R&B Legend Teena Marie dead at 54.

Protégé of Rick James, the singer/songwriter Teena Marie died earlier today at her home in California. Known as the “Ivory Queen of Soul”, her hits included “Lovergirl,” “Portuguese Love,” “Ooo La La La,” and “I’m a Sucker for Your Love.” She was found dead in her home this morning by her daughter. The singer had been hospitalized earlier this month after suffering a seizure but had apparently recovered enough to schedule a concert for later this week in Atlanta. From the Associated Press:

Marie made her debut on the legendary Motown label back in 1979, becoming one of the very few white acts to break the race barrier of the groundbreaking black-owned record label that had been a haven for black artists like Stevie Wonder, the Jackson Five, the Supremes and Marvin Gaye.

Marie was the protege of the masterful funk wizard James, with whom she would have long, turbulent but musically magical relationship.

The cover of her debut album, “Wild and Peaceful,” did not feature her image, with Motown apparently fearing black audiences might not buy it if they found out the songstress with the dynamic, gospel-inflected voice was white.

But Marie notched her first hit, “I’m A Sucker for Your Love,” and was on her way to becoming one of R&B’s most revered queens. During her tenure with Motown, the singer-songwriter and musician produced passionate love songs and funk jam songs like “Need Your Lovin’,” ”Behind the Groove” and “Ooh La La La.”

A toast to Teena Marie.