Evelyn Thomas, the iconic voice behind the disco subgenre of hi-NRG, has passed away at the age of 70. The news was shared by her longtime collaborator, Ian Levine, in an emotional social media post.
Levine reminisced about their journey together and spoke fondly of Thomas, whom he regarded as his “protégé.”
Levine disclosed that he had written a final song for Thomas titled “Inspirational,” but her health declined too quickly for her to record it. In tribute to Thomas, her daughter Kimberly, an artist known as YaYaDiamond, will record the song in her honor.
“It is hard for me to accept that my lifelong protégé really has left us,” Levine wrote. “Her music will outlive us all.”
The cause of Thomas’ death was not revealed by Levine.
Kimberly also paid homage to her mother on Instagram, sharing a heartfelt tribute accompanied by a montage of photos set to Thomas’ international hit, “High Energy.” “RIP mommy Ellen Simpson AKA Evelyn Thomas,” she wrote.
Evelyn Thomas was discovered in 1975 by Ian Levine, making her debut in 1976 with the single “Weak Spot,” co-written by Levine and Paul David Wilson.
In 1978, she signed with Casablanca Records and released her debut album, I Wanna Make It On My Own. However, due to poor marketing, she left Casablanca Records for AVI Records.
In 1984, Thomas and Levine reunited to produce her biggest hit, “High Energy.”
The track soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart and reached No. 85 on the Billboard Hot 100. Thomas continued her career with four studio albums, leaving a lasting impact on the disco and hi-NRG music scenes.
Evelyn Thomas’ contribution to the world of music, particularly disco and hi-NRG, will be remembered and celebrated.
Her powerful voice and timeless hits have left an indelible mark on the industry.
