Alfa Anderson Co-singer From Chic Passed Away At 78

Alfa Anderson, known for her role as co-lead singer of the iconic band Chic, has died at the age of 78. The news was confirmed by Chic’s bandleader, Nile Rodgers, in a social media post. Rodgers provided no details about her passing but shared a heartfelt tribute featuring hashtags such as #restinpoweralfaanderson and #wearefamily.

A Voice Behind Chic’s Hits

Anderson’s vocals were a defining element of Chic’s success during her time with the band. She joined Chic in 1977, contributing backing vocals to classics like “Le Freak,” “Good Times,” and “My Forbidden Love.” She also delivered lead vocals on tracks such as “I Want Your Love” and “At Last I Am Free.” Anderson remained with Chic until their initial breakup in 1983.

A Diverse Career

Before her time with Chic, Anderson worked as a backing vocalist for several renowned artists, including Dionne Warwick. In the 1980s, she toured with Luther Vandross and lent her voice to recordings by Mick Jagger, Bryan Adams, and Billy Squier, among others.

Later in life, Anderson pursued a career in education, becoming the principal of a New York high school while continuing to create music. She reunited with Nile Rodgers for Chic’s 2015 track “I’ll Be There” and released her debut solo album, Music From My Heart, in 2017.

Reflecting on Her Chic Journey

In a 2018 interview with R&B Junkie, Anderson revealed her initial hesitation about joining Chic. Encouraged by her friend Luther Vandross, she auditioned after learning the band’s music was categorized as disco—a label she initially resisted. “Disco! Are you for real? We aren’t disco artists, we are R&B artists,” she recalled thinking. But her doubts faded when she heard Chic’s track “Dance, Dance, Dance,” which she described as “perfection.”

Anderson looked back fondly on her career, highlighting the enduring popularity of Chic’s music. “Many of the classic songs on which I sang are still being played somewhere in the world every day,” she said. Tracks like “Le Freak” and “Good Times” continue to resonate, being featured in movie soundtracks and commercials, introducing new generations to Chic’s legacy.

A Lasting Legacy

Alfa Anderson’s contributions to music extend far beyond her time with Chic. Her powerful voice and unforgettable performances helped define an era, and her work continues to inspire audiences worldwide. Her passing marks the loss of a remarkable talent, but her legacy lives on through her timeless music.