Alfa Anderson: A Disco Legend Remembered
Alfa Anderson, the iconic voice behind the legendary disco group Chic and the hit song "Le Freak," passed away at the age of 78 on December 17, 2024. The news was shared by Chic's founder, Nile Rodgers, on his Instagram account, where he expressed his gratitude for Anderson's contributions to music and her enduring legacy. The cause of her death has not been disclosed.
Born on September 7, 1947, Anderson rose to fame in the late 1970s after being encouraged by Luther Vandross to audition for Chic. She became a lead singer shortly after joining the group, following the departure of Norma Jean Wright. During her time with Chic, Anderson contributed to several chart-topping hits, including "Good Times," "My Forbidden Lover," and the record-breaking "Le Freak," which was recognized as the best-selling single in Atlantic Records history for over three decades. The song was also inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2015, solidifying its place in music history.
Beyond her musical achievements, Anderson had a profound impact on education. In the 1990s, she transitioned to a career in academia, serving as a high school principal at El Puente Academy for Peace and Justice in Brooklyn. The school paid tribute to her, highlighting her ability to inspire and transform the lives of students and the community with her grace and wisdom.
Alfa Anderson's legacy extends beyond her music; she is remembered as a talented artist and a dedicated educator who touched many lives throughout her career.
