Rochelle Fleming, the powerhouse vocalist who fronted pioneering Philadelphia soul and disco group First Choice, has died aged 72.
Fleming died in Philadelphia on November 5, with her death announced the following day by her longtime manager, George Iz Correia, in a statement shared on her official Instagram account.
The statement described Fleming as someone who “brought light, laughter and love to the world”, while confirming that details of services to celebrate her life would be announced at a later date.
No cause of death has been disclosed.
Fleming was born in Philadelphia and began singing while attending Overbrook High School, where she performed with Annette Guest and Wardell Piper in a vocal group that eventually became First Choice.
The group emerged from the city’s celebrated soul scene in the early 1970s and went on to become one of the defining female vocal groups of the disco era.
First Choice scored a breakthrough with Armed And Extremely Dangerous in 1973, followed by further hits including Smarty Pants, The Player, Doctor Love and Love Thang.
Fleming’s powerful lead vocals became one of the group’s trademarks, helping First Choice establish a lasting presence in Philadelphia soul, disco and dance music.
Following news of her death, tributes came from across the music world.
Sister Sledge were among those to honour the singer, praising the distinctive voice that helped define First Choice’s recordings.
The Disco favourites wrote on social media: “We’ve just heard of the passing of Rochelle Fleming, lead singer of the fantastic First Choice, and fellow Philly born artist. Rochelle’s legacy will live on through her beautifully soulful voice and music. May she rest in heavenly peace, and our condolences to her family and loved ones.”
BMG also paid tribute to Fleming, with the company highlighting the continuing influence of First Choice’s recordings on dance music.
Dan Baxter, BMG’s SVP of Global Catalog Recordings, said: “Rochelle was a remarkable singer, and the records she made with First Choice have had a lasting influence on dance music. “Doctor Love”, “Love Thang” and “Let No Man Put Asunder” still connect with dancers and DJs around the world, while remixes and samples have introduced her voice to successive generations. Our heartfelt condolences go to Rochelle’s family, friends and fellow members of First Choice. Her voice and the joy it brought to so many will not be forgotten.”
One of First Choice’s most enduring songs was Let No Man Put Asunder, which originally appeared on their 1977 album Delusions. The track later became a major influence on dance music and was covered by Mary J. Blige for her 1999 album Mary.
First Choice split in 1980, but Fleming continued performing and recording as a solo artist. Her later work included songs such as Love Itch and Danger!, while her contribution to First Choice continued to be recognised by generations of DJs, producers and artists.