For about the last hour or so there have been rumors online about the death of R&B soul singer Teena Marie. Roland Martin via Twitter shared with his followers that this rumor is indeed true, as he confirmed it with Teena's manager, Mike Gardner. WDAS radio in Philadelphia has also reported this story to be true. At this time, no details have been given about the cause of death.
At this moment I would just like to briefly reflect on a woman that had one of the most distinguishable and soulful voices in R&B over the last few decades. Folks who truly love soul music love an artist that is authentic in the way they sing soul music. This is the reason I think that so many lovers of R&B loved Teena Marie. She had a poignantly soulful voice that made you feel her authenticity. She was TRUE to R&B and soul music and you felt it with every note she sang. Though she was well known for her musical and personal association with R&B funkster Rick James, Marie certainly had a following all her own. Fan favorites like "Square Biz", "I Need Your Loving", "Lover Girl", "Oh, La La La" & "If I Were A Bell" still get heavy rotation on many folks Ipods & MP3 players today (Her ballad "Fire & Desire" with James is indeed a classic, and I would be remiss if I didn't mention it). She was also a gifted writer, composer and producer as well.
Over the next few days, we will certainly hear tributes dedicated to "Lady T" - for those of you who don't know her music I urge you to listen. A most unique singer of our lifetime has left us with some great music to listen to. I'm sure that after sampling her work, you will be compelled to own some of it. For those who know her music well, I know these times will be filled with reminiscing your good times and appreciating her gift. Thank you Teena Marie.
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