Alfa Anderson, the legendary vocalist behind some of Chic’s most iconic hits, has passed away at the age of 78.
The singer, renowned for her contributions to tracks like Le Freak, Good Times, Everybody Dance, and I Want Your Love, died on December 17, as announced by Chic co-founder Nile Rodgers.
Rodgers shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram with a montage of photos set to At Last I Am Free, a track showcasing Anderson’s soulful voice. In his post, he simply wrote: “Thank you for everything.” The montage included the words: “RIP Alfa Anderson. CHIC organization. Forever loved.”
Anderson’s music journey began with a featured role in jazz icon Cannonball Adderley’s Big Man, which premiered at Carnegie Hall in 1976.
Throughout the 1970s, she lent her voice as a backing vocalist to an array of artists, including Nat Adderley, Ray Barretto, Odyssey, and Roy Buchanan. She also contributed to the Quincy Jones-produced soundtrack for The Wiz.
Her life took a transformative turn when Luther Vandross invited her to a vocal session for the newly-formed Chic, founded by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards.
Initially a backing vocalist on the band’s early hit Everybody Dance, Anderson later joined the band as a lead vocalist, sharing the spotlight with Luci Martin from the late 1970s to the early 1980s.
Beyond her work with Chic, Anderson’s powerful voice graced recordings for artists like Diana Ross and Sister Sledge. She also toured with musical legends including Luther Vandross, Sir Mick Jagger, Gregory Hines, and Teddy Pendergrass.
In 2017, Anderson released her debut solo album, Music From My Heart, which she launched with a sold-out concert in New York, marking yet another milestone in her remarkable career.
Fans and fellow artists have taken to social media to honor Anderson’s incredible contributions to music. As a central figure in Chic’s success, her voice helped define an era of disco and funk that continues to inspire generations.
Her artistry and legacy will live on through her timeless recordings and the profound impact she had on the music world.
