Alfa Anderson, the distinctive voice behind disco group Chic's biggest hits including "Le Freak" and "Good Times," has died at age 78. Her passing was announced by bandmate Nile Rodgers on social media, though no cause of death was provided.
Born in Augusta, Georgia in 1946, Anderson initially pursued education, studying at Paine College and Columbia University to become a teacher. Her musical journey began in 1976 with a breakthrough performance as a backup singer for Cannonball Adderley at Carnegie Hall.
In 1977, encouraged by Luther Vandross, Anderson successfully auditioned for the newly formed Chic. After starting as a backup vocalist, she stepped into the lead role following Norma Jean Wright's departure in 1978. Anderson's powerful vocals became integral to Chic's most successful period, featuring prominently on landmark albums "C'est Chic" (1978) and "Risqué" (1979).
Beyond Chic, Anderson lent her voice to productions by musical giants including Diana Ross, Sister Sledge, and Quincy Jones' soundtrack for "The Wiz." After Chic disbanded in 1983, she toured internationally with Vandross before transitioning to education, becoming principal at Brooklyn's El Puente Academy for Peace and Justice.
Anderson continued making music into her later years, releasing her solo album "Music From My Heart" in 2017 and reuniting with Chic for their 2015 single "I'll Be There." Her enduring legacy includes Chic's "Le Freak" being inducted into both the Grammy Hall of Fame and the Library of Congress' National Recording Registry.
Speaking to Pop Matters in 2013, Anderson reflected on Chic's lasting impact: "They're imbued with a spirit that is all-embracing and universal... It still makes you get up and dance no matter where you are. It's just classic."