Marlena Shaw, who famously sang “California Soul,” died on Jan. 19 at age 81.
Her cause of death was not disclosed by her daughter, who shared the news with a video posted to Shaw’s official Facebook page.

The legendary jazz and soul singer began her career with a performance at Harlem’s Apollo Theater in 1952, after being invited onstage by her uncle, a jazz trumpet player.
She went on to perform in jazz clubs across the county, eventually signing to Chess Records in her early 20s.

Across her career, Shaw released 17 albums total with eight different record labels.
Her most famous tune is “California Soul,” penned by Ashford & Simpson and first recorded by The Messengers. It is oft-sampled by other artists and used in various commercials.