‘Queen of Funk’ Betty Davis Passes Away at 77

Singer Betty Davis, the legendary trailblazing queen of funk, passed away Wednesday at 77.

Davis’ close friend Danielle Maggio confirmed the news to Rolling Stone.

Amie Downs, communications director of Allegheny County where Davis resided, confirmed the musician died of natural causes.

The iconic singer rose to prominence in the mid-1960s and 1970s with her distinctive raspy voice. She was known for hit songs such as “Get Ready for Betty,” “It’s My Life,” “If I’m in Luck I Might Get Picked Up,” and more.

The vocalist was briefly married to jazz pioneer Miles Davis following his divorce from dancer Francis Davis. Miles and Betty only remained together for only one year. She was credited with introducing him to new music like Jimi Hendrix, which influenced some of his most notable work.