Minnie Riperton, known for her remarkable vocal range and hit songs like “Lovin’ You,” passed away on July 12, 1979, at the age of 31. Her music and vocal abilities continue to be celebrated and remembered today.
Her early career in Chicago included working as a session singer at Chess Records, where she provided backing vocals for influential artists like Bo Diddley, Etta James, Muddy Waters, and Chuck Berry. Also, her work in these formative years helped establish her reputation as a versatile and talented vocalist.
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Minnie Riperton was the lead singer for Rotary Connection, an experimental rock and soul band known for its innovative sound and musical experimentation.
The band’s work, blending elements of rock, soul, and psychedelic music, remains highly regarded for its creativity and influence on the genre.
Minnie Riperton’s ballad “Lovin’ You” became a major hit in 1975, topping charts worldwide and showcasing her remarkable vocal range.
She was among the early celebrities to publicly discuss her battle with breast cancer, which she faced with courage.
Riperton’s legacy also includes her daughter, Maya Rudolph, who has achieved success as a comedienne and actress, notably on “Saturday Night Live.” The name “Maya” in “Lovin’ You” is a tribute to her daughter.
