WOW: Chaka Khan is NOT Playing… Tiny Desk Concert (video)

Early Success with Rufus

With Rufus, Chaka Khan achieved significant success. “Tell Me Something Good” (1974), written by Stevie Wonder, won the band their first Grammy Award. “Sweet Thing” (1975) became a signature ballad showcasing Khan’s vocal range, while “Ain’t Nobody” (1983), one of the band’s biggest hits, won a Grammy and remains a classic to this day. Key albums with Rufus include “Rufusized” (1974), which featured hits like “Once You Get Started” and solidified Rufus’s place in funk. “Rufus Featuring Chaka Khan” (1975) featured the hit “Sweet Thing,” and “Rags to Rufus” (1974) contained “Tell Me Something Good” and other funk classics.

Solo Stardom

Chaka Khan’s solo career is equally impressive. “I’m Every Woman” (1978) from her debut solo album became a major hit and was later covered by Whitney Houston. “I Feel for You” (1984), a crossover hit written by Prince, topped the charts and won a Grammy. “Through the Fire” (1984) became a soulful ballad that is a staple in her repertoire. Her debut album “Chaka” (1978) featured “I’m Every Woman,” while “I Feel for You” (1984) included the title track hit, “This Is My Night,” and “Through the Fire.” “Destiny” (1986) included hits like “Love of a Lifetime.”

Iconic Collaborations and Background Singers

Throughout her career, Chaka Khan has been supported by a range of talented background singers. Whitney Houston, before her rise to stardom, sang background vocals on Khan’s hit “I’m Every Woman.” Luther Vandross, known for his soulful voice, provided background vocals early in his career and significantly influenced her music. Cissy Houston, Whitney’s mother, also lent her voice to Khan’s tracks, along with Patti Austin, Brenda White King, Lisa Fischer, and Vivian Cherry. One notable collaboration was on the song “Papillon (aka Hot Butterfly)” from Khan’s 1980 album “Naughty.” Luther Vandross provided the background vocals, adding depth to the track. The song was written by Greg Diamond, a well-known songwriter and producer in the disco and funk genres.

Personal Life and Family

Chaka Khan has two children: Indira Milini Khan, born in 1973, who is also a singer and has performed with her mother on various occasions, and Damien Holland, born in 1979. Milini is her daughter from her relationship with Rahsaan Morris, while Damien is her son from her marriage to Richard Holland.

Legacy and Influence