Beloved singer Linda Lewis has passed away at the age of 72. Known for her five-octave vocal range, Lewis collaborated with notable artists such as David Bowie, Rod Stewart, and Yusuf Islam/Cat Stevens. Her death was confirmed by her sister Dee Lewis Clay in a statement that requested privacy for the family.
Early Life and Career
Born Linda Ann Fredericks in West Ham, London in 1950, Lewis attended stage school and acted in various productions. In 1964, she appeared as a screaming fan in the Beatles film “A Hard Days Night.” She adopted the name Lewis in honor of singer Barbara Lewis and lived in a Hampstead commune frequented by artists and musicians like Cat Stevens, Elton John, and Marc Bolan. Lewis and Stevens were romantically involved for several years.
Solo Career and Collaborations
Lewis achieved success both as a solo artist and as a backup singer for several top artists. In 1975, she had a hit with her version of “It’s In His Kiss,” later made famous by Cher as “The Shoop Shoop Song.” Lewis also collaborated with Steve Harley and Cockney Rebel, Rick Wakeman, Joan Armatrading, and Jamiroquai. Her soulful voice and musical talent were widely appreciated by her peers.
Personal Life and Tributes
Lewis married guitarist Jim Cregan in 1977, but they divorced three years later. She later married music agent Neil Warnock in 2004, whom she is survived by. Following the news of her passing, tributes poured in from friends and colleagues in the music industry. Yusuf/Cat Stevens expressed his condolences, calling Lewis a “good soul-friend and fine artist.” Joan Armatrading also released a statement, remembering Lewis for her “beautiful voice and…lovely personality.”
Legacy
Linda Lewis will be remembered for her soulful voice, musical talent, and contributions to the music industry. Her collaborations with notable artists and her success as a solo artist have left an indelible mark on the industry. Her unique vocal range and style have influenced generations of musicians, and her legacy will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Who is Linda Lewis?
Linda Lewis was a British singer known for her five-octave vocal range and her collaborations with famous artists such as David Bowie, Rod Stewart, Yusuf Islam/Cat Stevens, Steve Harley and Cockney Rebel, Rick Wakeman, Joan Armatrading, and Jamiroquai. She had a hit with her 1975 version of “It’s In His Kiss,” and also had a successful solo career. -
When did Linda Lewis pass away?
Linda Lewis passed away on May 4, 2023, at the age of 72, as confirmed by her sister Dee Lewis Clay in a statement. -
What are some notable collaborations and achievements of Linda Lewis?
Linda Lewis was known for her successful collaborations with various famous artists and musicians, including David Bowie, Rod Stewart, Yusuf Islam/Cat Stevens, Steve Harley and Cockney Rebel, Rick Wakeman, Joan Armatrading, and Jamiroquai. She also had a hit with her 1975 version of “It’s In His Kiss,” and had a successful solo career as well. -
What is Linda Lewis’ background?
Linda Lewis was born Linda Ann Fredericks in West Ham, London in 1950. She later attended stage school and did some acting. She appeared as a screaming fan in the Beatles film A Hard Day’s Night in 1964. She adopted Lewis as her surname to honour singer Barbara Lewis and lived in a Hampstead commune that was visited by Cat Stevens, Elton John, and Marc Bolan. She married guitarist Jim Cregan in 1977 but they divorced three years later. She is survived by her husband, the music agent Neil Warnock, whom she married in 2004.