Lillian Lopez
November 16, 1935 – September 4, 2012
Lillian Lopez is best remembered as the lead singer for ’70s disco outfit, Odyssey. Formed in New York City in 1977, the group initially included Lillian’s sister, Louise Lopez and friend, Tony Reynolds. Sister, Carmen Lopez performed with her siblings during their pre-Odyssey days. In December of 1977, the group scored a dance hit with “Native New Yorker,” which shot to #21 on the Billboard charts and #5 on the UK charts. Odyssey released numerous records over the next few years, but none did as well as “Native New Yorker” until 1982’s “Inside Out,” which reached #13 in the US and #3 in the UK. Much more popular in Europe, the group had no fewer than ten hits there including “Use It Up And Wear It Out” which topped the UK chart in 1980. Their music continues to be popular in the UK thanks in part to the Northern Soul scene. Lopez, the only original member of Odyssey, toured with them until her retirement in 2003. Lillian Lopez was 76 when she died of cancer on September 4, 2012.
Thanks to Craig Rosen at Number 1 Albums for the assist.
What You Should Own
Sorry to be picky but it was in 1980 that Use It Up went to Number 1 in the UK. RIP Lillian
Thanks for the mention of my mother, mentor, and best friend Lillian Lopez. Like the previous contributor Lloyd, I don’t wanna be picky, but it is widely reported that Mom died of stage 4 cancer. While the northern soul scene in England contributed to it, Odyssey’s music survived THROUGHOUT the UK and continues to do so across all manner of radio in the country. I have been a member of Odyssey since 1981 and the group, under my auspices, continues to record, perform and tour all over England, Europe, and other parts of the world… just wanted to clarify, but Thanks again for the mention.
Please could anyone inform me where Lillian Lopez gravesite is so I may my respects to this great lady and singer. Thankyou.