Marlena Shaw, the iconic jazz and soul singer, known for her 1969 hit song “California Soul,” has passed away at the age of 81.
The sad news was confirmed by Shaw’s daughter, Marla Bradshaw, in a heartfelt video posted on Facebook on Friday (January 19).
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of our beloved mother, the iconic artist Marlena Shaw,” Bradshaw said. “She peacefully left us today at 12:03 p.m. We had peace. Just yesterday, we celebrated her birthday, and we are grateful she was here with us.”
At this time, the cause of Shaw’s death has not been disclosed.
Bradshaw also shared that her mother found solace in her favorite songs during her final moments. “Right now, she is at peace. She is in heaven. I know that,” Bradshaw said. “She listened to some of her favorite songs.”
Born Marlina Burgess on September 22, 1939, in New Rochelle, New York, Shaw attributed her passion for music to her uncle Jimmy Burgess, who was a jazz trumpeter.
Under the stage name Marlena Shaw, she gained fame with her release of “California Soul,” written by Ashford & Simpson. The song, released in 1969 on Cadet Records, a subsidiary of Chess Records, became one of her most popular hits. Shaw also released albums such as “From different bags” (1967) and “The spice of life” (1969), which featured the widely sampled tracks “California Soul” and “Woman of the Ghetto.”
“California Soul” has been sampled by various artists, including Gang Starr and Stereo MC, and even received a remix by Diplo in 2008. The track was also licensed for use in several commercials, including those for Dodge, KFC, and Longshoremen.
In a 2009 interview, Shaw expressed her appreciation for her music being sampled, saying, “I think it’s great. I really do. Firstly, I love surprises and hearing someone else’s idea.”
Throughout her career, Shaw released recordings on labels such as Blue Note Records, Columbia, and Verve. Verve Records shared their condolences, stating, “We are saddened by the passing of Marlena Shaw, a wonderful singer whose ‘California Soul’ and album are as popular today as ever. ‘It Is Love: Recorded Live at Vine St.’ helped relaunch the Verve label in 1987.”
Live performances were Shaw’s passion and salvation. “I’ve been working live consistently. All kinds of venues, big bands, small bands – because I love it,” she once said.
In memory of Shaw, her family has provided an address for those who wish to express their condolences:
Mrs. Marlena Shaw and family
PO Box 335774
N. Las Vegas, NV 89033
Marlena Shaw’s music will continue to inspire and touch the hearts of listeners for years to come. Her legacy as a talented jazz and soul singer will forever be cherished. Rest in peace, Marlena Shaw..
