I wanted to post this last week, but didn't seem to find the time. R&B legend Teena Marie passed away December 26, 2010. A white artist who found her niche writing and performing funky R&B tunes, Teena's greatest success was with 1984's "Lovergirl." However, it's her Motown material from the late '70s and early '80s which most fans held dearest. her collaborations with mentor Rick James created some memorable funky soul gems, including "Deja Vu," "I'm a Sucker for Your Love," and "Fire and Desire."
As a teenager, I identified with Teena Marie to some degree. I was white, but grew up in a heavily African-American rural community in Southern Louisiana, so almost all of my friends were black, and we all listened to Earth Wind & Fire, The Commodores, etc. I was acutely aware of black culture in a way that many white counterparts at the time were not.
Teena Marie's premature passing (she was only 54 years old) reminded me a lot of my years as a teen and the many lessons I learned about respecting differences and the cultures of others. Teena opened a lot of eyes (and ears) to what accomplished musicians could be capable of. I sure hope Lady Tee has been jamming in heaven with those who've gone before.
Here's a link to a live perfomance of "If I Were a Bell."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHcB0c6BeMs
