Marlena Shaw, the vibrant and genre-defying singer who captivated audiences with her powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence, has sadly passed away. The news of her death was announced on January 19 by her daughter, MarLa Bradshaw, in a heartfelt post on Facebook. Although her family confirmed that Marlena Shaw was 84 at the time of her passing, it is worth noting that she had long been reported to be three years younger.
Born on September 22, 1939, in New Rochelle, N.Y., Marlena Shaw displayed a passion for music from a young age. She began her musical journey at the tender age of 10, singing and playing the piano alongside her uncle at the renowned Apollo Theater in Harlem. Her talent and love for jazz blossomed, and she continued to perform well into her 70s, exploring various genres such as soul, funk, gospel, R&B, and disco, all while staying true to her jazz roots.
Renowned music critic Stephen Holden once described Marlena Shaw’s voice as a combination of Dinah Washington’s soulfulness and Betty Carter’s fierce intensity. Her unique interpretation of songs, like the jazz ballad “Cry Me a River,” showcased her ability to infuse emotion and depth into every note she sang.
Marlena Shaw’s repertoire was diverse and eclectic, ranging from traditional blues and Broadway show tunes to soft-rock hits and gospel hymns. She had a knack for reinventing herself and staying relevant throughout the years. Her disco era in the late 1970s brought her success with a smooth cover of Diana Ross’s “Touch Me in the Morning,” and later, her duet with Joe Williams on the mischievous love song “It’s You or No One” earned them a Grammy nomination.
One of Marlena Shaw’s greatest achievements was her rendition of the funk-soul song “California Soul,” originally released on her second album, “The Spice of Life.” Although it went unnoticed at the time, the song gained popularity in the early 2000s when it was sampled by hip-hop artists like Gang Starr and remixed by DJ Diplo. Its infectious rhythm and orchestral arrangement made it a favorite for commercials and soundtracks.
While “California Soul” showcased Marlena Shaw’s ability to capture the essence of West Coast cool, it was her politically-charged songs that truly resonated with audiences. Her protest anthem “Woman of the Ghetto,” co-written by Shaw herself, served as a powerful call to action, exposing the indifference of those in positions of power towards the struggles faced by black women in society.
Marlena Shaw’s music continued to inspire and influence generations of artists long after its original release. Her songs have been sampled and covered by artists like Ghostface Killah, Schoolboy Q, and Drake, sparking a renewed interest in her original recordings.
Beyond her musical accomplishments, Marlena Shaw will be remembered as a trailblazer and an enigmatic figure in the music industry. She defied categorization and embraced a wide range of musical styles, always striving to connect with her audience on a deep emotional level.
As we bid farewell to Marlena Shaw, we celebrate her immense talent, her indomitable spirit, and the lasting impact she has left on the world of music. Her legacy will continue to live on through her timeless recordings, reminding us of the power of music to transcend boundaries and touch our souls. Rest in peace, Marlena Shaw..
