Teena Marie’s Life in Pictures
Teena Marie’s Life in Pictures
R&B singer Teena Marie couldn’t just sing, she could sang. Also known as the “Ivory Queen of Soul,” the singer burst onto the scene in the 70s with a soulful voice that had everyone wondering whether she was a Black woman. That silky voice would be found on such classic hits at “Lovergirl,” “Fire and Desire,” and “Ooo La La La.” As we celebrate the legendary Teena Marie’s legacy, take a look at her awesome life in pictures.
Rising Star
Born Mary Christine Brockert in San Diego, California, Teena Marie spent her youth in “Venice Harlem,” a Black enclave in Los Angeles. By the time she was 19 in the early 70s, the former child star signed with Motown, making her the first White act on the label.
Wild Child
Despite being signed to Motown, Marie’s album wouldn’t be released for three years. Things changed when Rick James took Marie under her wing and wrote her album, “Wild and Peaceful” in 1979, which spawned the hit duet, “I’m A Sucker For Your Love.” Marie had entered the Black charts with ease, but few people knew she was White.
The Good Times
By 1980 everyone knew Teena Marie’s soulful pipes were all that mattered, not her race. She released two albums in 1980, one of which included the now-classic song, “I Need Your Lovin.'” She would also sing the fiery duet, “Fire and Desire,” with Rick James, which sealed her fate as a R&B/Soul icon.
Baby Girl
Marie gave birth to her only daughter, Alia Rose on December 25th, 1991 and soon stepped away from the spotlight.
Back in the Highlife
Marie returned to the spotlight when she released “La Dona” in 2004, which featured collaborations with Common, Gerard Levert and her last with Rick James.
Reunited
“One day [Rick James] was walking down the hall and I was sitting in Stevie Wonder’s office,” Marie told Rolling Stone of the first time she would meet her mentor and collaborator Rick James. “I would always be in there playing his piano and singing. Rick popped his head in there and we started having a conversation and after that we just became really close friends.” the two reunited for a special performance at the 2004 BET Awards.
Soul Icon
Marie returned to the spotlight when she released “La Dona” in 2004, which featured collaborations with Common, Gerard Levert and her last with Rick James.
Flying High
By the mid-00s, Lady T was back on the road on tour. The same year she was also nominated for a Grammy Awards 2005 for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for “Still in Love”.
Special Dedication
A former Motown legend herself, Marie performed at the legendary record company’s 50th birthday in Detroit, Michigan.
In Her Footsteps
Now performing as Rose Le Beau, Marie’s daughter Alia Rose is pursuing a career in music, just like her mother.
She’s a Champ
Marie performed at the 2009 ESSENCE Music Festival, the same year she released her 13th album, “Congo Square.”
Silky Soul
The “Ivory Queen of Soul’s” career spanned 40 years, and countless number 1’s. Her soulful voice will forever be missed. Rest in peace, Teena Marie.