Angela Bofill, a celebrated R&B and jazz singer known for her memorable hits like “I Try” and “This Time I’ll Be Sweeter,” died on June 13, 2024. She was 70.
Bofill, who had faced significant health challenges after suffering two debilitating strokes in 2006 and 2007, died peacefully at her daughter’s home in Vallejo, California. Her death was confirmed by her longtime manager and friend, Rich Engel, who shared the news on her official Facebook page.
Bofill’s career began in the late 1970s and was marked by a unique blend of jazz, R&B, and Latin influences, earning her a devoted following and critical acclaim. Her debut album, Angie, released in 1978, featured her biggest hit, “This Time I’ll Be Sweeter,” which highlighted her exceptional vocal range and emotional depth. The success of her debut was followed by her sophomore album, Angel of the Night, which included the popular track “I Try,” solidifying her status as a rising star in the music industry.
Born on May 2, 1954, in the Bronx, New York, Bofill grew up in a culturally rich environment that nurtured her musical talents. Her father, a Cuban-born Latin percussionist, and her Puerto Rican mother, a social worker, encouraged her to pursue her passion for music. Bofill’s early exposure to various musical styles, which included classical, jazz, and Latin, profoundly influenced her unique sound. She attended the renowned Hunter College High School and later graduated from the Manhattan School of Music.
Throughout the 1980s, Bofill continued to release successful albums and perform to enthusiastic audiences around the world. Her collaborations with famous producers like Narada Michael Walden and George Duke further expanded her musical repertoire. Despite her commercial success, Bofill faced significant challenges in her personal life, including struggles with health issues and financial difficulties.
The strokes she suffered in 2006 and 2007 left Bofill partially paralyzed and with limited speech, effectively ending her singing career. However, she was determined to stay connected with her fans. She made several public appearances and participated in benefit concerts to raise awareness about stroke prevention. Bofill’s courage and positive spirit in the face of adversity inspired many.
In a 2011 interview, Bofill reflected on her career, expressing gratitude for the love and support she received from her fans and fellow musicians. She spoke candidly about her health struggles and optimistically about the lasting impact of her music.
The news sparked an outpouring of condolences and tributes from fans and fellow musicians. Singer Melba Moore, a featured songstress in The Angela Bofill Experience along with singers Maysa Leak and Phil Perry, posted on Facebook: “RIP dear sweet Angela Bofill.”
Bofill’s funeral is scheduled for June 28, 2024, at St. Dominick’s Church, where family, friends and fans will gather to celebrate her life. Her legacy lives on through her timeless recordings, which still resonate with audiences today. As the music community mourns her loss, Angela Bofill will be remembered as an unforgettable trailblazing artist with a soulful voice.
To read more about the life and career of Angela Bofill, click here.
To listen to her beautiful voice, please watch one of the videos below.
