Sandra Tilley facts for kids

Sandra L. Tilley (born May 6, 1945 or 1946 – died September 9, 1983) was an American R&B and soul singer. She was best known for being a member of the Motown girl group The Velvelettes. Later, she joined another famous group, Martha and the Vandellas.

Early Life and Music Career

Sandra Tilley was born in Cleveland, Ohio. Her parents passed away when she was a baby. Relatives in Ohio raised her. While in school, Sandra took music classes. She also played the violin in her school orchestra.

Starting in Show Business

After high school, Sandra Tilley began her career in music. She became well-known in the Cleveland music scene during the 1960s. She often worked as a backup singer for groups like The Orlons. Her talent was quickly noticed by others.

Joining The Velvelettes

In late 1965, Carolyn Gill of The Velvelettes asked Sandra to join her group. Sandra became a permanent member, replacing Gail Sonders. Gail left the group to focus on her family. Sandra stayed with The Velvelettes until they officially stopped performing in September 1967.

Performing with Martha and the Vandellas

In 1968, Sandra Tilley joined Martha Reeves and The Vandellas. She was the last new member to join the group. Sandra replaced Rosalind Ashford. Her first performance with the group was at the famous Copacabana in December 1968.

The next year, Sandra was on the album cover for the Vandellas' seventh album, "Sugar ‘n’ Spice". She also sang on the 1970 album Natural Resources. Sandra's voice can be heard on the hit song "Bless You" and the album Black Magic.

Touring and TV Appearances

The group went on a farewell tour in 1972 before breaking up. During her time with the Vandellas, Sandra had many exciting experiences. She performed at the Copacabana in New York City. Famous people like Judy Garland watched their shows.

Sandra also toured the United Kingdom with the group. Their song "Forget Me Not" became a top ten hit there in 1970. She also appeared with the group on TV shows. These included The Mike Douglas Show and the popular dance show, Soul Train.

Later Life and Legacy

Sandra Tilley left the music industry in July 1972. She got married and moved with her husband to Houston in Texas. Around 1979, Sandra became very sick with a serious illness that affected her brain. She had surgery in Las Vegas, Nevada in late 1983.

Sandra Tilley's Passing

Sadly, Sandra Tilley passed away on September 9, 1983. She was 37 or 38 years old. She was buried in Highland Park Cemetery in Highland Ohio. For many years, her grave did not have a headstone.

In 2002, it was reported that her grave was still unmarked. Her former bandmate, Lois Reeves, tried to get a marker for Sandra. However, she could not find any of Sandra's family members. Because of this, the efforts were not successful. Sandra Tilley's grave remains unmarked today. She did not have any children. She was survived by her husband and her grandmother.