Betty Wright was an American soul and R&B singer-songwriter who was born on December 21, 1953, in Miami, Florida, and passed away on May 10, 2020. She began her career at a young age, singing in her family’s gospel group, the Echoes of Joy, and recorded her first album, “My First Time Around,” at the age of 14.
Wright’s music career spanned over five decades, during which she released several albums and hit singles that became classics of the soul and R&B genres. Her signature song, “Clean Up Woman,” released in 1971, is a funk classic that has been sampled and covered by many artists.
In addition to being a talented singer, Wright was also a prolific songwriter and producer, working with a number of prominent artists in the industry, including Stevie Wonder, Jennifer Lopez, and Beyoncé. Her influence on the music industry is evident in the many awards and accolades she received throughout her career, including a Grammy Award in 1976 for Best R&B Song for “Where Is the Love.”
Throughout her life, Wright was also known for her activism and philanthropy, supporting various causes and organizations. She established the Betty Wright Foundation in 2011, which focused on helping young people in underprivileged communities develop their musical talents and pursue their dreams.
In summary, Betty Wright was a talented and influential singer-songwriter, producer, and philanthropist who made a significant impact on the music industry and beyond.