Evelyn Thomas, Hi-NRG Pioneer, Dies at 70

Evelyn Thomas, the influential vocalist who helped shape the hi-NRG dance music scene of the 1980s, has passed away at the age of 70, confirmed by her longtime producer Ian Levine. Born on August 22, 1953, in Chicago, Thomas first gained prominence with her debut single 'Weak Spot' in 1976, but her career skyrocketed with the 1984 anthem 'High Energy,' which became a defining track of the genre and sold over seven million copies worldwide. Despite facing health challenges in her final months, she reached out to Levine, leading to the creation of a last song titled 'Inspirational,' which her daughter, YaYa Diamond, plans to record as a tribute. Thomas's legacy as a disco icon remains impactful, with her emotive four-octave voice celebrated by fans and industry experts alike. She is survived by her daughter and grandchildren, with heartfelt tributes pouring in from those who knew her. The exact cause of her death has not been disclosed.