Singer Sarah Dash, And Co-Founder Of LaBelle, Dies At Age 76

Singer Sarah Dash, best known as a founding member of the vocal group Labelle, has died at the age of 76. No cause of death has been given, though reports have suggested that Sarah’s death was unexpected. After originally forming Patti Labelle And The Bluebelles in the 1960s, the band revamped their image in 1967 and rebranded themselves as Labelle.

The trio enjoyed huge success with their chart-topping single Lady Marmalade, which was subsequently covered by All Saints and a super-group consisting of Christina Aguilera, Pink, Lil Kim, and Mya for the Moulin Rouge! soundtrack.

Labelle released a total of seven albums during their time together, the most recent of which came out in 2008, following a hiatus of over 30 years.

Sarah’s bandmate Patti Labelle paid her respects on Twitter, noting that the two had performed together just days before her death.

“We were just on stage together on Saturday and it was such a powerful and special moment!” she wrote. “Sarah Dash was an awesomely talented, beautiful, and loving soul who blessed my life and the lives of so many others in more ways than I can say.

“And I could always count on her to have my back! That’s who Sarah was… a loyal friend and a voice for those who didn’t have one. She was a true giver… always serving, always sharing her talent and her time.

“I am heartbroken, as I know all of her loved ones and fans are. But, I know that Sarah’s spirit and all that she has given to the world live on! And I pray that her precious memory brings us peace and comfort.”

As well as her work with Labelle, Sarah released four solo albums during the group’s hiatus.

She also toured with the Rolling Stones and made several guest appearances on their studio recordings, as well as on those of guitarist Keith Richards.

Labelle started out as the conventional girl group called Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles and changed into an Afro-futuristic glam rock group (even changing their name to Labelle to complete the transformation) in 1971.

Unlike other girl groups of the time, each member of the group sang both lead and background voices. They also embraced a futuristic look--complete with space suits and feathers. With their biggest hit, "Lady Marmalade" the group also embraced a sexually suggestive and empowering message.

After the group disbanded in 1976, Dash continued performing as a solo singer, releasing several albums over the years. She also became well-established as a session singer, recording and performing with Keith Richards and the Rolling Stones.

Labelle went on to say on Twitter of her friend.

"She was a true giver, always serving and sharing her talent and time. I am heartbroken, as I know all of her loved ones and fans are. But I know that Sarah's spirit and all that she has given to the world live on. And I pray that her precious memory brings us peace and comfort. Rest in power, my dear sister. I love you always!"