She was born in St. Louis in 1940, and her mother was a member of the Clara Ward Gospel Troupe. Soul singer Little Milton found her and she joined his band in the early 60's, continuing in that role until 1964. In addition to her excellent singing voice, she was accomplished on both the piano and organ.
Her musical director for a time was trombone player Joseph Bowie, brother of trumpet player Lester Bowie. She married Lester Bowie and in the 70's performed with the Art Ensemble of Chicago, leading to an album titled The Art Ensemble Of Chicago With Fontella Bass in 1972. She also sang the theme song Theme de Yoyo from the film Stances de Sophie, Les (1970).
Fontella Bass had a rich, exciting voice that was honed in her years singing with gospel singers and soul singers, resulting in her most memorable hit, Rescue Me, in 1965.
Ms. Minnie Riperton
1947-1979
Minnie Riperton's untimely death from breast cancer (in 1979 at the age of 32) robbed the world of one its truly great, truly distinctive voices. Her operatically-trained, five-octave instrument was the very model of beauty and control. Consequently, her signature tune, "Lovin' You," is likely the breeziest bit of pop you may ever hear. In addition to her own songs, Ripperton also makes light work of material as lovely and strong as Stevie Wonder's "Perfect Angel" and Joni Mitchell's "Woman of Heart and Mind." The only misstep, in fact, is yet another unnecessary take of The Doors' "Light My Fire."
--Michael Ruby