On Tuesday, singer of the 70’s feminist anthem “I Am Woman,” Helen Reddy has died, according to a statement on her Facebook fan page.
She was 78.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Helen Reddy, on the afternoon of September 29th, 2020 in Los Angeles. She was a wonderful Mother, Grandmother, and a truly formidable woman,” said a statement attributed to her children Traci and Jordan.
Helen Reddy was also known for “Delta Dawn” and “Ain’t No Way to Treat a Lady.”
Just last month, a film biography of Reddy’s rise from single mother in New York City to a hit artist titled “I Am Woman” was released. The film stars Tilda Cobham-Hervey as Reddy and features a new song by Reddy’s granddaughter Lily Donat.
According to the Recording Academy GRAMMY Awards website, Reddy’s hit single, “I Am Woman” was released in 1971, but didn’t make it to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 until December of the next year. Then, in 1973 Reddy won her first GRAMMY for the song.
“I would like to thank God because she makes everything possible,” Reddy said in her short acceptance speech. The Australian singer would go on to be nominated for another GRAMMY in 1976.
“Our hearts are broken,” the statement from her children said. “But we take comfort in the knowledge that her voice will live on forever.”