Betty Wright R.I.P.

Bessie Regina Norris was a songwriter, producer, performer, and record label executive from Miami, FL best known as Betty Wright.

She shared her prodigious musical gifts with the world from the age of a toddler in her family’s gospel band the Echoes Of Joy to her 66th and final year on earth, preparing a gospel duet with lifelong friend Sam Moore.

And she shared her knowledge on how to navigate life, a bass and treble clef, and the music industry with generations of artists going back to her early days at Tone Distributors in Hialeah all the way to the present day.

From the stages of Soul Train, touring with James Brown, winning a Grammy, and music with Stevie Wonder and Gloria Estefan, Wright’s talents were a beacon for millions; and she gave voice to the feelings and experiences of women from big cities, to small towns, and everywhere in between.

Betty Wright will live forever, but she will be forever missed. Rest In Peace Ms. Betty, and sincere condolences to her family, friends, and fans everywhere.

Willie Clarke, Betty Wright, Clarence Reid, Steve Alaimo, Henry Stone

A Young Betty Wright

“Clean Up Woman” was an instant success, but many people don’t realize how young Betty Wright was when she released the risqué hit. #RIPBettyWright pic.twitter.com/Ovh2vwqMpT

— TV One (@tvonetv) May 10, 2020

Million Selling Alston Records “Cleanup Woman” Plaque