Rochelle Fleming, the lead singer of the 1970s Philadelphia girl group First Choice, has died at the age of 72. Known for her soulful voice and memorable disco hits, she made a lasting contribution to Philadelphia soul and dance music.
“Thank you for your support during this difficult time; “She bought light, laughter and love to the world” will be announced when services to celebrate her life are to be held.
Fleming was the leader of First Choice, who had a slew of hits such as “Armed And Extremely Dangerous” and “Smarty Pants”.
Sister Sledge Leads Tributes to Rochelle Fleming
US band Sister Sledge led the tributes, which singled out the singer for her “soulful voice”.
Sister Sledge, who has songs such as “We Are Family” and “Lost In Music”, wrote on Instagram: We’ve just heard the news of the passing of Rochelle Fleming, first choice lead singer, and other Philly born artist.
“Rochelle’s vibrant soulful voice and songs will live on in her memory, in heaven. May rest in peace, and our condolences to her family and loved ones.
BMG Pays Tribute to the Legendary Singer
Record company BMG Rights Management, which stands for the rights of artists such as Kylie Minogue, Lily Allen, Lenny Kravitz and Blondie, also paid tribute.
The company stated on its website that it was “deeply saddened” to learn about the death of “beloved founding member and lead singer” Rochelle Fleming, one of the voices that influenced Philadelphia soul and disco music and had an impact on dance music.
Rochelle was a great singer and the recordings she produced with First Choice have been huge influences on dance music,” said Dan Baxter of Global Catalog Recordings.
Remixes and samples have brought her voice to successive generations and ‘Doctor Love’, ‘Love Thang’ and ‘Let No Man Put Asunder’ still resonate with dancers and DJs globally.
Our condolences are with Rochelle’s family, friends and fellow members of First Choice, her voice and the joy she brought will never be forgotten.
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Christian Hope Baptist Church Remembers Rochelle Fleming
The Christian Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia, which Fleming attended, also paid tribute.
The Christian Hope Baptist Church family is saddened to say goodbye to our cherished Sister Rochelle Fleming.
“We give thanks to God for her life, her voice, and the many years she shared both with us.
Rochelle was the founding member and lead singer of Philadelphia’s own ‘First Choice’ which played music all over the world. We have known her before as one of our own.
She was born into Christian Hope along with her family, and was a lifelong member.
She served and shared her gift with the Lord, even as a world-renowned artist, she always came home.
First Choice’s Musical Legacy
First Choice’s Formation and Original Members
First Choice was established in 1971 with a line-up of Annette Guest and Wardell Piper (as well as Fleming).
The Success of “Let No Man Put Asunder”
Delusions, their 1977 album, included ‘Let No Man Put Asunder’, which was covered by Mary J Blige for her 1999 album Mary.
Rochelle Fleming’s Solo Career
After the break-up of First Choice in 1980, the era of Fleming’s career had come to an end. But her career was by no means finished. She continued to exhibit her deep, charismatic voice and musical enthusiasm with audiences and embarked on a solo career. She made a number of solo dance songs during this time, such as “Love Itch,” “Danger!” and “Suffer (The Consequences).” Through her work, she was able to continue to pursue her musical avenues without losing touch with the disco and dance scene. Though she was no longer part of the group, Fleming’s unique voice and musical involvement were still recognized by her fans and listeners worldwide.
