Universal Sound Of The World" is rare gem from the 1974 album that showcases Stevie's brilliant songwriting and producing and Syreeta's incredible vocals.
Sadly, Syreeta lost her battle with cancer and died in 2004 at the age of 58.
****No copyright infringement intended****
