Alfa Anderson, lead singer of Chic, has died at the age of 78

The vocals of numerous disco-era classics have left a legacy that transcends generations

The voice of the clubs

Alfa Anderson, lead singer of Chic, has died at the age of 78. The cause of death was not revealed. Nile Rodgers, co-founder of the band with Bernard Edwards, mourned the loss in a tribute on Instagram. “Thank you for everything. RIP Alfa Anderson. CHIC organization. Always loved,” Rodgers wrote in a video accompanied by images of the singer and the song “At Last I Am Free,” sung by the artist.

The singer was born on September 7, 1947 in Augusta, Georgia. In 2018 he received the keys to the city in recognition of his contribution to music.

Career at Chic

Anderson joined Chic in the late 1970s, initially as a backing vocalist. Her first contribution was “Everybody Dance”, a hit that dominated the dance charts in 1977. After impressing on tour, she was promoted to lead singer, sharing the role with Luci Martin.

The album “C’est Chic” (1978) marked the singer’s consecration, with the solos of “At Last I Am Free” and “I Want Your Love”. On the same album, Alfa shared vocals on “Le Freak” with Diva Gray, one of the biggest hits in the history of the band and the Atlantic Records label.

In later years, she participated in music shows such as “Soul Train” and sang on several Chic-produced projects, including albums by Diana Ross and Sister Sledge.

Contributions beyond Chic

Before joining Chic, Anderson pursued a career in jazz, appearing in Cannonball Adderley’s “Big Man” show, which premiered at Carnegie Hall in 1976. He also recorded film scores, singing in productions such as the musical “The Unforgettable Magician” ( 1978), directed by Quincy Jones.

After the original Chic ended in the 1980s, Anderson remained active, working with names like Luther Vandross, Gregory Hines, Mick Jagger and Teddy Pendergrass. However, he did not participate in the comeback of Chic, which was in its second phase since the 1990s, and released his first and only solo album, “Music From My Heart”, only in 2017. He also founded the group Voices of Shalom alongside her husband, Eluriel “Tinkr” Barfield.

Source: Terra

Rose

Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.