Iconic group member and beloved R&B singer passes away at age 71

Judy Cheeks, renowned for her work with Ike and Tina Turners Ikettes and her contributions to R&B and soul music, has died. The news was shared by her friend Bill Shrader on Facebook on November 28.

Dear friends of Judy Cheeks, Im deeply saddened to inform you that Judy passed away peacefully in the arms of her husband on Tuesday evening, Shrader wrote. I delayed sharing this so you could enjoy Thanksgiving before hearing such heartbreaking news, just as Judy would have wished. Please keep her beautiful soul and her devoted husband in your prayers.

The cause of her death was not disclosed. In July, a GoFundMe campaign was created to support Cheeks in her fight against an autoimmune disease. The campaign stated, Judy has been struggling with a rare autoimmune disorder for over nine months. While the condition is lifelong, it can be managed over time. Once she is able to return home, she will require long-term skilled nursing care.

Born in Miami, Florida, Cheeks made her mark as an R&B performer during the 1970s and 1980s. In the 1990s, she transitioned to dance-oriented music, moving to Germany where she enjoyed international recognition. Soultracks.com highlighted that she lit up the dance floor for more than forty years, and also noted her songwriting for Motown as well as her collaborations lending powerful vocals alongside artists such as Donna Summer, Stevie Wonder, and Thelma Houston.

Judy Cheeks: A Legacy in R&B and Soul Music

Judy Cheeks, a prominent figure in the R&B and soul music scenes, has passed away at the age of 69. The news of her death was shared by close friend Bill Shrader on November 28, 2023, through a heartfelt Facebook post. Shrader revealed that Cheeks passed away peacefully in the arms of her husband, following a battle with a rare autoimmune disorder that she had been struggling with for several months. The cause of death remains undisclosed, leaving fans and industry figures mourning the loss of a legendary talent.

Throughout her career, Cheeks made significant contributions to both the R&B and dance music genres. In the 1970s and 1980s, she was known for her work as a performer, particularly as a member of Ike and Tina Turner's Ikettes. She also collaborated with renowned artists such as Donna Summer, Stevie Wonder, and Thelma Houston. In the 1990s, Cheeks transitioned to dance music and found success internationally, particularly in Germany, where her presence was felt on dance floors for over four decades. Her influence in the music industry is undeniable, with her unique vocal style and songwriting skills leaving a lasting imprint on the genre.

Despite the challenging health issues she faced in recent years, Cheeks' contribution to the world of music remains a testament to her talent and dedication. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of artists and fans alike. The GoFundMe campaign created earlier this year to support her health care needs reflects the love and admiration she garnered from her peers and fans around the world.

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• Beloved R&B singer and member of iconic group dead at 71