Angela Bofill
Angela Bofill, a renowned musical gem, was best known for her songs in the 1970s and 1980s passed away on June 13th at the age of 70. She was born and raised in New York City. Angela graduated from Manhattan School of Music in 1976. In 1978, she released her first album “Angie”. During her career she recorded upwards of ten studio albums. And she also sang backup vocals for a number of performers.
One notable collaboration was with legendary jazz musician George Benson. She provided background vocals on his album “In Flight.”That dynamic voice of hers added depth and richness to Benson’s smooth jazz tracks. It enhanced the overall listening experience for fans of both artists.
Angela’s versatility as a backup singer allowed her to work with a diverse roster of musicians. She crossed different genres showcasing her ability to adapt her vocal style.
Last year, Angela was inducted into the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame. Many listeners and music producers have remarked on how her songs are thought of as elegant and thoughtful. They exhibit sophistication that pushed beyond the typical pop stylings of her time.
While rooted in their era, many of her songs have aged well due to Bofill’s commanding vocals and intricate music arrangements. Tracks like “I Try,” “Too Tough” “Under The Moon And Over The Sky,” and “Still In Love” showcase her jazzy sophistication and emotional depth.
Often, her music reflected on themes of love and life — blending of R&B with jazzy influences. Songs like “Stop Look Listen” exhibit a dreaminess that resonates with fans who appreciate lush vocals and emotionally charged music.
Despite not achieving mainstream success on the Top 40 charts, Angela’s impact on R&B charts was notable. One standout performance, that captures Bofill’s class and coolness, is her rendition of “I Try” on The Johnny Carson Show. Here she showcases her scat singing skills. Her ability to embody emotion through song is truly remarkable.
In later years, Bofill faced many health challenges. Her legacy as an elegant musical talent will be remembered by fans around the world. Here at ROUTES we pay tribute to Angela Bofill and her distinctive contributions to the music industry.
- Breaking New Ground: A Landmark African-American Revival of “Gypsy” - December 24, 2024
- Roy Haynes: The Timeless Journey of a Jazz Drumming Legend - November 21, 2024
- “Elizabeth Catlett: A Black Revolutionary Artist and All That It Implies” - October 4, 2024