Remembering Vicki Sue Robinson: The Legacy of a Soulful Voice
From Broadway stages to the top of the Billboard charts, Vicki Sue Robinson had a career that cemented her as one of the most influential artists of her time. Throughout her journey, the American singer established herself as a diva of disco music, and her charismatic voice resonated with millions of fans. In this article, we celebrate Vicki Sue Robinson’s contribution to popular music by exploring her life story, her highs and lows, and her impact on the music industry.
Early Life and Bio
Born on May 31, 1954, in Harlem, New York, Vicki Sue Robinson was the youngest of seven children. Her father, Henry, was a Baptist preacher who was known for his deep, resonant voice. Robinson’s mother, Annie, was a homemaker who encouraged her daughter’s musical talents from a young age. It was clear from an early age that Robinson had inherited her father’s voice, and she began singing in church at the age of five.
After attending the High School of Music and Art in New York City, Robinson enrolled at Sarah Lawrence College. However, she soon realized that she wanted to pursue a career in music, so she dropped out to pursue her dreams.
Relationships and Children
Robinson kept her personal life out of the spotlight, so not much is known about her relationships or children. However, it is believed that she was married at one point and had a daughter.
Career
Robinson’s career began in the early 1970s when she sang backup vocals for the iconic singer Donna Summer. Robinson’s soulful voice brought a new dimension to Summer’s music, and the two women quickly became close friends.
In 1976, Robinson released her first solo album, “Never Gonna Let You Go,” which included the hit single of the same name. The song, which became a disco classic, earned Robinson a place in music history.
Robinson’s next album, “Vicki Sue Robinson,” was released in 1978 and featured the hit single “Turn the Beat Around.” The song, which was originally recorded by Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine, was transformed into a disco anthem by Robinson. Her rendition was a huge hit, reaching the top of the charts and earning her widespread acclaim.
Throughout the 1980s, Robinson continued to perform and record music, but her popularity waned as the disco era came to an end. However, she remained a respected musician and continued to influence a new generation of artists.
In the final years of her life, Robinson returned to her gospel roots and began performing in churches. She also contributed to the soundtrack of the Broadway musical “The Gospel at Colonus,” which was a critical and commercial success.
Sadly, Vicki Sue Robinson passed away on April 27, 2000, at the age of 45. Her death was a shock to the music industry, and many fans mourned the loss of one of the greatest voices of her generation.
Height
It is not known exactly how tall Vicki Sue Robinson was, but it is believed that she was around 5’6″ or 5’7″.
Top Songs
Vicki Sue Robinson’s career was defined by her powerful voice and her ability to create unforgettable disco anthems. Here are some of her top songs:
– Turn the Beat Around
– Never Gonna Let You Go
– Hold Tight
– So Much Love
– Daylight
Net Worth
It is difficult to estimate Vicki Sue Robinson’s net worth, but it is believed to be in the range of $1-5 million.
Legacy
Vicki Sue Robinson’s impact on the music industry cannot be overstated. Her soulful voice and captivating stage presence brought disco to a new level of popularity, and her music continues to inspire new generations of artists.
In recognition of her legacy, Robinson was posthumously inducted into the Dance Music Hall of Fame in 2004. Her music has also been featured in multiple films and TV shows, including “The Warriors,” “Boogie Nights,” and “Heroes.”
In a 1979 interview with Ebony Magazine, Vicki Sue Robinson shared her philosophy on life and the music industry: “Music isn’t about being ‘in’ or ‘out’. It’s about staying true to yourself and expressing what’s inside of you. If you do that, then you can never be obsolete or irrelevant.”
In many ways, Vicki Sue Robinson’s life and music embodied this philosophy. She may have left this world too soon, but her legacy lives on, reminding us all to stay true to ourselves, and to always express what’s inside of us.
