Though it’s not generally common knowledge, Tracee Ellis Ross is Diana Ross’ daughter. But with Black-ish, Tracee is doing well enough for herself that she isn’t simply known as Diana’s daughter—a pretty big accomplishment since this is Diana Ross we’re talking about. But sometimes you have to pay homage.
Tracee’s homage comes via a recreation of the video for “Work That Body,” a gem that came during Diana’s early ‘80s resurgence. You don’t get to hear Tracee singing, but seeing her in spandex replicating her mother’s moves is a joy in itself.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Tracee Ross joint if it didn’t have its quirks. She ends the video with a message for her mother. “Thanks, mom. What do you think?” she says, chuckling. “I think you’re so much hotter than me.”
As for why there’s a recreation in the first place, Trace took time to explain herself on her website, saying:
“My mom felt whole and connected …and in her body in this video. I have spoken before about encouraging women to shift our gaze from how we are seen to how we are seeing and, more important, feeling. And I saw a woman feeling joyful in herself as a whole being; she didn’t seem to be presenting her ass or saying look at all the ways I can make myself look appealing to YOU.
“So, I decided to recreate the video and try to feel the joy of being in my body while offering up tribute to my glorious mother. Hope you have as much fun watching it as I did recreating it, but most of all I hope it inspires you to find and be in the joy of your own body!”
Tracee Ellis Ross’ “Work That Body”
Diana Ross’ “Work That Body”