Key Takeaways
- At 80, Patti LaBelle remains a musical icon, recently collaborating with Pentatonix for a Simpsons holiday special.
- Her seven-decade career includes two Grammy Awards and significant achievements in music and entertainment.
- Despite personal challenges, LaBelle continues to inspire through her artistic endeavors.
Patti LaBelle remains a timeless icon; even at 80 years old, the “Godmother of Soul” is alive, well, and as vibrant as ever.
Known for her powerhouse vocals and an illustrious career spanning over seven decades, Patti continues to shine in the spotlight.
Patti LaBelle Is Still Making Waves
Fans of Patti LaBelle will be thrilled to know that she is not only alive but still actively sharing her talents.
She recently teamed up with the a cappella group Pentatonix for “The Simpsons” holiday special, O C’mon All Ye Faithful.
The special, which will premiere on Disney+ this December, marks 35 years since the original Simpsons holiday episode.
A Career That Defines Longevity
Born Patricia Louise Holte on May 24, 1944, Patti LaBelle rose to fame as the lead singer of the vocal group Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles.
The group later became Labelle and achieved monumental success with the chart-topping hit “Lady Marmalade.”
After the group disbanded in 1976, Patti embarked on a solo career that solidified her status as a music legend.
From “If Only You Knew” to “On My Own,” Patti’s songs have transcended generations.
Her achievements include two Grammy Awards, induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame, and a spot on Rolling Stone’s list of the 100 Greatest Singers.
Patti’s influence extends beyond music, with a successful acting career, bestselling cookbooks, and her iconic Patti’s Sweet Potato Pie, which became a cultural phenomenon.
Challenges That Shaped Her
While Patti LaBelle’s life has been filled with triumphs, she has also faced personal challenges.
She experienced the devastating loss of her parents and all three of her sisters to illness.
These experiences shaped her perspective on life, driving her to live fully and share her joy with others.
Patti has also been open about her own health journey, including her battle with diabetes.
As a result, she has used her platform to raise awareness and advocate for healthier lifestyles.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Despite leaving John Bartram High School just short of graduation in 1962, Patti LaBelle later returned in her thirties to complete her diploma.
- LaBelle holds an honorary membership in the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority.
- In 2015, her Patti’s Sweet Potato Pie experienced massive sales after a YouTube video unexpectedly went viral.
