Music industry legend Suzanne de Passe

Suzanne de Passe is a giant in the music and entertainment industry - a trailblazing record executive who helped Motown find such talent as the Jackson 5, the Commodores, and Rick James; an Oscar-nominated screenwriter (for "Lady Sings the Blues"); and a producer of the classic miniseries "Lonesome Dove." And at 78, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee tells correspondent Michelle Miller that she is still listening to her ear, and her gut, to find new stories to tell.
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[@ThebarredsAIband]

Vanessa Williams portrayal of her in the jackson 5 biopic was great

[@Mia7189]

I agree. That said, I think Ms. de Passe deserves her own biopic. Such a fascinating story.

[@derrick_smitty]

Yes it was

[@briankh2007]

Absolutely!!!!!

[@maryburrell3948]

I love that movie so much.

[@maryburrell3948]

She’s beautiful still at 78 years old. Just gorgeous.

[@RebelBuddha1971]

Always been fascinated by Suzanne de Passe. It boggles my mind there are people who’ve enjoyed popular music for the past 50+ years who don’t know her name.

[@LeonFowler-rz4gs]

I met Susan de Passe back in the days when I worked for Arsenio Hall and besides my mother she was and still is the most beautiful woman I ever met in my life, stunning, classy, elegant, and simply gorgeous.

[@mililaniman]

Thanks Suzanne DePasse for the musical memories. She still looks beautiful.

[@RaymondHng]

0:53 Lower case "d". *_de Passe_*

[@Realigndadjmusic]

And a beautiful heart

[@rashawnfredricks4700]

NO she don’t🤦🏾‍♂️😂😂😂

[@jaylene.turner6524]

She’s a very underrated legend! Thank you for spotlighting Mrs.Suzanne,CBS crew.

[@louiswatson6227]

I tip my hat to Suzanne de Passe, I was a blk kid growing up in Compton listening to Motown, I was born the same yr as Michael Jackson got to see The Jackson 5 live at the Hollywood Bowl in 1971 not knowing it was her behind their success at the time 👍

[@demondsims5411]

This woman discovered the greatest artists of our time and deserves all of the accolades and success. I loved what she said about Rick James. He too was a larger than life character. Rick's life deserves a biopic.

[@pjt3887]

Lola Falana deserves a biopic. As does Donna Summer. Suzanne's experience would be the perfect show.

[@pjt3887]

I agree he was a character. I love hearing Eddie Murphy's brother talk about meeting him on the Dave Chappelle show. I'm Rick James b****!😂😂

[@ravenc1298]

I am so glad to be hearing her story on a national platform!

[@ilovephotography1254]

I'm floored. I never had heard of this Suzanne de Passe before. She over the year has discovered, nurtured and brought forward so many music geniuses. For this, I'm so grateful for her gifts that she made possible for us all to enjoy. Thank you CBS Sunday Morning for shining a light on a Superstar that has been in my shadows.

[@DDot-im3jr]

Wow how have you never heard of Suzanne de Passe she's in 98%of anything told about Motown Black Music History 🎶🎵

[@Buildherup-w3b]

Amen

[@lab4389]

​@@Buildherup-w3b Second that Amen!

[@milesmorris9333]

In addition to Lonesome Dove, you might have seen a few more scripted TV projects she's produced under her own company. Remember Sister, Sister? How about Smart Guy? Or maybe you've seen The Temptations miniseries (which VH1 has aired in its entirety as a four-hour movie instead of two parts like it was originally broadcast on NBC)? She produced all of those.

[@alanhudson2999]

Where have u been?..Suzanne de Passe is a legend she was there with J5 from the beginning she was never in the limelight but she was the glue that kept them together she worked behind the scenes but made the artists look great 👍🏾 God you Suzanne u deserve it it’s your time

[@MM-cy1tc]

She is the power behind Motown and the Motown sound. She is Motown. Great interview.

[@DCGuy1997]

Well. Not really. She came along well after the Motown Sound had been established. She joined the company as a an assistant in 67. By that point the world already new about Motown. And Gladys Knight discovered the Jackson 5. No her or Diana Ross.

[@MrBarrywes]

Not the sound but great performers

[@dctalk1117]

A little too much credit. Motown was already very well established before she got there but she definitely came on board and helped keep the momentum going

[@traveonsmith256]

Cindy birdsong brought her to Motown

[@nealdavis6374]

This is why I love CBS Sunday Morning!

[@ericm.5408]

Me too!

[@Lovejazz01]

Beautiful Suzanne DePasse , as a life long fan of Micheal Jackson and Motown, always reminded me of my mother through the 60’s, 70’s and beyond , who was also one of the most beautiful women in the world, yet so ambitious and successful, my mother probably saw herself in Suzanne . You know someone is successful when they reach Suzanne’s age and talk about her successes yet never mention her beauty. Thank you Suzanne for sharing your gifts with the world and bringing entertainment to the masses.

[@RaymondHng]

0:53 Lower case "d". *_de Passe_*

[@DJ_Dutchess]

Fifty THOUSAND views on this post and only 579 likes tells you exactly what this incredible woman had to overcome to achieve success. Little has changed over the decades. Americans love the music and art of Black culture - imitating them, culturally appropriating them but still not liking them. We need to do better. I'm so glad she got her flowers 💐👑

[@leylandbrenner7110]

It’s up to over 1500.

[@sabrinaburnham4395]

Suzanne de Passe deserves all of her flowers and accolades. She also deserves a more in-depth documentary! Congratulations on being induction into the RRHF.🎉🎉🎉

[@joememphis1571]

A real literal living legend of the music and television industry. Suzanne De Passé looks magnificent for 78 years young.

[@RaymondHng]

0:53 Lower case "d". *_de Passe_*

[@chermainebigby5238]

The Legendary Suzanne dePasse 👏👏👏

[@mikeleismeinhd]

Always knew her story but am so glad she is getting the recognition she deserves for her trailblazing contribution to the music and entertainment industry!🎉

[@jhamilton59]

That 'death of art' statement resonates pretty deeply today...

[@chrispnw2547]

I'm glad she made it 100% clear. Whatever you make out of our current political moment, it is clear BOTH SIDES need a lot more humility and spend more time listening to those who differ with them or we will fail as a nation.

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

Thank you!!!

[@cherylrleigh1912]

Suzanne de Passe’s story is truly remarkable, a testament to vision, resilience, and groundbreaking achievements that have shaped the entertainment industry as we know it. She’s a multifaceted powerhouse: businesswoman, television producer, film producer, and one of the most influential women in music history - particularly in a time when women, especially Black women, were often overlooked and underestimated. Born in New York City and raised in Harlem, Suzanne’s upbringing was steeped in a rich cultural heritage, with a mother of Jamaican descent and a father of Haitian and French descent. Her background gave her a unique perspective that helped her navigate and eventually redefine an industry that was predominantly run by men. She graduated from Syracuse University in 1968, and from there, her career blossomed in ways that would shape the future of Motown and beyond. Her big break came when she started working as a creative assistant to Motown founder Berry Gordy. It was there that her immense talent began to shine. Not only did she help shape The Jackson 5’s iconic image, but she also played a major role in developing their stage presence and wardrobe. She had an eye for spotting and nurturing talent, and she brought that sharp instinct to Motown’s TV specials - including the legendary Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever. It was under her leadership as president of Motown Productions that she helped bring Motown's magic to the small screen, with projects that would leave an indelible mark on American pop culture. Suzanne's work with Motown laid the foundation for her career as an independent producer. After Motown was sold, she partnered with her mentor, Berry Gordy, to form Gordy/de Passe Productions, and eventually, in 1992, she established de Passe Entertainment. Her creativity and leadership have been integral in producing landmark television shows, such as *Sister, Sister* and Smart Guy, which not only entertained but also represented positive images of Black life in America. Her contributions in both music and television have earned her a place in the history books, and her impact continues to ripple through the industry today. Her commitment to storytelling also extended to the academic world. Suzanne's work was so groundbreaking that it became the subject of two Harvard Business School case studies. She was a professor at Howard University and is currently serving as the Producer-in-Residence at Emerson College, a role that allows her to pass down her wealth of knowledge to future generations. In 2006, she was awarded an honorary doctorate in Humanities by Howard University, recognizing her incredible contributions not just to entertainment but to culture as a whole. For years, Suzanne worked behind the scenes, ensuring that artists were properly represented and their stories told, but finally - with her recent induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2024 - she’s being celebrated for her monumental contributions to music, television, and film. Her induction into the Hall of Fame, specifically for the Ahmet Ertegun Award for non-performers, is a long-overdue recognition of her profound influence. It’s such a beautiful and important moment for someone who has spent her life elevating others. What makes Suzanne’s story particularly special is how she never allowed herself to be defined by the barriers she faced. Racism, sexism, ageism - she encountered them all, yet she didn’t let them stop her. Instead, she used her setbacks as fuel to push forward and prove that her voice, vision, and talent were undeniable. Her resilience is a powerful lesson for us all. Even now, at 78, Suzanne continues to listen to her instincts, create, and innovate. She’s still involved in new projects, like King, a film about the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and that speaks to her enduring passion for storytelling and making a difference. The fact that she’s still pushing boundaries at this stage in her career is inspiring, and it’s no surprise that her impact continues to grow. Suzanne de Passe is a true pioneer, and her legacy - one of breaking down doors, nurturing talent, and giving people the space to be their authentic selves - is one we can all admire. Her story teaches us not just about success in show business but about what it means to live a life of purpose, to honor one’s roots, and to create a future that others can walk in and thrive in.

[@bornrachel2000]

🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽

[@Buildherup-w3b]

That was thorough, well written and absolutely beautiful.

[@jacquir8331]

Thank you. Now plz ask Miss de Passe to produce a movie about her life. It would be a film the world needs to see.

[@robzphotoz5465]

Wow! What a legend! Hard to imagine the music we all love without her contributions and intuition! ❤

[@adnerbnomrah9076]

Incredible lady with an incredible talent.

[@kerryqueen2786]

Suzanne De Passe defined the entire musical score of my life. She is amazing.

[@RaymondHng]

0:53 Lower case "d". *_de Passe_*

[@jayt4835]

Her “death of art” stance is SPOT ON! Fun little interview. I’ve known of de Passe just as long as I’ve known of Gordy and Motown. They all came into my consciousness at the same time as a pre-teen thanks to various books / interviews / TV movies. But this was a nice (though brief) peek at her as a creative businesswoman.

[@stevencourtney7008]

What a legend and inspiration! She needs to write a book

[@NellieKAdaba]

I agree.

[@brownin329]

There is a biography about her: Motown's First Boss Lady, by Mark Mussari, but it is out of print.

[@stevencourtney7008]

@@brownin329 Thanks for the reply! I'll see if I can find an out-of-print copy. Would be great to get a bio directly from her though.

[@SydneyChandler]

Brilliant, dynamic and beautiful...I'm so glad that Suzanne de Passe is finally receiving the love and accolades she deserves.

[@nabibutterfly5385]

I never watched the “Motown 25: Yesterday, Today and Forever.” TV special when it aired on TV. But one day when I was in the Army and stationed in VA. I walked into a Video Concepts store in Springfield Mall. And they Motown 25: Yesterday, Today and Forever TV special was playing on a big rear projection TV. I was amazed at the picture quality. It was playing on a laser disc. I walked out the store with a Pioneer Laser Disc player and the Motown 25: Yesterday, Today and Forever laser disc. That was my first laser disc of just hundreds that I ended purchasing. Thank you Suzanne de Passe.

[@jonthomas8569]

“The death of art is to not have the person who is best suited and passionate to do what it is that they do.” Thank you! From someone who broke through all the boundaries. Well said.

[@RonaldMoten-n7r]

Suzanne Depasse is a Legend and she's Gorgeous as ever 🤩🤩🤗🤗❤️❤️ Thank You Queen 👍👍😀😀

[@knockshinnoch1950]

Another living legend who helped shape the careers of so many artists but has never quite received the recognition she deserved. At least finally some people are making amends.

[@barneslx]

Thank you, Ms. de Passe for your talent and vision. Thank you for all of the talented individuals you discovered and brought to the world. You are amazing! Thank you, Legend!

[@3v3ryBaddi3sGotAStory]

💐👏🏼👏🏼Amazing career! Thank you, Ms. dePasse, for bringing us such wonderful talent🙏🏼!!!!

[@khismet]

Absolute Legend ❤ She looks great!!

[@rr7firefly]

"The best person..." that is always the way to go when you want something done right.

[@erichill612]

I have always admired her. She's an amazing woman. 👏🏻👏🏻

[@roshellparker2992]

Suzanne to pass is a brilliant woman who brought brilliant acts of music to the world. Well then she should also get a lifetime achievement award at the Grammys.

[@larrytan73]

Sunday Morning is so important to american culture! Such a peacful vibe!

[@joannokin7083]

Good for her!!! She appreciates grit & merit!!! Don't be defined by the "isms"!!! Love that!

[@nicolehunter5927]

Thank you Suzanne de passe

[@Nena84734]

It’s so strange I’ve never heard of her but what a true pioneer, icon and treasure!

[@tremosley3773]

Having worked with her last year, I can attest to the wonderful person she is. This woman even now in her 70’s is a hard worker, she always put the right people in the right places, and no matter if you’re the person setting up the mics or your Stevie Wonder, everyone is respected.

[@clarawashington4341]

I admire this versatile talent and her dedication to her craft in the field of entertainment.

[@robertgreene4046]

i did'nt relize she is 78yrs old, but you can see she is aging, but has been helpful in the careers of many celebrities.

[@ilovephotography1254]

I bet Suzanne de Passe has so many other fascinating stories that I would love to hear.

[@teresasahli5891]

Thankyou! This was an inspirational piece - she is a beautiful soul -

[@Ruffina12345]

I have followed her for years!!!! Absolutely gorgeous!!!!

[@Broughton1128]

*You all forgot to mention that Ms. de Passe was also the Creator & Executive Producer of the hit 90s sitcom Sister, Sister.*

[@nicolehunter5927]

Yes If we read the credits. Thank you!

[@Broughton1128]

@nicolehunter5927 *Personally, I didn’t need to read the credits, because I manage one of the stars of the show. They left out a few other notable aspects of her career as well.*

[@larrymarshall8900]

That's where I seen her name in the ending of credits of Sister Sister. I didn't know she has something to do with Motown Records.

[@larrymarshall8900]

I don't think she created the show but she produces and I believe one of the EPs of the show.

[@Broughton1128]

@@larrymarshall8900 *She was the Creator & Executive Producer. And she sold the rights to the series in the early 2000s, which is why the proposed reboot never came to fruition. I know her very well, so I know that of which I speak.*

[@jeanetteschock4744]

Never heard of her but the gifts she has given us!!!

[@JohnClement-n5m]

Wonderful lady of accomplishment and distinction, intelligent and driven, that's why she's thrivrf all these years.. and i do remember her name as executive producer of Lonesome Dove, I've re watched it dozens of times, always entertaining, and her name always remained familiar, it's nice to see that she's a nice pleasant joyful person on top of being a good business woman, she's delightful, and a good interview from lovely Michelle Miller ws always..❤ New Orleans

[@alicefuller3071]

Great report! Glad it WASN'T said that she discovered the Jackson 5. GLADYS KNIGHT saw them first and made the introduction of the group to Motown. AND few know that dePasse has Caribbean roots. Raised in Harlem but her parents or grandparents are from the Caribbean. She was honored years ago at an event celebrating those in entertainment with Caribbean roots. She also produced the The Jacksons TV movie that played every year on some TV station for generations! Lawed! She's got more stories to tell than we'll even really know. I pray she writes a book or produces her own movie about her life.

[@dctalk1117]

Don’t forget Bobby Taylor

[@rashawnda-professor2999]

I'm glad that the producer mentioned Bluebelle and Supreme Cindy Birdsong introducing her to Berry Gordy.

[@michaelmonthey5974]

I first discovered Suzanne de Passé when she inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame last fall. Extraordinary career!

[@e.c-s8611]

Wowie - Ms. dePass has stood the test of time. Good to hear her share her experience. Can't stand Michelle Miller's voice. Jeez - one doesn't have to try so hard to sell her story.

[@kalaklah4848]

Thank you for covering this delightful Icon

[@akrenwinkle]

I recall when she was interviewed on some show decades ago, she was asked who was the most difficult artist she encountered. She thought a brief moment. "Pound for pound, Diana Ross."

[@genagena127]

Wow!! I never knew. Keep on rocking! And thank you for speaking on the death of art as I have not understood this movement and now I have you behind me to speak out

[@yvonneplant9434]

And racist MAGAs want to make sure no one else in the future knows this. 😡

[@marseanmoore1066]

A real pioneer. Thank you for all the wonderful memories. 😢

[@khalierobinson9904]

Shes also responsible for the sitcom Sister Sister.

[@NellieKAdaba]

I love Sister Sister.

[@cathleanjohnson675]

Will always remember her as being one of the creative forces behind the Jackson Five, glad she is still around and getting her flowers..

[@brittsavage7982]

A true Blessing 🙏🏿

[@milesmorris9333]

For those who have never heard of Suzanne de Passe before, you may very well be familiar with many other shows she's produced through her own company. If you've ever watched Sister Sister, The Temptations miniseries (which is aired as a four-hour movie on VH1 instead of the two parts it was originally broadcasted as on NBC), Smart Guy, or the Zenon movies produced for Disney Channel, you probably have heard of her through any of those and never realized it until now.

[@alicefuller3071]

YAAS! Come through with the TV credits!

[@loreneaustin5304]

Suzanne de Passe didn't discover the Jackson 5. Bobby Taylor of the Vancouvers discovered them and brought them to Motown. Please get the history correct. She helped them polish up their act. Suzanne added the shine to performers.

[@beautifulsoultress3078]

very true and she has to take some credit because as she stated she heard about the group and then went to Gary Indiana to see them perform in person She took the leap of faith of faith as a creative directive on a kids group and well history was made because of her instincts to go to Berry Gordy. They were saying Diana Ross discovered them.

[@kevingoins9858]

Absolutely correct

[@57bananaman]

Very true, though I think it was actually Gladys Knight who recommended them to Bobby Taylor after she saw them in concert. Bobby Taylor certainly spent a lot of time mentoring them prior to the release of "I Want You Back" and produced some of their earliest Motown recordings.

[@traceycamille]

A living legend ❤️❤️👑

[@ifsaica]

I have followed Miss de Passe career for some time. What I remember growing up was her name. She was always credited as a member of the music family. I always felt the women never ages, but her name was everywhere. Behind these great artists and musical, film productions was her name in the credits. It’s nice to see her coming out from the background into the forefront of her long career. Someone suggested she write a book. I would most definitely second that suggestion. I imagine it would be one large book. Blessings upon this hard working executive. With great respect on her staying power, and creativity may she be blessed with continued success. I’m Alex from LA 🙏💙

[@jako3214]

Can tell she's tough as nails but cool, classy, whip smart/amazing intuition (omg at 5:20 !) and still looking/sounding fab.!

[@lesal.1373]

When I was young, I wanted to grow up and be just like Suzanne de Passe! Women were not in the business side of the music industry the way she was. I was fortunate to do a few little things in the purple world before my health interfered. Suzanne is a legend!

[@cheryljonestwin]

Love this lady and her legacy. She is a gift to our culture and beyond.

[@mrmaxxx94]

Suzanne depasse always the truth. A lasting impression

[@kshelaanofelaas1967]

She's Brought Forth So Much Great Artists, art,performances, movies, Joy and Passion To Our World! Motown Is Respected and Loved The World Our and It Is Ours...American 😊😊😊😊😊

[@polotrey]

I'm glad she is getting the recognition she deserves. Very thankful that she convinced Berry Gordy to sign the Jackson 5

[@luistpuig]

I love what she explains begining at 6:50!! Awesome!

[@bluesyfunkyjazz]

Wow, this brings back memories. I totally forgot about her.

[@DependsonGod]

I have certainly admired Ms. Suzanne since watching the Jackson’s movie with Vanessa Williams, who was perfect for that part but I did not know the scope of her talents and achievements.

[@robertpea9198]

"Your Heart Belongs To Me" by the Supremes and "Shake Sherry" by the Contours both from 1962 playing early in this segment. Love it. Two early Motown songs that have been forgotten

[@pamparker4047]

She also produced lonesome dove tv series ❤❤❤❤

[@tobor58]

Powerful Beautiful Legend. ❤❤❤

[@mariannesnead6919]

Loved her work for the lonesome dove tv series❤

[@wrinthiak3431]

This lady is the stuff of which legends are made❤

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

Thank you so much, Suzanne!!! Thank you for showing us that "isms" shouldn't define who you are!!!!

[@woody2875]

she was involved in bringing Lonesome Dove to the screen

[@Storm-iw7sm]

She also produced two of my favorite sitcoms growing up. Sister Sister and Smart Guy

[@ShabbadooDaddy0]

I’m amazed at how many people have posted they’ve me known about her before this or her induction in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

[@Jack-ke5uv]

I've known about Suzanne since Mary Wilson's Dreamgirl book came out in 1986.

[@Booker3]

She is amazing 😊🙏🏽❤️

[@DC-vz8ec]

Wow. Never heard of her. She is amazing!

[@VettsClass]

Legendary 🙌🏿✨🎶👩🏿‍🎤🎷👸🏿🎺🎺🎥🎬

[@mwmacis]

6:47 wow, bold for CBS to air this comment. I applaud them for letting the subject state their stance than leaving it on the cutting room floor.

[@AlPenton-v5t]

An extraordinarily intelligent, beautiful and intelligent lady ❤❤❤. Live long and prosper.

[@pjt3887]

Ms. de Passe what an amazing woman.❤️🙌🏻

[@SWOOP_68]

Legendary Lady ❤

[@TechnologyTidbits]

Suzanne, how come someone from Motown has not insisted that Teena Marie get a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame?

[@laurastrobel718]

Agreed 🌟

[@MsTrinichic]

Just amazing! Now this needs a lifetime movie but for now...where's the extended interview???

[@Nilzebubula-Na-Gig]

What a powerhouse. Let us be defined by our HUMANITY and the HAIR-RAISING feelings of our ART and not our “ISMS”! ❤♾️❤️‍🩹

[@joestrickland5153]

THANK YOU 💪🏾

[@wallaceWellons-l3i]

MUCH LOVE LEGENDARY QUEEN

[@macekirkland6962]

This is a class act smart Lady.

[@Ariel-jf3ec]

Amazing lady

[@allthingsnu4673]

Great story and interview!

[@ccwoodlands1565]

Lonesome Dove was produced by her.

[@KreweOfBridge]

Real Legendary

[@harlemneedlearts576]

Ms. de Passe, send it back and make them spell your name right. They should have a graphic designer to make it right. You are a legend. #Harlem #Riverton. We could hear the screams from each household when Michael was on stage. EPIC productions.

[@marilynh.]

I remember Suzanne from back in the day.