Labelle

Labelle is remembered as a groundbreaking American vocal group that pushed boundaries in the 1970s. Today, the group is inactive, following the death of member Sarah Dash in 2021. During their peak, they were known for blending rock, funk, and soul, and for their theatrical, space-age costumes. Their biggest hit, "Lady Marmalade," topped the Billboard Hot 100 in 1975, and the album Nightbirds went gold. They made history as the first Black pop group to perform at the Metropolitan Opera House and the first Black vocal group to appear on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine.

Though the group disbanded in 1976, their influence persists. Patti LaBelle went on to a successful solo career, while Nona Hendryx pursued avant-garde music. Fans continue to celebrate their legacy, and the group remains a touchstone for discussions of Black women in rock and pop. [edit]

Labelle's story begins in the early 1960s with two rival girl groups in Philadelphia and Trenton: the Ordettes and the Del-Capris. After both groups disbanded, members Patti LaBelle, Nona Hendryx, and Sarah Dash joined forces, initially performing as the Ordettes. They soon added Cindy Birdsong and changed their name to the Bluebelles, later styling it as Bluebelles. As the Bluebelles, they gained attention with ballads like "Down the Aisle (The Wedding Song)" and "You'll Never Walk Alone," becoming regulars at the Apollo Theater.

In 1967, Cindy Birdsong left to join the Supremes, leaving the group a trio. Manager Vicki Wickham, who had produced Ready, Steady, Go! and managed Dusty Springfield, saw potential for reinvention. She encouraged them to adopt a new name and image, leading to the formation of Labelle in 1971. The group embraced glam rock aesthetics, wearing outlandish costumes and addressing themes like sexuality and social issues in their music. Their early albums as Labelle were cult favorites, but it was the 1974 single "Lady Marmalade" that brought mainstream success, propelling the album Nightbirds to gold status. The group's final tour in 1976 led to their disbandment, with each member pursuing solo ventures. [edit]

Labelle's music evolved dramatically over their career. In the early 1960s, as the Bluebelles, they performed doo-wop and soul ballads, showcasing Patti LaBelle's powerful vocals. By the early 1970s, under the influence of Vicki Wickham, they shifted to progressive soul and funk rock, incorporating elements of glam rock and proto-disco. Their lyrics became more daring, addressing topics like sexual liberation and social consciousness. The signature sound combined driving rhythms, Hendryx's gritty guitar work, and the group's tight harmonies, culminating in the funk-infused "Lady Marmalade." Their later albums, such as Phoenix and Chameleon, continued to experiment with rock and electronic sounds, cementing their reputation as innovators. [edit]

Labelle broke significant barriers for Black women in music. They were the first Black pop group to perform at the Metropolitan Opera House and the first Black vocal group to land on the cover of Rolling Stone. Their glam-rock style challenged conventional images of Black female performers, influencing fashion and stagecraft. Songs like "Lady Marmalade" became anthems of female empowerment and were later covered by artists like Christina Aguilera and Lil' Kim for the Moulin Rouge! soundtrack, introducing the song to a new generation. Their fearlessness in blending genres and addressing social issues paved the way for future artists in R&B, funk, and rock. [edit]

While Labelle predates the modern fandom culture with official names and lightsticks, their fans were dedicated and passionate. In the 1970s, their concerts drew enthusiastic crowds, particularly at the Apollo Theater. After their disbandment, fans continued to support the members' solo careers. The 2008 reunion album Back to Now reignited interest, and tribute performances and retrospectives keep their legacy alive. The group's influence is celebrated in documentaries and music history retrospectives, with fans appreciating their pioneering spirit. [edit]

Labelle's rendition of "Over the Rainbow" was a staple of their early performances, and they recorded it as the Bluebelles. The group appeared on the cover of Rolling Stone in 1975, making history. "Lady Marmalade" was written by Bob Crewe and Kenny Nolan, and its famous French chorus translates to "Do you want to make love with me?" The group's 1976 album Chameleon was produced by David Rubinson and featured a more rock-oriented sound. After the group disbanded, Patti LaBelle, Nona Hendryx, and Sarah Dash reunited for a performance at the 2008 BET Awards before releasing Back to Now. [edit]