Fontella Bass, singer of the hit 1965 classic “Rescue Me, died yesterday (Dec. 27) from complications brought on by a heart attack. Bass’ daughter Neuka Mitchell said her mother had been sick from the effects of multiple strokes over the past seven years.
Born in St. Louis in 1940, Bass was the daughter of gospel singer Martha Bass, and often traveled on her mother’s tours as a child. She shifted from Gospel to R&B at age 17, when she auditioned for the famed Chess Records as a duet artist. Her and duet partner Bobby McClure’s” hit Don’t Mess Up a Good Thing,” reached No. 5 on the R&B charts. Soon after, she co-wrote recorded “Rescue Me,” which went to No. 1 on the R&B charts and No. 4 on the Billboard pop singles chart.
She constantly fought for artistic freedom and royalty rights for “Rescue Me”, reaching a settlement in the late 1980s. Having a few modest singles after that, Bass recorded a gospel album in 1995 “No Ways Tired,” an effort which earned a Grammy nomination.
Fontella Bass was 72.
It’s with a heavy heart that we report the passing of Fontella Bass, soul and gospel singer behind the iconic song “Rescue Me.” She died on December 26th at age 72 in her native St. Louis, Missouri after suffering from complications due to a heart attack she suffered three weeks prior. The world has lost an incredible talent — not just for her singing but also for her influence as a powerful female artist.
Fontella was born on July 3rd, 1940 into a musical family; both of her parents sang in church choirs so it only seemed natural that music would become such an important part of her life. Not only did she develop impressive vocal skills early on, but she also learned how to play piano and organ. Her big break came when she was spotted by Chess Records producer Leonard Chess while performing at a local club in 1965; they quickly signed her up and released “Rescue Me” which went on to reach number one on the R&B charts.
Though “Rescue Me” remains Fontella’s most famous song, it’s far from being the only highlight of her career. She recorded several other hit songs such as “Soul Of A Man” and “You’ll Miss Me (When I’m Gone).” In addition to recording solo albums, she also collaborated with artists like Bobby McClure, Mavis Staples, Aretha Franklin and more throughout the years. Her impact will be felt long after her passing — may she rest in peace!
Biography Of Fontella Bass
Fontella Bass was an iconic American soul singer who tragically passed away in December 2012. Born and raised in St Louis, Missouri, she quickly rose to fame with her signature hit ‘Rescue Me’ which topped the R&B charts for three weeks straight.
Bass had a unique style that combined gospel-tinged vocals with bluesy melodies, making her one of the most popular singers of the 1960s. Her career spanned five decades and included recordings on several labels including Chess Records and Barclay Records. She also worked closely with renowned jazz musicians such as Ramsey Lewis, Art Blakey and Herbie Hancock.
Throughout her lifetime, Fontella Bass made significant strides in the music industry by paving the way for female singers during a time when they were not widely accepted or appreciated. To this day she is remembered as a talented musician whose legacy will live on forever.
Legacy And Impact
Fontella Bass had a huge impact on the music industry and the world at large. Her unique sound not only influenced many of her contemporaries, but it helped shape the course of soul music for generations to come. She was one of the first female singers to break through in a male-dominated industry, inspiring other women with her powerful vocals and determination.
Her music also transcended racial boundaries, connecting people from different backgrounds through its universal themes. It spoke to both young and old alike, resonating with listeners around the world while bridging gaps between cultures and eras.
Bass’s life and career will forever remain an important part of American musical history as she left behind an impressive legacy that continues to influence musicians today. Her songs continue to be covered by artists across genres, keeping her memory alive for years to come.
Conclusion
I. Summary of Life and Legacy
Fontella Bass was an American soul singer best known for her 1965 hit song “Rescue Me.” She was born in St. Louis, Missouri and began performing at the age of three. As a child she appeared on several gospel recordings with her mother before starting her own career as a R&B/soul singer. Throughout her life, Fontella also worked as a session musician, recorded duets with Bobby McClure, toured extensively throughout Europe and released many albums. Her legacy includes inspiring future generations to pursue their musical dreams and spreading joy through her music around the world.
II. Impact on Music Industry
Fontella Bass had a great impact on the music industry by paving the way for female musicians everywhere. She showed that women could carve out successful careers as solo artists and producers, regardless of time or place. Additionally, she played an important role in introducing funk-infused styles into mainstream music which paved the way for genres like hip hop later on in history.
III. Conclusion
The passing of Fontella Bass left us all feeling saddened but thankful for the incredible legacy she leaves behind; one that will continue to be remembered long after her death. I am grateful to have experienced some of her musical genius during my lifetime and can only hope that her spirit lives on forever through future generations who carry on the same passion for music within them just like Fontella did throughout hers.
