In Memoriam: The Emotions singer Pamela Hutchinson dies at 61

Pamela Hutchinson, a singer in the R&B group The Emotions, has died at the age of 61.

Pamela Hutchinson Dead at 61

The news of her passing was shared on the group’s official Facebook page.

“In loving memory, we are saddened to announce the passing of our sister, Pamela Rose Hutchinson, on Friday, September 18, 2020,” the post reads. “Pam succumbed to health challenges that she’d been battling for several years.”

Music Career

“Now our beautiful sister will sing amongst the angels in heaven in perfect peace. During this time, the family kindly asks for fans and friends to respect our privacy,” continued the statement. “We appreciate all kind words, photos, and videos you may want to post for our beloved Pamela and of course your loving prayers.”

The family band, which also included Wanda Hutchinson and Sheila Hutchinson, became known for their 1977 hit “Best of My Love,” a song that earned them a Grammy Award.

Most recently, the group appeared on “Patiently Waiting” from producer Terrace Martin’s 2016 album Velvet Portraits. Contemporary artists—including Mariah Carey, Toni Braxton, and Janet Jackson—have also sampled their music. They all sampled “Blind Alley.”

In 2015, VH1 ranked The Emotions as one of “the most influential girl groups of all time.”