Marlena Shaw, R&B Singer Known for “California Soul,” Passes Away at 81
January 21, 2024
The news of Marlena Shaw’s passing was confirmed by her daughter, Marla Bradshaw, in a heartfelt post on Facebook on January 19.
Marlena Shaw, the renowned R&B singer known for her hit song “California Soul,” has tragically passed away at the age of 81. The news was confirmed by her daughter, Marla Bradshaw, in a moving video post on Facebook.
In the video, Marla Bradshaw, also known as “MarLa The Messenger Bradshaw” on Facebook, shared the heartbreaking news of her mother’s passing.
“Hello everyone, it is with a very heavy heart that I announce the passing of our beloved mother, the iconic artist Marlena Shaw, today at 12:03,” expressed Bradshaw. “She passed away peacefully, and we are finding solace in that.”
Bradshaw went on to explain that more details about her mother’s death would be shared in due time.
“I won’t go into too many details right now,” Bradshaw stated. “But as her fans, when it needs to be known, we will let you know. For now, rest assured that she is at peace, in heaven.”
A Trailblazing Career and Cultural Impact
Marlena Shaw, born on September 22, 1939, had a remarkable singing career that began at a young age. She first took the stage at the legendary Apollo Theater in Harlem when she was just 10 years old. According to Deadline, Shaw became a household name in the 1960s with her chart-topping hits “California Soul” and “Woman of the Ghetto,” which shed light on the experiences of Black women during the Civil Rights era.
Not only did Shaw’s music capture the essence of the time, but it also revitalized record labels within the industry. Her 1986 album “It Is Love: Recorded Live At Vine St.” released under Verve Records played a significant role in the revival of the label, as acknowledged in their press release following her passing.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Marlena Shaw, a wonderful singer whose song ‘California Soul’ remains as popular today as it ever was. Her album ‘It Is Love: Recorded Live At Vine St.’ played a crucial role in relaunching the Verve label in 1987,” stated the record label in their tribute.
One of Shaw’s most notable hits, “California Soul,” has transcended its original decade and has become a go-to sample for the dawn of Hip Hop. It has been featured in songs by artists such as Gang Starr, DJ Shadow, and contemporary producer Diplo.
The music industry has truly lost a legendary artist, but Marlena Shaw’s impact on the culture will always be remembered and cherished.
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