Sunday Soulschool: Minnie Riperton

Chicago-born singer Minnie Riperton was just a teenager when she joined girl group the Gems and signed with the legendary Chess label. After releasing a couple of singles and doing backing vocals for folks like Fontella Bass, Etta James and The Dells, she was recruited by producer Charles Stepney for his psychedelic soul ensemble Rotary Connection, with whom she recorded five critically acclaimed but commercially unsuccessful albums. 
In 1970 Riperton released her debut solo album 'Come to My Garden' - composed by her husband Richard Rudolph and produced and arranged by Stepney - but it was the Stevie Wonder co-produced 'Perfect Angel' (including the angelic 'Lovin' You') that would make her an international star. She went on to release three more albums before her tragic death in 1979, losing the battle against breast cancer at age 31. 
Find out why Riperton is still considered one of soul music's most unique voices by givin' the playlist below a listen, enjoy!