Marlena Shaw, a talented and versatile singer known for her jazz performances and iconic rendition of the 1960s anthem “California Soul,” has passed away at the age of 84. Her family shared the news of her death on Facebook, but further details have not been disclosed.
Born on September 22, 1939, in New Rochelle, New York, Marlena Shaw began her musical journey at a young age. She showcased her vocal and piano skills during amateur nights at Harlem’s Apollo Theater when she was just 10 years old. Throughout her career, she explored various genres including soul, funk, gospel, R&B, and disco, all while staying true to her jazz roots.
Renowned music critic Stephen Holden once described Marlena Shaw as a combination of Dinah Washington, with a touch of bebop, and a rougher version of Betty Carter. With her powerful alto voice and captivating stage presence, she had a unique ability to captivate audiences. Her performances were characterized by sharp, biting vocals, as she fearlessly bent notes and rhythmically examined each song she sang.
Marlena Shaw had a diverse repertoire that included traditional blues, Broadway show tunes, soft-rock hits, gospel anthems, and modern-day standards. Her disco era in the late 1970s saw her success with a smooth cover of Diana Ross’s “Touch Me in the Morning.” Furthermore, her duet with Joe Williams on the mischievous love song “Is You Is or Is You Ain’t My Baby” earned them a Grammy nomination.
One of Marlena Shaw’s most notable hits was her vibrant 1969 recording of the funk-soul song “California Soul.” Although it received little attention when it was initially released on her album “The Spice of Life,” it gained popularity in the early 2000s when it was sampled by hip-hop artists such as Gang Starr. The song’s catchy orchestral introduction and infectious rhythm made it a favorite for many.
While “California Soul” represented a sun-drenched image of West Coast cool, Marlena Shaw also used her music to address political issues. Her protest song “Woman of the Ghetto” was a powerful appeal to the apathetic power structure that failed to listen to the voices of Black women. This song, along with others, found new life through sampling in hip-hop and electronic music.
Throughout her career, Marlena Shaw released numerous albums and collaborated with legendary musicians such as Count Basie. She toured with Sammy Davis Jr. and experimented with a more pop-oriented sound, incorporating synthesizers into her music. Her album “Sweet Beginnings” became a success, and the satirical story song “Yu-Ma/Go Away Little Boy” showcased her trademark humor.
Marlena Shaw’s music resonated with a wide audience, and her ability to evoke emotions through her songs was undeniable. She was never confined to a single genre, always striving to make people feel something with her music. Her legacy lives on in the various artists who have sampled her work and in the hearts of her fans.
The cause of Marlena Shaw’s death has not been disclosed at this time. Her passing marks the end of an era in the music industry, leaving behind a remarkable body of work that will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come..
