The prolific session singer who lived in the shadow of legends
In short: Dee Dee Warwick was a cornerstone of the New York soul sound, providing the essential vocals for many hits. Yet, despite her immense talent and Grammy nominations, she often found herself competing for attention and resources within the industry's most powerful labels.
Born in East Orange, New Jersey, in 1942, Dee Dee Warwick was a vital part of a musical dynasty. She was Dionne Warwick's sister, Cissy Houston's niece, and a first cousin to Whitney Houston and Leontyne Price. Her musical foundations were laid in the New Hope Baptist Church Choir in Newark, where she performed alongside her sister and aunt in the gospel trio known as the Gospelaires.
Warwick's professional ascent began in 1959 at the Apollo Theater, where she was recruited for session work. She became a prolific member of a New York City session singing team alongside Dionne Warwick and Doris Troy. This skillfulness launched a solo path, featuring a 1963 early recording of "You're No Good" for Jubilee Records, under Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
Her solo success was marked by significant R&B hits, such as the number 9 R&B hit "I Want to Be with You" in 1966. She also captured the initial rendition of "I'm Gonna Make You Love Me", a song later turned into a renowned duet for The Supremes' Diana Ross and The Temptations. Despite two Grammy nominations in 1970 and 1971, she faced challenges navigating major labels like Atco, where she felt she struggled to receive the same promotion as other major female acts like Aretha Franklin.
Warwick's career spanned several decades and labels, including Mercury and Private Stock. She continued to record into the mid-1980s before passing away in October 2008 at the age of 66.
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