"California Soul" hitmaker Marlena Shaw has died at the age of 81, her daughter confirmed.
On Friday, January 19, Shaw's daughter Marla Bradshaw posted a heartbreaking video update on Facebook, confirming the crooner's death. Fans, colleagues and their loved ones left their tributes in the post's comments section.
Marlena Shaw's Cause of Death Unknown
According to Bradshaw, the matriarch died "peacefully" at 12:03 on that day.
"We were at peace. I know that you just saw posts of [a] birthday celebration just as soon as yesterday, and my twin sister and I were very grateful - and our family - that she was here in celebration for that," she continued. "Right now, she's at peace. She's in Heaven. I do know that."
Shaw's cause of death was not disclosed to the public.
Bradshaw added that the songstress listened to some of her favorite songs prior to her passing.
Meanwhile, the public left heartwarming messages to Shaw and her bereaved loved ones amid the tough time in their lives.
One said, "Oh, MarLa! So very sorry to hear of this! Much [love] and hugs to you and your wonderful family! You blessed and graced the fans admiration of the career of Marlena Shaw!"
"I am so sorry to hear about this! Your mom was extremely talented and she will never be forgotten! Please be strong. We are all here for you," another wrote.
"Marla, my sincere love and condolences to you and the family. I am devastated, but it was a blessing to know your Mom and to meet you here on FB," a third added. "Her music lives forever and we will never forget her. She was a most spectacular lady and artist. Please keep us in the loop and know that we are thinking of you so much."
Marlena Shaw's Career, Legacy
Shaw started pursuing a career by performing in jazz clubs before landing on a deal with Chess Records in the 1960's. From there, she released two albums, "Out of Different Bags" and The Spice of Life," which introduced her most famous songs, "California Soul" and "Woman of the Ghetto."
In 1972, she signed with Blue Note Records and released more albums and tracks in the years before she began working with Verve Records.
Before her death, Shaw released 17 albums under eight different record labels.
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