Kathy Sledge is a true legend. A singer, songwriter, author, producer, manager, and Grammy-nominated music icon, her legacy spans decades. As the signature voice in Sister Sledge, their timeless hits, such as We Are Family and He’s the Greatest Dancer, have become worldwide anthems. Having worked with some of the biggest producers and artists in the world, her artistic triumphs encompass chart-topping hits, platinum albums and successful forays into several genres of popular music. Iconic producer Nile Rodgers sums it up: “Kathy has one of the most original and unique voices in pop music. Always has, and always will!” In addition to her musical endeavours, Kathy is deeply committed to philanthropic work and dedicates her time and resources to various charitable causes, including initiatives supporting women’s empowerment and youth education. The Citizen spoke to Kathy to learn more about the incredible musical journey she has been on for the past 50 years.
Growing up in Philadelphia, with a close-knit family, you’ve talked before about your parents’ insistence on academic excellence even amidst your musical pursuits. How has this grounded upbringing influenced your life and career?
My parents’ constant insistence on academic excellence has truly given me a lifetime sense of security by making me believe that you can do anything and that it’s never too late to learn and become something. You can do anything when your heart is in it. However, excellent work ethics and consistency are key. My mantra is “be it, and it becomes.” This has grounded me and taught me how to reinvent, recreate and manifest my dreams. And, of course, my favourite scripture is Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
After a lengthy legal process, you can perform your Sister Sledge hits in concert again. How does it feel to get back out there and sing those songs that bring back so many memories?
Let’s face it: being a group’s signature voice and lead singer comes with issues and is always extremely challenging. I’m definitely not the first. I had to learn how to deal with “the deep-rooted jealousies”, but for the record, I will proudly always be the lead singer of Sister Sledge and continue to sing the songs I recorded and made into hits. By choice, my sisters and I have decided not to work together anymore.
For clarity, I was sued for years by my three sisters through our company LLC by majority vote. In retrospect, this, however dark, is not the chapter in my life that defines me. It was at that particular time that it was most impactful. I learned how to become my most creative self. I immersed myself in performances, songwriting and productions, creating shows that catapulted me into producing concerts for international festivals as well as collaborating and working with my favourite producers and songwriters. “It’s not what we go through, but how we come through”.
“You can do anything when your heart is in it. However, excellent work ethics and consistency are key.”
When Nile Rodgers wrote We Are Family, it seems you had never heard the song before you sang it in the recording studio. Can you tell us more about that extraordinary moment?
Recording with Nile Rodgers and the late Bernard Edwards of Chic was truly a unique experience. I was not allowed to hear any of the songs until it was time to record them. Nile and Bernard believed in spontaneity. Some of the songs were recorded line for line. In fact, one of my favourites (which I also learned line by line) is Thinking of You. I’m presently enjoying the remarkable resurgence of the song worldwide with an up-and-coming remix. I believe these songs keep coming back because of the spontaneity of recording them. In retrospect, yes, it was extremely challenging, especially at 16 years old. But I trusted the genius of the producers. And I’m sure glad I did.
We Are Family has become synonymous with unity and celebration. How does it feel to know that it has become an anthem for countless communities around the world?
I am genuinely humbled and proud to be the voice of such an anthem: We Are Family. I am truly honoured and proud that it will continue to be amplified and lifted up through generations to come.
As a solo artist, you’ve dabbled in many different genres of music and even done a tribute to Billie Holiday. How important is it for you to keep things fresh and experiment with different types of music and art forms?
Being diverse and relevant is everything to me. Yes, one of my first successful ventures was a production about Billie Holiday called The Brighter Side of Day. Fast-forward to today, this particular production has ushered me into the jazz community. I am presently recording a project with the legendary jazz great Stanley Clarke and one with the multitalented up-and-coming jazz band Somebody Tell Joe.
“I am genuinely humbled and proud to be the voice of such an anthem: We Are Family. I am truly honoured and proud that it will continue to be amplified and lifted up through generations to come.“
Looking back on your remarkable journey with Sister Sledge, what advice would you give aspiring musicians or artists who are striving to make their mark in the industry?
Always be true to yourself and your art. Never compromise your creativity and morals. Success will follow, especially if you collaborate with others (in my case, it was with my family). Set your boundaries early on, and never move in fear.
You’ve shared the stage with titans like the Jackson 5 and Prince. Who would be/has been your dream collaboration?
I’ve always been told my voice is very distinctive. I’d love to collaborate with other voices that I also find unique. Some of my favourites are Maxwell, Mary J. Blige and Chaka Khan. I love the sensitivity of Kenneth Edmonds as a producer and songwriter and Adam Blackstone. I have always been a huge fan of Jim Harris and Terry Lewis (Jimmy Jam & Lewis), and we are currently collaborating.
You have written your memoirs, which are now being developed for a film project. How was it to relive all the memories – both good and bad?
I am ecstatic about my book of memoirs, and I’m hoping it will be scheduled for a release by next year. I love storytelling. There are some moments that will make you laugh until you cry and moments that are emotionally painful. In all, it has been quite a catharsis and the whole thing an amazing experience. I am so excited to share my story.
Your philanthropic efforts are well-known, particularly your involvement with the We Are Family Foundation. You are also a Goodwill Ambassador for the Halo Foundation in Antigua. Can you tell us more about these endeavours?
Being the voice of the anthemic We Are Family has created such a platform for me and allowed me to raise philanthropic awareness throughout the world. It is truly the gift that keeps on giving.
You’ve visited Antigua many times; what is it about the island that you like so much? Do you have a favourite spot?
Yes! All 365 beaches! Hmmm.. I think I’ll need to stay an entire year consecutively to check out each one!
What’s next for you?
I have some amazing upcoming projects. One of them is the mother/daughter, unscripted talk and variety show, Family Room, which I co-produced and co-hosted with my daughter, Kristen Gabrielle. There is also the book and film project behind my story of We Are Family. And there will definitely be some new music! I thank everyone for their love and support throughout the years. Stay tuned, and We Are Family.