Teena Marie

Date of Birth: March 5, 1956

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: December 26, 2010

Biography

Teena Marie, born Mary Christine Brockert, was an American singer, songwriter, and producer who became a notable figure in R&B, funk, and soul music. Born on March 5, 1956, in Santa Monica, California, she was often affectionately called the “Ivory Queen of Soul.” Teena Marie’s career began in the late 1970s when she was signed to the Motown Records label. Her debut album, “Wild and Peaceful” (1979), featured the hit single “I’m Just a Sucker for Your Love,” a duet with Rick James. This collaboration marked the beginning of a long-lasting friendship and professional relationship between the two artists. Throughout her career, Teena Marie released numerous albums, including “Lady T” (1980), “Irons in the Fire” (1980), and “Starchild” (1984), which produced the hit single “Lovergirl.” Her music often featured her strong vocals, intricate melodies, and deeply personal lyrics, earning her a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. Teena Marie was also a multi-instrumentalist, playing guitar, keyboards, and percussion on many of her recordings. Teena Marie continued to produce music and tour until her untimely death on December 26, 2010. Her legacy is celebrated for breaking racial barriers in the music industry and leaving an indelible mark on the genres of R&B and soul.

5 Interesting Facts about Teena Marie

1. Teena Marie was one of the few white artists to achieve significant success in the R&B genre, often blurring racial lines with her soulful voice and style.

2. She was the first white artist to be signed to the Motown record label.

3. Her song “Lovergirl” reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1984, making it one of her most successful singles.

4. Teena Marie was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for her song “Ooo La La La” in 1988.

5. She mentored several up-and-coming artists throughout her career, including rapper and singer Lenny Kravitz.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Teena Marie

1. “I just try to be as honest as I can when I write. I think that’s where the best music comes from.”

2. “I think music is a healing force in the world. It’s something that we can all relate to and feel.”

3. “I’ve always felt that music is my ministry, and I try to give that to people in my performances.”

4. “I don’t think about color. I think about music and what touches my soul.”

5. “Music is what I breathe, what I love to do. It keeps me going and keeps me young.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Teena Marie achieved a highest net worth estimated to be around $3 million at the peak of her career.

Children

Teena Marie had one daughter, Alia Rose Brockert, who was born on December 25, 1991. Alia Rose, also known as Rose LeBeau, has followed in her mother’s footsteps and pursued a career in music.