Gwen McCrae, the beloved and influential US funk and soul vocalist, has passed away at 81 after battling a long illness, leaving many in mourning. Known as the “queen of the rare groove,” McCrae achieved soul stardom with her 1975 hit “Rockin’ Chair.” Her music, including tracks like “All This Love That I’m Givin’,” “90% of Me Is You,” “Keep the Fire Burning,” and “Funky Sensation,” has been widely sampled by artists such as Lady Gaga, Cassius, Avicii, Madlib, Cypress Hill, and Mobb Deep.
McCrae’s family confirmed her passing in Miami, Florida, describing her as a talented artist who poured her love into her work and cherished her fans. Tributes poured in from the music community, with Disclosure and Dave Pearce honoring her legacy. Born Gwen Mosley in Pensacola, Florida, McCrae began singing in church and later found success in the music industry, eventually becoming a cult figure in the northern soul and rare groove scenes.
Despite facing personal and health challenges, McCrae continued to perform and record until 2012 when a stroke affected her ability to make music. She once expressed that the stage was where she found true happiness.
In a poignant declaration of joy, she proclaimed, “I am the most ecstatic woman on the planet.”
