Alfa Anderson has died (Image: WireImage)
Chic’s legendary lead singer Alfa Anderson has passed away at the age of 78. Her fellow band member Nile Rodgers took to to announce the heartbreaking news, posting a heartfelt “thank you for everything” alongside a series of photographs celebrating their time together in the band.
He continued with a tribute, saying: “RIP Alfa Anderson CHIC Organization forever loved.” Devastated fans joined him in expressing their condolences online.
One fan remarked: “That’s sad news. Everyone should read her Wikipedia bio. Aside from being an amazing singer, she was a high school principal in NY in later life as well having a Master’s degree in English from Colombia University.”
Another shared their sorrow, commenting: “Awww man, another one of the key figures in the Chic organization has gained her wings. What a soulful and sensual voice and beautiful presence. #RIP.”
Details surrounding her death were not disclosed, but a fan noted: “Aw. [songwriter] Valerie Simpson was just asking for prayers for her . May she rest in peace,” reports .
Singer Nile Rodgers, singer Cher and singer Alfa Anderson together (Image: Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images)
Alfa became a part of Chic in 1977 after being persuaded to try out as a backup singer. She featured on the group’s first album, which produced the number one hit Dance, Dance, Dance, and saw Everybody Dance climb the charts too.
Following Norma Jean Wright’s departure, Alfa stepped up as one of the lead vocalists.
The band achieved massive success with hits like Le Freak in 1978, Good Times, and My Forbidden Lover in 1979. At the peak of Chic’s popularity, Alfa graced various television shows, including Top of the Pops, and contributed to Chic-produced tracks for icons such as Diana Ross and Sister Sledge.
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Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards, the founders of Chic, disbanded the original group in 1983. Alfa then embarked on an international tour with Luther Vandross throughout the 80s.
The band Chic has since been revived with a fresh line-up and has been performing on tour in recent years.
Over the years, Alfa collaborated with a host of artists, including Bryan Adams and Mick Jagger. She later pursued a second master’s degree in educational leadership and took up the role of a high school principal in the 90s.
However, her passion for music remained undiminished, leading to the release of Former First Lady of Chic in 2013 and the album Music from My Heart in 2017.
She also hit the road with former Chic members Norma Jean Wright and Luci Martin.