Renowned Jazz and R&B Singer Marlena Shaw Passes Away at 81
Marlena Shaw, a legendary jazz and R&B singer, passed away on Friday at the age of 81, as announced in a heartfelt Facebook post by her daughter.
In a video post, Marla Bradshaw, Shaw’s daughter, expressed her deep sorrow and shared the news of her mother’s passing. She said, “It is with a very heavy heart for me and my family that I announce that our beloved mother, your beloved icon and artist Marlena Shaw is dead.”
No specific cause of death has been disclosed, but Bradshaw mentioned that her mother’s passing was peaceful. She added, “She went to listen to some of her favorite songs,” indicating that Shaw’s final moments were spent in tranquility.
A Musical Journey Filled with Soulful Rhythms
Marlena Shaw, born in New Rochelle in 1942, discovered her love for music at a young age. At the tender age of 10, she showcased her talent by performing at the iconic Apollo Theater in Harlem, leaving audiences spellbound.
Her breakthrough came in the 1960s when she was discovered by Chess Records. From there, Shaw’s career soared, and she went on to release 17 albums on eight different labels.
Shaw’s soulful voice resonated with listeners around the world. Her hit songs, including “California Soul” and “Woman of the Ghetto,” became anthems of a generation. Other notable tracks in her repertoire include “Feel Like Making Love,” “Loving You Was Like A Party,” “Is You or Is You Ain’t My Baby,” and “Go Away Little Boy.”
A Voice for Resilience and Empowerment
During a time of heightened racial tensions in the United States, Marlena Shaw’s music served as a powerful voice for the black community, emphasizing the strength and resilience of black women. Her lyrics struck a chord with listeners, offering solace and inspiration during challenging times.
Verve Records, with whom Shaw collaborated in 1987, expressed their sadness over her passing. The record label praised her as a phenomenal singer, highlighting her enduring hit “California Soul” and her album “It Is Love: Recorded Live At Vine St.,” which played a significant role in reinvigorating the Verve label.
Farewell to a Musical Legend
The world mourns the loss of Marlena Shaw, a true icon in the world of jazz and R&B. Her soulful voice and powerful lyrics touched the hearts of millions, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.
While the cause of her death remains undisclosed, Shaw’s legacy will live on through her timeless music and the inspiration she brought to the world. Her contributions to the music industry will continue to be celebrated and cherished by fans and fellow artists alike.
Rest in peace, Marlena Shaw.
Source link: https://www.nydailynews.com/2024/01/21/marlena-shaw-dead-81-jazz-singer-california-soul/
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