Sister Sledge singer and disco icon Joni Sledge has died, it has been confirmed.
Joni Sledge helped form the group with her three siblings in 1973, and they became chart starts during disco’s golden era.
Developing a close partnership with Chic – and in particular guitarist Nile Rodgers – their uplifting anthems remain some of disco’s most joyous moments.
News of the singer’s death was confirmed via the official Sister Sledge social media channels a few hours ago.
A statement reads: Yesterday, numbness fell upon our family. We are saddened to inform you that our dear sister, mother, aunt, niece and cousin, Joni passed away yesterday.
It finishes: We miss her and hurt for her presence, her radiance, and the sincerity with which she loved and embraced life.
We love you Joni. pic.twitter.com/6Zxj6gLoQh
— Sister Sledge (@SisterSledge_) March 12, 2017
#RIPJoniSledge #WeAreFamily My heartfelt condolences to your family because they are my family too. We did something pretty amazing together https://t.co/2UPcaD1zUL
— Nile Rodgers (@nilerodgers) March 12, 2017
