The Velvelettes Singer Bertha Mcneal Dies At 82 Now

McNeal founded The Velvelettes in 1961 alongside Mildred Gill Arbor while both were students at Western Michigan University. The group was completed by Mildred’s younger sister Carolyn (Cal) Gill, friend Betty Kelley, and Bertha's cousin Norma Barbee.

Driven by an audition encouraged by Berry Gordy's nephew, the group signed to Motown's V.I.P. label. They went on to release several iconic soul tracks: The Velvelettes Singer Bertha McNeal Dies at 82

: A standout 1964 single that peaked at No. 45 on the Billboard Hot 100. McNeal founded The Velvelettes in 1961 alongside Mildred

: Another massive hit produced by Norman Whitfield. The song was later famously covered by the British pop group Bananarama in 1982. : Another massive hit produced by Norman Whitfield

While many Motown artists pursued music full-time, the parents of The Velvelettes insisted they prioritize their schooling, earning them the nickname "The College Girls". Following a string of hits, McNeal took a step back from the group to raise her family and finish her education.