Known for her soul and jazz songs, Marlena Shaw passed away on January 20. The singer shot to worldwide fame with songs like ‘California Soul’ and ‘Woman of the Ghetto.’ Her daughter, Marla Bradshaw, took to social media to share this heartbreaking news with fans.
In a career that spanned over six decades, Marlena Shaw was a force to be reckoned with when it came to disco and R&B. The singer also dipped her toes in genres like jazz, blues, and soul to name a few. Marlena’s daughter posted a video on Facebook on Friday. In the caption, she shared the news of Marlena’s death.
Marla Bradshaw wrote, “It’s with a very heavy heart for myself and my family I announce that our beloved mother, your beloved icon and artist Marlena Shaw has passed away today at 12:03. She was peaceful. We were at peace. She went listening to some of her favorite songs.”
The singer’s death has left a major void in the world of music and of her fans. Reacting to her death, one fan said, “So sad that we've lost Marlena Shaw. Born Marlina Burgess in New York in 1942, she struck gold with 1969 LP The Spice of Life; it featured monster tracks Woman of the Ghetto and California Soul, written by Ashford & Simpson. What a voice. RIP.” A second fan wrote, “RIP Marlena Shaw. The Spice Of Life LP was one of those records which shaped my teens, but as a kid raised on jazz, I can’t help but love seeing Marlena in action with Count Basie.” A third fan mentioned, “Rest In Peace. Marlena Shaw. You will know her voice, you should all know her name! Remember. Such a special, natural gift. One of my favourite voices.”
The cause of Marlena Shaw’s death has not been revealed as of now. The singer passed away at the age of 81.
