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Alfa Anderson, the featured Chic vocalist associated with “Le Freak” and “Good Times,” died on December 17, 2024, at age 78. Nile Rodgers confirmed her death, according to news reports. The reports did not disclose a cause of death.
What is known about her death
The Guardian obituary gives Anderson’s birth date as September 7, 1946, and her death date as December 17, 2024, making her 78. Rodgers, her Chic bandmate, confirmed the news on social media, according to Pitchfork’s report of December 21, 2024. Pitchfork said Rodgers did not disclose a cause of death.
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The Guardian lists Anderson’s birth year as 1946, while a later Resident Advisor report gives 1947. The Guardian’s obituary supplies the full birth and death dates used here; the discrepancy in the birth year is reflected in the coverage.
Her voice in Chic
Anderson became a featured Chic singer after Norma Jean Wright left the group in 1978. She sang on recordings associated with the band, including “Le Freak,” “Good Times,” “My Forbidden Lover,” “At Last I Am Free” and “I Want Your Love.” These are Chic recordings, not solo releases by Anderson.
#1 Best Overall
- Record Label: Atlantic
- Catalog#: 782333-2
- Country Of Release: USA
- Year Of Release: 1991
In a tribute after her death, Nile Rodgers wrote, “Thank you for everything,” according to Pitchfork. The report describes the message as part of a tribute montage.
After Chic
Chic disbanded in 1983. Anderson went on to tour with Luther Vandross, then stepped away from touring and studio work in 1987 to return to college. She later worked as a teacher and principal at Brooklyn’s El Puente Academy for Peace and Justice.
Rank #2
Anderson and her husband formed the group Voices of Shalom, which released the albums Messages in 1999 and Daily Bread in 2005. Her later solo releases included “Former First Lady of Chic” in 2013 and the album Music from My Heart in 2017. The Guardian’s obituary recounts her career beyond Chic.
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For the best-known part of Anderson’s musical legacy, start with Chic’s group recordings of “Le Freak” and “Good Times.” To hear her later solo work, look for Music from My Heart. A Chic compilation and Anderson’s solo album represent different parts of her career; a group collection should not be mistaken for an Alfa Anderson solo release.
NHPR’s remembrance also recalls Anderson as the voice behind “Le Freak” and “Good Times.”
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