Disco and R&B legend Rochelle Fleming has died. She was 72 years old. Her passing was announced by her representative, George Iz Correia, on behalf of the family via Instagram on November 6. Correia explained that she had passed away the day before in Philadelphia. The cause of death has not been made public.
"She brought light, laughter, and love to the world," the statement read. "Events to celebrate her life will be announced later. Thank you for your support during this difficult time."
Fleming founded First Choice in 1971 along with Annette Guest and Wardell Piper in her hometown of Philadelphia. The group initially found success with the song "Armed and Extremely Dangerous" in 1973, followed by "The Player (Part 1)" in 1974.
Among their major hits from the seventies are "Smarty Pants," "Doctor Love," "Let No Man Put Asunder," and "Love Thang."
The group disbanded in 1980, and Fleming embarked on a successful solo career, with songs like "Love Itch" in 1985, "Danger!" in 1994, and "Suffer (The Consequences)" in 1995.
Fleming had a significant influence on R&B and disco music, and her songs continue to be covered by numerous contemporary artists. In 1999, Mary J. Blige covered "Let No Man Put Asunder" for her album Mary, while artist Kaytranada, who blends R&B with electronic music, referenced "Love Thang" in his song "10%," released in 2019 featuring Kali Uchis. The track won the Grammy for Best Dance Recording in 2021.
Correia, who explained that he had been Fleming's representative for 17 years, also paid a personal tribute on Instagram on Sunday, November 8. He shared a selfie with the singer alongside the version First Choice recorded in 1973 of "Love and Happiness" by Al Green.
"First of all, I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to the Fleming/Finney family," Correia wrote. "I love you all for the kindness and support you have given me while representing Rochelle over the last 17 years. I cannot continue without acknowledging the support and help that Rochelle's husband, Mr. Robert Finney, has provided throughout these years."
"Although my pain is unbearable and the magnitude of what has happened hits me at the most unexpected moments, I have so many wonderful memories with Rochelle that I can't help but smile with immense gratitude," he added.
"You all were her beloved 'sweeties,' as she affectionately called you," the former representative wrote to Fleming's followers. "She never said a bad word about anyone" (unless you were chewing gum). She loved The Golden Girls and would text me random quotes from the show on Sundays.
"Thank you to everyone who has shown me love for my work with Rochelle," Correia continued. "I feel honored, fortunate, and proud to have contributed to her legacy."
The Christian Hope Baptist Church, which Fleming attended, also paid tribute in a statement posted on Facebook.
"The Christian Hope Baptist Church community is heartbroken over the passing of our beloved sister Rochelle Fleming," the Philadelphia church wrote. "We thank God for her life, her voice, and the many years she shared with us."
The church explained that Fleming had attended their services since she was a child and regularly sang in several of their choirs.
"We send our love, prayers, and deepest condolences to the Fleming and Finney families and to all who loved her," the church added. "Rest in peace, Rochelle. Your song continues to play."
BMG, which represents part of the First Choice catalog through the Salsoul label, also paid tribute to Fleming.
"Rochelle was an extraordinary singer, and the records she made with First Choice have had a lasting influence on dance music," said Dan Baxter, Senior Vice President of Global Catalog Recordings at BMG. "'Doctor Love,' 'Love Thang,' and 'Let No Man Put Asunder' continue to resonate with dancers and DJs around the world, while remixes and samplers have introduced her voice to successive generations."
"Our deepest condolences to Rochelle's family, friends, and former First Choice colleagues," Baxter added. "Her voice and the joy she brought to so many will not be forgotten."