R&B singer and songwriter Teena Marie, known as the first white act signed to Motown and dubbed the Ivory Queen of Soul, had died in her California home on Sunday. She was 54.
Mike Gardner, the singer's manager, said Marie (born Mary Christine Brockert) had died in her sleep. Lynn Jeter, her publicist, said she had suffered a grand mal seizure a month prior. No word as to whether the seizure had any connection to her death.
Marie joined Motown in the late 70s and often worked with the late
Rick James. Their relationship became personal and turbulent until James died in 2004.
Like James, Marie battled a drug addiction of which she triumphed. Her career spanned over 30 years and was known to embody African-American music, becoming a fan favorite amongst black audiences.
Her most memorable tunes include Fire and Desire, Square Biz,
Ooo La La La and Lover Girl.
An actual cause of death is unknown.
Photo via All Star Pics
Source via CNN
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