Vera Hamilton facts for kids

Vera Hamilton (born July 17, 1945 – died August 31, 2013) was an American soul singer. She was best known for being an Ikette in The Ike & Tina Turner Revue. Vera also performed as an Otisette with Johnny Otis and released her own songs as a solo artist.

Vera Hamilton: A Soulful Singer

Vera Hamilton was born in Eatonton, Georgia, on July 17, 1945. She became a famous singer known for her powerful voice. Her career spanned many years, working with some of the biggest names in music.

Early Life and Music Journey

Vera Hamilton started her music career in the early 1970s. She joined The Ikettes, a popular singing group that performed with Ike & Tina Turner. This was a very exciting time for her.

As an Ikette, Vera appeared on many popular TV shows. These included The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, The Andy Williams Show, and Beat-Club. She also appeared in films like It's Your Thing (1970) and Taking Off (1971). The group traveled all over the world, even performing in Accra, Ghana. This concert was shown in the documentary film Soul to Soul (1971).

Performing with Music Legends

In 1972, Vera Hamilton released her own song with Epic Records. It was produced by the famous musician Johnny Otis. She also sang as an Otisette with The Johnny Otis Show. Vera kept a close friendship with fellow singers Alesia Butler and Teresa Butler.

Later, in the 1990s, Vera rejoined Ike Turner's new music group. She became a lead singer, showing her amazing talent once again.

Vera Hamilton passed away in Long Beach, California, on August 31, 2013. She is remembered by her four children and many grandchildren. Some of her grandchildren have also inherited her musical talent.

Vera's Musical Legacy

Vera Hamilton's voice can be heard on many recordings. She released her own songs and sang backup for other artists. Her music continues to be enjoyed by fans today.

Singles Released

• 1972: "But I Ain't No More (G.S.T.S.K.D.T.S.)" / "Heavy, Heavy Hangs (Over My Heart)" (Epic 5-10875)

Album Appearances

Vera's songs appeared on these albums:

• 2000: Various – I'm A Good Woman (Funk Classics From Sassy Soul Sisters) (Harmless)
• 2000: Various – A Fusion Soul Classics Collection (Universal Music)
• 2001: Johnny Otis & Friends – Watts Funky (BGP Records)
• 2003: Various – Funk Soul Sisters (BGP Records)

Backing Vocal Credits

Vera sang backup on these albums:

• 1971: Ike & Tina Turner – What You Hear Is What You Get (Live at Carnegie Hall) (United Artists)
• 1971: Ike & Tina Turner – Live in Paris (Olympia 1971) (United Artists)
• 1976: Bo Diddley – Where It All Began (Bellaphon)
• 1981: Johnny Otis and Shuggie Otis – The New Johnny Otis Show with Shuggie Otis (Alligator)