Over the course of Chaka Khan's storied career--from her funkdafied days with Rufus and Chaka Khan to her solo career as a pop/soul legend--she's gone through many professional changes, but one thing has remained the same: Her gloriously bountiful shock of wild woman hair!
Here, we take a look back at the 2017 ESSENCE Fest performer's most iconic mane moments since her earliest days an aspiring funk songstress.
Fresh Face
In one of her early portrait sessions, Khan pulled her full natural hair back on the sides for a half up half down look.
Ribbons in the Sky
In an early promotional shot, Chaka Khan flaunts her flirty side by adding girly ribbons to her fluffy, shoulder-length afro.
Queen of the Fro
Afro-tastic!
Chaka hits the stage with Rufus in full super-sexy mode—low-slung leather pants, a feather halter and an enormous afro.
Shagged Out
Boho Babe
In a 1975 performance, Chaka Khan rocks a sexy boho look in long, bouncy waves and a skinny, feathered headband.
Video Vixen
During an appearance on the UK’s video show, Music Box, Chaka Khan sasses up her long, bodacious bushy ’do by pinning it up on the sides.
Red Alert
At a Grammys ceremony in the mid-Eighties, Chaka Khan turned heads with her over-the-top, fire engine red crimped hairdo.
Wavy Baby
By 1994, Chaka Khan had deepened her haircolor to a glossy, dark maroon shade. We love the tousled bangs and long, thick waves!
Rapunzel Ringlets
Chaka Khan showed up to the 2006 Women’s World Awards flaunting masses of rippling, plum-streaked ringlets.
Award Tour
At Elton John’s 2010 Academy Awards Viewing Party, Chaka Khan hit the red carpet looking hotter than ever in a super-curly, shoulder-length do.
Cascading Waves
Chaka Khan attended the 32nd Edition Of An Evening Of Stars in 2010 wearing her signature burgundy curls swept over one shoulder.
New Look
Khan arrived at the 40th Annual Fifi Awards showing off her newly slim figure and her bold, vivid waves.
Red Hot
At the Hollywood Bowl opening night event, Khan rocked a wet-n-wavy look in her trademark crimson hue.
Check out more of Chaka’s fierce hairstyles during her live appearance at the 2012 ESSENCE Music Festival! Get your tickets now!
