Yvette Marie Stevens (born March 23, 1953), known as Chaka Khan, is an American singer dubbed the “Queen of Funk.” Her career spans over five decades, starting as lead vocalist of the funk band Rufus in the early 1970s. With Rufus, she recorded hits like “Tell Me Something Good,” “Sweet Thing,” and “Ain’t Nobody.”
Her solo debut featured the #1 R&B hit “I’m Every Woman.” She was the first R&B artist to cross over with a rap hit on “I Feel for You” (1984). Other hits include “Through the Fire” and “Higher Love” with Steve Winwood.
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Chaka Khan Net Worth
Chaka Khan has a net worth of $10 million. Known as the “Queen of Funk,” she has influenced generations with her unique style and powerful vocals. For several years, Khan rented a large mansion in Santa Monica, California, in one of the city’s best neighborhoods, paying around $15,000 per month.
At the end of 2023, she moved from Santa Monica to a large property in rural Georgia, located on a lake and surrounded by forest, embracing a quieter lifestyle.
Early life
Yvette Marie Stevens was born on March 23, 1953, in Chicago, Illinois, to Charles Stevens and Sandra Coleman. Raised in Hyde Park, she formed the girl group Crystalettes with her sister Taka Boom. Khan joined the Black Panther Party in 1967 and was named Chaka Adunne Aduffe Hodarhi Karifi by a Yoruba Babalawo.
She married Hassan Khan in 1970. After replacing Baby Huey in Baby Huey & the Babysitters, she joined Rufus in 1972, catching the attention of Ike Turner, who invited her to become an Ikette, but she declined.
Career
In 1973, Rufus signed with ABC Records and released their debut album. Their breakthrough came with Stevie Wonder’s song “Tell Me Something Good,” reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning a Grammy. The follow-up hit “You Got the Love” helped their album Rags to Rufus go platinum.
Between 1974-79, Rufus released six platinum albums with hits like “Once You Get Started,” “Sweet Thing,” and “Do You Love What You Feel.” Chaka Khan was known for her powerful vocals and stage presence. She signed a solo deal with Warner Bros. in 1978 and also sang backing vocals on Stephen Bishop’s gold album Careless (1976).
Personal Life
Chaka Khan is the eldest of five children, including sister Yvonne Stevens (Taka Boom) and brother Mark Stevens. She married Hassan Khan in 1970 and had daughter Indira Milini with Rahsaan Morris. Her second marriage to Richard Holland in 1976 caused tension with Rufus members. Khan later lived in London and Germany.
She is vegan and overcame drug abuse and alcoholism by 2005. In 2006, her son Damien Holland was acquitted of murder but found liable in a civil suit.
What Was Chaka Khan’s Biggest Hit?
“Ain’t Nobody,” originally recorded with Rufus and later re-released as a solo artist, stands as Chaka Khan’s biggest hit. The song has become synonymous with her career.
Conclusion
Chaka Khan’s journey from a Chicago-based artist to an international music icon illustrates her exceptional talent and business acumen. Her net worth of $30 million reflects her success and influence in the music industry.
FAQs about Chaka Khan
- What inspired Chaka Khan to pursue a music career?
- Raised in an artistic family, Khan was drawn to rhythm and blues from an early age, which inspired her to pursue music.
- Has Chaka Khan ventured into acting or other industries?
- While primarily focused on music, Khan has made occasional appearances in film and television.
- What impact has Chaka Khan had on the music industry?
- Khan’s impact is seen in her pioneering contributions to funk and soul music, inspiring countless artists.
- What challenges has Chaka Khan faced in her career?
- Khan has overcome personal struggles, including drug abuse and alcoholism, to maintain her successful career.
- What philanthropic efforts is Chaka Khan involved in?
- Khan supports various charitable causes, although specific details of her philanthropy are not widely publicized.
