In Memoriam : Gwendolyn “Blondy” Chisolm, co‑founder of The Sequence, dies at 66

Stay connected via Google News

Follow us for the latest updates from Unheard Voices

Gwendolyn “Blondy” Chisolm, a pioneering rapper and co‑founder of the influential hip‑hop trio The Sequence, has died at 66. She died Monday, April 6, in Atlanta after a brief illness.

Chisolm helped shape early hip‑hop as a member of The Sequence, one of the first female rap groups to sign with Sugar Hill Records. The group formed in 1979 and rose to national attention with its hit single “Funk You Up.”

Early Life and Formation of The Sequence

Chisolm grew up in Columbia, South Carolina, where she met Cheryl “The Pearl” Cook and Angela “Angie B” Brown, later known as Angie Stone. The three attended C.A. Johnson High School and performed as cheerleaders, a background that influenced their rhythmic style. Chisolm said the hook for “Funk You Up” came directly from a cheer they created as teenagers, according to Rolling Stone.

The group’s breakthrough came after they made their way backstage at a Sugarhill Gang concert in 1979. They performed an impromptu audition for Sugar Hill Records founder Sylvia Robinson, who signed them soon after, per Billboard.

Impact of “Funk You Up”

“Funk You Up” became the first charting single released by an all‑female hip‑hop group. It peaked at No. 15 on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip‑Hop Songs chart and later earned Gold certification, according to Billboard. The track also influenced later generations of artists.

It has been sampled or interpolated by:

• Dr. Dre on “Keep Their Heads Ringin’”
• En Vogue on “Whatever”
• Erykah Badu on “Love of My Life Worldwide”
• Katy Perry in a commercial spot

These samples helped extend the song’s legacy across decades.

Gwendolyn Blondy Chisolm’s Career and Later Work

The Sequence released three albums between 1980 and 1983 before disbanding in 1985. The group also charted additional singles, including “Funky Sound (Tear the Roof Off)” and “I Don’t Need Your Love (Part One),” according to Billboard.

Chisolm continued working in music after the group’s breakup. She remained active in Black music preservation and collaborated with artists and community leaders.

Her bandmate Angie Stone died in March 2025 following a car accident, leaving Cheryl “The Pearl” Cook as the group’s last surviving member.

Family Statements and Legacy

Chisolm’s sister, Monica Scott, described her as “a creative force who touched countless hearts,” People reported. Scott said her sister’s lyrics and melodies “continue to bring joy to millions.”

Family members also called her “the star of our family,” noting that her spirit lives on through her music.

A Lasting Influence

Chisolm’s work with The Sequence helped open doors for women in hip‑hop. Their success at Sugar Hill Records demonstrated that female rappers could chart, tour, and influence the culture at the highest levels.

Her legacy continues through the artists who sample her work, the fans who celebrate her music, and the history she helped write.