Evelyn Thomas, the celebrated disco icon who gained international fame with her hit "High Energy," has passed away at the age of 70. The news of her death was confirmed by her longtime producer, Ian Levine, on social media where he expressed the profound impact she had on the music industry, stating, "It is hard for me to accept that my lifelong protege really has left us. Her music will outlive us all." Thomas's journey in music not only defined a generation but also left an indelible mark on the dance music scene.
Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Thomas was born on August 22, 1953, into a musically inclined family. Her mother was a church organist, and her grandmother sang in the choir, creating an environment rich in musical influence. Thomas often recalled her childhood, stating, "My mother would have the piano and the organ rocking every day. That's just the way it was in our house." This nurturing atmosphere sparked her early passion for music.
She ventured to New York City in pursuit of her dreams, studying acting while simultaneously performing in early versions of musicals such as The Wiz and Les Misérables. It was during a return trip to Chicago to perform with her band, The Move Mixers, that she caught the attention of Ian Levine, who was scouting talent for his newly launched Voltafine Productions. Impressed by her vocal prowess, Levine quickly set to work recording tracks with her, landing her a significant recording contract with 20th Century Records.
Thomas's debut single, "Weak Spot," marked the start of her chart success, peaking at number 26 on the U.K. Singles Chart in 1976 and earning her a spot on the influential television show Top of the Pops. Though her subsequent singles did not perform as well, she became a regular presence in the Northern Soul scene, touring with acts such as Barbara Pennington and LJ Johnson, solidifying her reputation as a live performer.
The turning point in Thomas's career came in 1984 when she re-collaborated with Levine to produce the iconic track "High Energy." The track was celebrated for its vibrant blend of disco and electronic sounds, and it is lauded as a song that defined the Hi-NRG genre, an uptempo dance movement that dominated clubs during the mid-1980s. It became a defining anthem, eventually selling over seven million copies worldwide and is celebrated for its high-energy appeal. In 2022, Rolling Stone ranked it among the top 200 dance songs of all time, further cementing its status in music history.
The song's pulsating rhythm and Thomas's remarkable four-octave vocal range captured the moods of dance floors globally, proving her significance in the genre. DJ and music historian Bill Brewster praised her talent, noting, "Evelyn’s voice had this incredible ability to convey both vulnerability and strength. She was a cornerstone of the hi-NRG movement." The single topped the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart and managed to reach number 85 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking her place in both club culture and mainstream music.
Despite her commercial success, Thomas faced challenges with subsequent albums and singles. Her follow-up projects, including the albums I Wanna Make It on My Own and Have A Little Faith In Me, did not achieve similar recognition in the charts. However, her persistence in the music scene paid off, as she continued to release notable tracks such as her rendition of The Supremes' "Reflections," which climbed to No. 18 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart in 1985.
In her later years, Thomas remained connected to her musical roots and her fans. Levine, who had not been in touch with her following their last recording session in 2009, shared that she reached out just months before her death, knowing her health was declining. In a touching tribute, he elaborated that they immediately began working on a final song together titled "Inspirational," although Thomas was ultimately unable to record it due to her illness. Instead, her daughter, known artist YaYa Diamond (real name Kimberly), intends to record the track as a tribute to her mother and keep her legacy alive.
As her daughter expressed, “The legacy that my mother left me is beyond words and the memories are undeniably beyond any monetary value.” Thomas's influence and music continue to resonate with generations, and plans are already in motion to honor her contributions to the music world. The outpouring of grief from fans and fellow musicians alike underscores the significant role she played in the disco and dance music scenes.
The disco genre itself, which has seen a resurgence in recent years, often revisits the classics and draws from its rich history, including the contributions of artists like Thomas. Her work has inspired a multitude of contemporary musicians, and her songs remain staples in DJ sets worldwide. The nostalgia associated with disco fuels its ongoing popularity, and with each new generation, Evelyn Thomas's music finds a welcoming audience.
Thomas's impact extends beyond her chart-topping hits; she represents the enduring spirit of the disco era and the Hi-NRG movement that followed. Her ability to connect emotionally through her singing and her dedication to her craft helped carve a niche within a vibrant and ever-evolving musical landscape. The tributes resulting from her passing underscore the profound influence she had on both the industry and the communities that embraced her music.
As the world looks back on the rich tapestry of disco music, Evelyn Thomas will be remembered not only for her powerful voice and catchy dance anthems but also for her resilience and unwavering dedication to her artistry. With her legacy firmly rooted in the hearts and minds of fans around the globe, Thomas’s music will undoubtedly continue to inspire newcomers to the dance floor while reminding many of the unforgettable nights spent with her infectious hits ringing in their ears.
Her death may be a poignant reminder of the fragility of life, but as her daughter stated, it is now time to heal and honor the legacy she leaves behind. To truly encapsulate the essence of Evelyn Thomas, one only has to listen to "High Energy" and feel the joy and vitality that her voice brings.
In the annals of music history, few can claim the lasting power that Evelyn Thomas has achieved through her work. The joy and vitality she infused into every performance keep her spirit alive long after the last note has faded away.
