Legendary R&B/Soul Singer Betty Wright Dead at 66
R&B Legend Betty Wright Passes Away at 66
The music world mourns the loss of Betty Wright, an R&B and soul icon, who passed away at the age of 66. Wright’s niece confirmed her passing on Sunday, May 10, though the cause of death has not been disclosed. Her death follows a heartfelt call for prayers by fellow music legend Chaka Khan just a week earlier.
“Calling all my #PrayWarriors,” Chaka tweeted. “My beloved sister, Betty Wright, @MsBettyWright, is now in need of all your [prayers]. ‘Que Sera, Sera | Whatever Will Be, Will Be.’ In Jesus’ Name, we pray for Sister Betty. All My Love, Chaka.”
Betty Wright, born Bessie Regina Norris in Miami, Florida, in December 1953, began her musical journey in gospel, singing alongside her family. By the age of 18, she had catapulted to fame with her breakout hit, “Clean Up Woman” (1971). The song became a timeless classic and marked the beginning of a storied career.
Her discography boasts other notable hits, including “Let Me Be Your Lovemaker,” “Shoorah Shoorah,” “Tonight Is the Night,” and “Where Is the Love.” Wright was celebrated for her ability to infuse raw emotion and authenticity into her music, earning her recognition as one of the most underrated talents in the industry.
In the 1980s, Wright made history as the first female artist to launch an independent record label, producing the hit “No Pain (No Gain),” which resonated with audiences and coined a now-famous phrase. She further solidified her legacy with the gold-certified album Mother Wit, becoming the first African-American woman to achieve such a feat on her own label.
Wright’s influence extended far beyond her own music. She inspired generations of artists, with Mary J. Blige sampling “Clean Up Woman” for her hit “Real Love” and Beyoncé incorporating Wright’s “Girls Can’t Do What the Guys Do” into her single “Upgrade U.” Wright’s mentorship and collaborations with younger artists showcased her commitment to elevating the music industry.
“I believe in legacy,” Wright said in a 2011 interview. “I believe in making the radio sound better. If I gotta listen to it, I want it to sound good. … I’ve got that mama vibe. I don’t look at it with an ego.”
Despite her professional triumphs, Wright faced personal tragedy. In 2005, her 21-year-old son, Patrick Parker, was fatally shot at a holiday party. The devastating loss inspired her to write and perform the heartfelt song “Dry Well.” In 2012, Wright performed the piece at a rally advocating for justice in the wake of George Zimmerman’s controversial acquittal.
Betty Wright leaves behind a rich legacy, not only in her five children—Aisha, Patrice, Patrick (deceased), Chaka, and Asher—but also in the countless lives she touched through her music and activism.
Her passing on Mother’s Day came at the close of a sorrowful weekend for the music industry, which also lost Andre Harrell and rock pioneer Little Richard. Yet, Wright’s enduring contributions ensure her spirit will live on, reminding us of the power of music to heal, inspire, and transform.
