The Rhythm & Blues Foundation Mourns The Loss of Music Legend Teena Marie

The
Rhythm & Blues Foundation announced today that “we are saddened by
loss of our friend and R&B Legend Teena Marie”. A recipient of the
R&B Foundation’s 2008 Pioneer Award; Teena considered the
acknowledgment to be one of the greatest honors of her illustrious
career. Upon accepting her award in 2008, a tearful Marie said,
“Everything I ever asked God to give me, he gave me, and I have to give
him the glory. I asked my heavenly father to take my poetry and let me
set it to music, and he did”.

 

A statement from Damon Williams Chairman of the R&B
Foundation reads: “Teena was a true Pioneer of R&B music and a
Musical Bridge Builder. She brought people from all walks of life
together under the banner of soulful, heartfelt music”. Her amazing
voice and classic songs like “Square Biz”, “Lover Girl”, and
unforgettable duet “Fire and Desire” with Rick James will continue to be
played and enjoyed by the world keeping her presence alive”. “We were
delighted and honored to have her in our presence to accept her well
deserved Pioneer Award in 2008; she will truly be missed by us all”.

Former
Vice President of Motown Records and R&B Foundation Executive
Committee member Iris Gordy had this to say in statement: ‘Presenting
the Rhythm & Blues Foundation’s 2008 Pioneer Award to Teena Marie,
was one of my proudest moments, not only because Teena was most
deserving, but because she was like family and I knew how extremely
moved she was to have been selected for that particular honor”. “Teena
was a thoughtful, insightful and incredibly sensitive artist who
approached life like a knowing soul who had truly ‘been here before”.’
“Always a fearless songwriter and producer, Teena possessed a uniquely
recognizable vocal style”. “Her artistic light will remain incredibly
bright”. “She was much loved and will be missed beyond measure”.