Gwen McCrae: The Pioneering Voice of Soul and Disco
Gwen McCrae, a trailblazing artist whose soulful voice and gospel-infused R&B style helped pave the way for the disco era, passed away on February 21 in Miami at the age of 81. Known for her upbeat, danceable grooves and emotive delivery, McCrae left an indelible mark on the music world. Her hits, such as “Lead Me On” and the iconic “Rockin’ Chair,” became staples of the 1970s music scene and continue to inspire generations of artists and fans.
Early Life and the Rise of a Star
Born Gwendolyn Patricia Mosley on December 21, 1943, in Pensacola, Florida, McCrae grew up in a household where music was woven into everyday life. She began singing gospel songs in church, a tradition that would later infuse her secular music with a deep, soulful authenticity. After marrying George McCrae, a Naval officer she met in 1963, the couple began performing together, blending their voices in harmony. Their partnership extended beyond marriage; they became a dynamic musical duo, recording albums, singing backup for other artists, and building a loyal following in South Florida’s vibrant club scene.
The TK Records Years: A Legacy of Funk and Soul
Gwen McCrae’s career Hit its stride in the early 1970s when she signed with TK Records, a Miami-based label founded by Henry Stone. Alongside other proto-disco acts like Betty Wright and KC and the Sunshine Band, McCrae became a cornerstone of the label’s success. Her music, a mix of sultry grooves and heartfelt ballads, resonated with listeners across the country. In 1972, she became the first artist to record “You Were Always on My Mind” (later shortened to “Always on My Mind”), a song that would go on to be famously covered by Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, and the Pet Shop Boys.
The Highs and Lows of Fame
Gwen McCrae’s biggest solo success came in 1975 with “Rockin’ Chair,” a sultry, swinging track that topped the Billboard R&B charts and reached No. 9 on the pop charts. The song’s success followed closely on the heels of her then-husband George McCrae’s global hit “Rock Your Baby” in 1974. There was some controversy over the origins of “Rock Your Baby,” with Gwen later claiming the song was written for her but given to George to boost his career. Regardless, the couple’s marriage ended in divorce in 1976, marking the end of their professional and personal partnership.
A Second Wind: From Disco to Rare Groove
After TK Records closed in 1981, McCrae moved to New York City and signed with Atlantic Records, where she released “Funky Sensation” in 1981, a minor hit that kept her name alive in the music scene. However, it was in Europe where she found a new and dedicated fan base. In the 1980s, British enthusiasts of rare groove—a genre celebrating classic American soul—embraced her music, dubbing her the “Queen of Rare Groove.” She continued to tour and record, even reworking her earlier hits for new audiences, while also inspiring DJs and hip-hop artists who sampled her tracks.
A Life of Faith, Family, and Music
Despite her fame, Gwen McCrae remained deeply rooted in her faith and family. A devout Christian, she often struggled with the overt sexuality of some of her lyrics, preferring to keep her music tasteful. She leaves behind a legacy of resilience and talent, as well as a large, loving family, including five children, 12 grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. After a stroke in 2012 left her paralyzed, McCrae retired from touring but continued to create music, releasing a gospel album, “I’m Not Worried,” in 2004 and revisiting her TK Records catalog in 2006 with “Gwen McCrae Sings TK.” Her story is one of determination, artistry, and the enduring power of music to transcend time and borders.