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Chaka Khan
The funk and soul singer behind I’m Every Woman, Ain’t Nobody and I Feel for You.
I’m Every Woman · Ain’t Nobody
- Born
- 23 March 1953
- Birthplace
- United States
More people
Chaka Khan
Chaka Khan first became known as the voice of Rufus before developing a solo career. Her powerful, flexible singing crosses funk, soul, jazz and dance music.
Early life
Chicago childhood
Born Yvette Marie Stevens and raised on Chicago’s South Side.
Early music
Her grandmother introduced her to jazz; she formed a singing group while young.
Career
- 1970s
Rufus
Became lead singer of the funk band.
- 1974
Breakthrough hit
Rufus released Stevie Wonder’s Tell Me Something Good.
- 1978
Solo debut
Released Chaka while continuing to record with Rufus.
- 2023
Rock Hall honour
Inducted with the Musical Excellence Award.
Selected work
I’m Every Woman
Her solo debut single, written by Ashford & Simpson.
Ain’t Nobody
A Rufus and Chaka Khan song with a distinctive synthesizer groove.
I Feel for You
Reworks Prince’s song with rap and harmonica.
Beyond music
Family musicians
Her sister performs as Taka Boom; her brother Mark Stevens is also a musician.
Charitable work
Founded the Chaka Khan Foundation to support women and children.
Sources & photo credit
Life, career and references ↗Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ↗Official biography ↗Photo: Dwight McCann / Chumash Casino Resort / www.DwightMcCann.com. CC BY-SA 2.5 · Original image. Cropped and displayed in monochrome.
