Labelle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Labelle
|
|
|---|---|
|
|
| Background information | |
| Also known as | The Ordettes Patti LaBelle and the Blue Belles Patti LaBelle and Her Blue Belles |
| Origin | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Genres | |
| Years active | 1962–1976 2005–2009 |
| Labels |
|
| Associated acts |
|
| Past members | Patti LaBelle Nona Hendryx Sarah Dash Cindy Birdsong Sundray Tucker (touring) |
Labelle was a famous American singing group made up of all women. They were very popular in the 1960s and 1970s. The group started when two other girl groups, the Ordettes and the Del-Capris, broke up. The new group began as a new version of the Ordettes. Later, they changed their name to the Blue Belles, and then to Bluebelles. The first members were Patti LaBelle, Cindy Birdsong, Nona Hendryx, and Sarah Dash.
How Labelle Started
The group first became known as the Bluebelles. Later, they were called Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles. They had success with slow songs called doo-wop music. Some of their popular songs were "Down the Aisle (The Wedding Song)", "You'll Never Walk Alone", and "Over the Rainbow".
In 1967, Cindy Birdsong left the group. She joined another famous group called The Supremes. After this, the remaining members decided to change their style. They got advice from Vicki Wickham. They changed their look, their music, and their overall style. In 1971, they officially became Labelle.
New Sound and Success
As Labelle, they started making funk rock music. Their songs from this time became very popular with fans. People loved their bold take on rock and roll. They also sang about topics that other black female groups usually did not.
Later, they adopted a glam rock style. They wore wild, futuristic costumes. This new look helped them become even more famous. In 1974, they had a huge hit song called "Lady Marmalade". This song was an early form of disco music. It led to their album Nightbirds selling very well and becoming a gold record.
Labelle made history in several ways. They were the first modern pop group to perform at the Metropolitan Opera House. They were also the first black vocal group to be on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine.
After Labelle
The group stopped performing together after a tour in 1976. Each member then started their own solo music career. They all found success on their own.
- Nona Hendryx explored unique and experimental music.
- Sarah Dash became a well-known singer who performed with many other artists.
- Patti LaBelle had a very successful solo career. She won a Grammy Award. She had many top songs on the R&B charts. She also received many awards for her lifetime achievements in music.
Reunion
Labelle got back together in 2008. They released a new album called Back to Now. It was their first new album in 32 years.
See also
In Spanish: LaBelle para niños
