Tina Marie, also known as Teena Marie and Lady T, has died in her sleep at the age of 54. Though not yet confirmed, it’s thought she dies of a grand mal seizure.
Teena Marie will be remembered for her career as a Grammy-nominated soul singer who had several big hits, including I Need Your Lovin’, Square Biz, Out on a Limb, and Portuguese Love.
Lady T, real name Mary Christine Brockert, signed to the Motown record label in 1979, being one of the first white artists to be afforded that honor. This did, however, mean she wasn’t pictured on the cover of her first album as it was feared black audiences would be less likely to buy it.
After taking a 14-year break from her career, Tina Marie made a comeback in 2004 and was nominated for a Grammy award in 2005.