Peggi Blu (May 26, 1946 – May 19, 2024)[2] was an American singer. She was the 1986 "Star Search Grand Champion (Female Vocalist)"[3] and the winner of the 2013 Malibu Music Awards ("Vocal Coach of the Year").[4] She is best known as an American Idol vocal coach.[5]
Early life
Blu was born in Lumberton, North Carolina, and began singing at the age of three.[6] A relocation to New York City at the age of 14 with her uncle Bishop Walter L. Benton and his choir opened the way to her professional career. Due to constant bookings and a demand for her vocals, she was home-schooled.[citation needed]
Career
Blu's career as a session background singer began in 1973 with Archie Shepp's "Rest Enough (Song to Mother)",[7] from his The Cry of My People album. Session work continued throughout the 1970s with artists such as Elkie Brooks, Esther Phillips and Louis Farrakhan.[8]
In 1987, the album Blu Blowin' produced two minor R&B/hip hop hits with "Tender Moments" and "All the Way with You".[9]
In September 2002, Blu released her third album, Livin' on Love, on Expansion Records.[10] In 2006, Blu was featured on the short-lived ABC TV show Miracle Workers alongside good friend Charles Valentino.[11] In 2007, Blu did backing vocals and vocal arrangements for the soundtrack to Adam Sandler's I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry.[citation needed]
In 2010, Blu recorded with Danish/German duo Cool Million on their album Back for More,[12] which led to her appearance on their 2012 album III. In 2011–2012, Blu was a judge and vocal coach on American Idol.[13]
Death
Blu died on May 19, 2024, at the age of 77.[14][15]