Singer Teena Marie Dead at Age 54

I don’t usually address celebrity news, but in this case I have to make an exception.

The legendary R&B singer of such hits as "Lover Girl", "Fire and Desire", "Portuguese Love", and "I’m A Sucker For Your Love", died today.

According to Teena Marie’s manager, Marie’s daughter discovered her body. Preliminary reports indicate that Marie, born  Marie Christine Brockert, suffered a seizure last month. However, the cause of her death has not been confirmed.

Teena Marie rose to fame during the 70’s and 80’s. And although her career was catapulted by her association with the King of Punk Funk, Rick James, Marie was a star in her own right.

Teena Marie’s death has touched me deeply, not just because I had the pleasure of meeting her several times, but because her gift to the world as a talented musician and stellar vocalist, will be missed.

Marie’s musical contributions left a huge impact on the Chicago music scene. She often played the House of Blues to sold out audiences and her fans adored her.

I fell in love with Teena after purchasing her “It Must Be Magic” album in 1981. I used to stare at the cover and wonder how that tiny little white girl could sing with so much soul and conviction. Marie is probably one of the few white artist who were accepted wholeheartedly by the African-American community.

It's seldom mentioned, but Teena Marie paved the way for artist like Christina Aguilera and Joss Stone, and many other white female artist who crossed over to the R&B charts.

Here is one of my favorite Teena Marie songs... Deja Vu.

Teena, I hope you don't come back no more. Teena's fans know what I mean....