Patti Labelle – The Music's Over

Died On This Date (August 12, 2012) Willa Ward / Gospel Music Icon

themusicsover August 24, 2012 2 Comments

Willa Ward
December 13, 1920 – August 12, 2012

Willa Ward was a singer who was part of one of the most influential gospel groups of all time, the Ward Singers. Formed in the early ’40s, the group, which initially included Ward’s mother, Gertrude Ward and sister, Clara Ward, became the world’s first, and at the time, biggest crossover spiritual groups. The Ward Singers released over 80 records during what is considered the golden age of gospel, the mid ’40s to late ’50s. Songs like “How I Got Over You” (one of Gospel’s first million sellers) and “Surely God Is Able,” and lively concerts helped them pack arenas and large theaters around the United States. They are said to have directly influenced Aretha Franklin and Little Richard. In the late ’50s, Ward left the group to sing pop music. Over the course of her career, she sang back up for the likes of Screamin’ Jay Hawkins, Patti LaBelle, and Chubby Checker. Willa Ward was 91 when she passed away on August 12, 2012.

Thanks to Henk de Bruin for the assist.

Musician

Died On This Date (November 10, 2006) Gerald Levert / R&B Great

themusicsover November 10, 2009 1 Comments

Gerald Levert
July 13, 1966 – November 10, 2006

Gerald Levert was a popular R&B singer who, along with his brother, Sean Levert, formed a group called LeVert in the mid ’80s. Levert was part of R&B royalty, his father, Eddie Levert was the lead singer of the O’Jays. LeVert scored several hit albums and singles during their 10+ year run. Levert went solo in 1991 and continued to release hit albums and chart topping singles. In 1997, he formed LSG, an R&B supergroup made up of Levert, Keith Sweat and Johnny Gill. Their fist album sold more than 2 million copies. Thoughout his prolific career, Levert collaborated with many other R&B greats. That list includes Barry White, Stephanie Mills, Patti LaBelle and Teddy Pendergrass. Gerald Levert, 40, was found dead in his bed on November 10, 2006. Initial reports stated cause of death was a heart attack, but it was ultimately ruled an accidental overdose of prescription and over-the-counter drugs.