Hey C&B Southern Soul Blues Society, greetings from the heart of Detroit! As we pay tribute to our proud Motown roots, we fondly remember one of the brightest stars to grace the Detroit music scene – Teena Marie. On her birthday, we invite you, our beloved C&B Southern Soul Blues Society, to share your cherished memories of this legendary artist in the comments.
• Have you ever had the pleasure of experiencing Teena Marie live in concert?
• If C & B Entertainment Productions had booked her, would you have attended?
While we may not have had the opportunity to bring you
“Lady T” (RIP), you can experience how & C & B Entertainment Productions get’s down once again on July 20th at C & B Entertainment Productions 3rd Annual #SouthernSoulBluesOnTheRiver at the ArethaFranklinAmphitheater.
Mary Christine Brockert, born on March 5, 1956, and known professionally as Teena Marie, was an American soul and R&B singer, songwriter, and producer. Before adopting the stage name Teena Marie, she was recognized by her childhood nickname Tina. Later, she earned the nickname Lady T from her collaborator and friend, Rick James.
Teena Marie was celebrated for her unique soprano vocals, often leading listeners to believe she was of African-American descent. Her contributions to R&B and soul music earned her the title of Ivory Queen of Soul. She was also a skilled musician, playing rhythm guitar, keyboards, and congas. Over her career, she received four Grammy Award nominations.
Born in Santa Monica, California, to Thomas Leslie Brockert and Mary Anne, Teena Marie spent her early years in Mission Hills, California. She embraced her diverse ethnic heritage, which included Belgian, Portuguese, Italian, Irish, and Native American roots. During a visit to Louisiana, she discovered her paternal ancestors’ ties to New Orleans.
Teena Marie’s musical journey began at a young age, performing songs like Harry Belafonte’s “Banana Boat Song” by age two. Her parents supported her talent by arranging auditions, leading to appearances in shows like The Beverly Hillbillies. She further honed her skills by teaching herself to play the guitar, bass, and congas, eventually forming a band with her brother and cousin.
In the early 1970s, the family relocated to Venice, California, where Teena Marie was influenced by the vibrant music scene of the historically black enclave known as “Venice Harlem.” She received spiritual guidance from Berthalynn Jackson, a prominent figure in the community who became her godmother.
Teena Marie’s musical career took off when she caught the attention of Motown Records producer Hal Davis. Though initially intended for a film project, she was signed as a solo artist by Berry Gordy, the label’s founder. Her debut album, Wild and Peaceful, produced by Rick James, marked the beginning of her successful partnership with Motown.
Throughout the 1980s, Teena Marie continued to release hit albums such as Lady T, Irons in the Fire, and Starchild, showcasing her talent as a singer, songwriter, and producer. Despite facing legal battles with Motown, she emerged as one of the label’s most successful artists.
Transitioning to Epic Records in the early 1980s, Teena Marie released acclaimed albums like Robbery and Starchild, which featured chart-topping singles like “Lovergirl” and “Out on a Limb.” She explored various musical styles, including rock and funk, further cementing her reputation as a versatile artist.
In the 1990s, Teena Marie’s music continued to resonate with audiences, earning her recognition as a pioneer in blending R&B, soul, and hip-hop. Despite facing challenges in securing record deals, she remained dedicated to her craft, releasing albums like Passion Play and Black Rain.
Teena Marie made a triumphant return to the music scene in the 2000s, signing with Cash Money Records and releasing successful albums like La Doña and Sapphire. She continued to experiment with jazz influences in her music, culminating in the release of Congo Square in 2009.
Tragically, Teena Marie passed away on December 26, 2010, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking music and artistic innovation. She was remembered fondly by fans and fellow musicians alike, who honored her contributions to the world of R&B and soul.