Mary Wells: The Tumultuous Life of Motown's First Superstar

Benjaminson follows his definitive biography of Supremes vocalist Florence Ballard (The Lost Supreme: The Life of Dreamgirl Florence Ballard) with the first biography devoted solely to the tumultuous life of Motown hit maker Mary Wells. "My Guy" remains the singer's signature tune, but she was much more than a one-hit wonder (Benjaminson provides an extensive discography), and readers will be fascinated by the trajectory of Well's career, her personal and professional choices, and, ultimately, her tenacity. Wells was signed to Motown at the age of 17 after cornering label chief Berry Gordy at a Detroit nightclub. Success followed and she hit the top of the national charts. She regretted her decision to leave Motown at the age of 21 and never achieved the same level of success. Near the end of her life, Wells lost her ability to sing because of throat cancer. Through his extensive research and interviews, Benjaminson once again gives her voice.