Patti LaBelle And The Bluebells: The Iconic Group’s Facts and FAQs
Patti LaBelle and the Bluebells were one of the most iconic groups of the 1960s and 1970s. With Patti LaBelle’s raw and soaring vocals, the quartet brought soulful sounds to the mainstream. From their humble beginnings in Philadelphia to their rise to fame, Patti LaBelle and the Bluebells are a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and talent. In this article, we’ll delve deep into the facts about this legendary group, including Patti LaBelle’s bio, relationships, career, and net worth.
Patti LaBelle’s Bio
Patti LaBelle was born Patricia Louise Holte on May 24, 1944, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. From a young age, she showed a natural talent for singing, and by the time she was a teenager, she had already started performing with local groups. In 1960, she formed a doo-wop group called The Ordettes, which later became Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles.
Age, Relationships, Children, and Height
Patti LaBelle is currently 77 years old (as of 2021). She was married to Armstead Edwards from 1969 until 2000, when they divorced. She has one son named Zuri and has been open about her struggles with fertility in the past. Patti LaBelle stands at 5’5″ tall.
Career
Patti LaBelle and the Bluebells first gained popularity in the early 1960s with their hit songs such as “I Sold My Heart to the Junkman” and “Down the Aisle (The Wedding Song).” They continued to tour and release albums throughout the 1960s and 1970s, but it wasn’t until their hit song “Lady Marmalade” in 1974 that they truly became mainstream sensations.
After the Bluebelles disbanded in 1976, Patti LaBelle went on to have a successful solo career. She released hit songs such as “New Attitude,” “On My Own” (a duet with Michael McDonald), and “If You Asked Me To.” She has also acted in several TV shows and movies, including “A Different World” and “American Horror Story: Freak Show.”
Top Songs
Patti LaBelle and the Bluebells have many classic hits, but some of their most famous songs include:
– “I Sold My Heart to the Junkman” (1962)
– “Down the Aisle (The Wedding Song)” (1963)
– “Over the Rainbow” (1966)
– “You’ll Never Walk Alone” (1966)
– “Lady Marmalade” (1974)
Patti LaBelle’s top solo hits include:
– “New Attitude” (1984)
– “On My Own” (1986) – a duet with Michael McDonald
– “If You Asked Me To” (1989)
Net Worth
Patti LaBelle’s net worth is estimated to be around $60 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
FAQs
1. How did Patti LaBelle and the Bluebells get their name?
The group was originally called The Ordettes, but they changed their name to The Blue Belles in 1961 when they signed with New York’s Newtown Records. Patti LaBelle joined the group in 1961 and they became Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles in 1962.
2. Who were the members of Patti LaBelle and the Bluebells?
The original members of the group were Patti LaBelle, Nona Hendryx, Sarah Dash, and Cindy Birdsong. Cindy Birdsong left the group in 1967 to join The Supremes.
3. What were some of Patti LaBelle and the Bluebells’ biggest hits?
Some of their biggest hits include “I Sold My Heart to the Junkman,” “Down the Aisle (The Wedding Song),” and “Lady Marmalade.”
4. Did Patti LaBelle write any of the group’s songs?
Patti LaBelle did not write any of the Bluebells’ songs, but she has written many of her own solo hits.
5. What happened to the Bluebells?
The Bluebells disbanded in 1976. Nona Hendryx went on to have a successful solo career and Sarah Dash began recording with Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones.
6. Did Patti LaBelle have a solo career?
Yes, Patti LaBelle has had a successful solo career since the Bluebells disbanded. She has released many hit songs, including “New Attitude,” “On My Own,” and “If You Asked Me To.”
7. Has Patti LaBelle acted in any movies or TV shows?
Yes, Patti LaBelle has acted in many movies and TV shows, including “A Different World,” “American Horror Story: Freak Show,” and “Star.”
8. What is Patti LaBelle’s signature dish?
Patti LaBelle’s famous sweet potato pie has become a cult classic. The recipe was created by her longtime friend and personal chef Norma Gordon Harris. Patti LaBelle also has a line of food products, including sauces, marinades, and baking mixes.
9. What awards has Patti LaBelle won?
Patti LaBelle has won many awards throughout her career, including two Grammy Awards, a BET Lifetime Achievement Award, and a Soul Train Music Award.
10. Has Patti LaBelle ever collaborated with other artists?
Yes, Patti LaBelle has collaborated with many artists throughout her career, including Michael McDonald, Elton John, and Gladys Knight.
11. Was Patti LaBelle ever inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
Yes, Patti LaBelle was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005 as a member of Patti LaBelle and the Bluebells.
12. What is Patti LaBelle’s vocal range?
Patti LaBelle is known for her powerful and soaring vocals. Her vocal range spans from soprano to contralto.
13. What is Patti LaBelle’s philanthropic work?
Patti LaBelle is a philanthropist and has been involved with many charitable organizations throughout her career, including the American Cancer Society, the United Negro College Fund, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
14. What is Patti LaBelle’s legacy?
Patti LaBelle’s legacy is one of perseverance, talent, and hard work. She has inspired countless generations with her music and is considered one of the greatest singers of all time.
15. What advice does Patti LaBelle have for aspiring artists?
Patti LaBelle’s advice for aspiring artists is to be true to yourself and never give up. In an interview with Billboard, she said, “You have to believe in yourself. If you don’t, nobody else will. You have to work hard and stay focused on your goals.”
