The Supremes receive Randolph well. In April 1967, Gordy then contacted Cindy Birdsong, a member of Patti LaBelle & the Blue Belles who superficially resembled Ballard, with plans to bring her in as Ballard's replacement. He made his plans clear to Ballard and her group mates at a mid-April meeting, and Birdsong was brought in to begin rehearsals. Gordy did not fire Ballard outright at that time, asking Ballard instead to quit on her own. Birdsong first appeared with the Supremes in Ballard's place at a benefit concert at the Hollywood Bowl on April 29, 1967. Following the performance, Gordy quickly learned
Mary Birdsong Mary Birdsong Mary Evans Birdsong (born April 18, 1968) is an American actress, comedian, writer, and singer. Mary Birdsong was born in Florida and grew up in Long Beach Island, New Jersey, one of five sisters. She played the role of Kai Mitchell opposite George Clooney in the Alexander Payne film "The Descendants". She may be best known for her role as Deputy Cherisha Kimball on the Comedy Central series "Reno 911!". She is also known for her Judy Garland impression. She is a former correspondent on "The Daily Show" and "Crossballs". As a voice actress, she has appeared in