Motown’s 1st Female Solo Artist passed away at 91.
Mable John died at her L.A. home Thursday, according to her nephew, Kevin John, who spoke to The Detroit News.
The cause of death wasn’t disclosed.
Mable John was signed to the label, then known as Tamla Records, in 1958.
She was the first woman under the brand to get her own record deal without a group collaboration.
She worked closely with Berry Gordy, the label’s founder, which flourished into a partnership under Motown.
John left the label in mid-’60s and still recorded a number of songs with them during her tenure.
Some of her famous tracks include, “Who Wouldn’t Love a Man Like That?,” “No Love,” “Actions Speak Louder Than Words,” “Looking for a Man,” “You Are My Only Love!” among others.
Following a short period with Motown, she went on to sign with Stax Records; where she churned out a memorable hit, “Your Good Thing (Is About to End).”
John left Stax and went on to perform with the Raelettes, backing Ray Charles.
She eventually hung her mainstream career and pursued a career in gospel music.
