Teena Marie: A Love Letter To You (PHOTOS x VIDEOS)

Dear Beloved Teena Marie,

I became totally fascinated with you many years after your career peaked. It was after listening to your classic album entitled ‘Lady T’ , that I became a true admirer.

I didn’t know at first that the soulful vocals of this intriguing R&B singer were of a white girl from California, and when I found out I didn’t care. In fact, I became more curious as to who this woman was that gave me goosebumps every time she hit one of her melodic runs.

Songs like ‘Ooo La La La,’ ‘Fire and Desire,’ and ‘Square Biz’ quickly became my all time R&B favs. Of course most people were first introduced to you in the ’70s when you were closely associated with the late great funk singer Rick James, but I became a fan three decades later. Your music still seemed relevant to me and my life. Even though many young people my age probably don’t know the impact you’ve had on R&B, your music always touched and moved me.

When you signed with rapper/producer Birdman’s record label Cash Money, I was super excited to hear your new material. Your music was funky, it was erotic, it was personal, it had substance, and most importantly it would connect with you and your lifestyle. Teena, we’ve endured the same ups and downs that life has to offer everyone and I’m glad the world had a chance to hear your ‘ivory groove.’

I’m now convinced that after all is said and done, you will become recognized as not only one of the most popular artists of your generation, but also as one of the most innovative R&B divas of your time.

We will always love you and miss you Lady T. May your music forever live on.

~Brittany Lewis, GlobalGrind Staff