New York City will soon pay tribute to the legendary vocalist and songwriter Angela Bofill, celebrated for her R&B classics like “This Time I’ll Be Sweeter,” “I Try,” “I’m On Your Side,” and “Tonight I Give In.” A memorial service honoring Ms. Bofill’s enduring legacy is scheduled to take place at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in Manhattan in August 2024. To support this tribute, the Estate of Angela Bofill has launched a GoFundMe campaign (more details at GoFundMe).
A Legacy Remembered
Angela Bofill passed away on June 13th, 2024, at the age of 70. Her daughter, Shauna Bofill-Portuguez, eulogized her, saying, “She loved every one of her fans and was always reading letters and kind notes from those who adored and continued to support her wonderful legacy in music.”
Early Life and Musical Breakthrough
Born on May 2, 1954, in Brooklyn, NY, to Cuban and Puerto Rican parents and raised in the Bronx, Angela Bofill first garnered attention with her debut album, “Angie” (1978). This album featured the Quiet Storm classic “This Time I’ll Be Sweeter” and the jazz/Latin-infused “Under the Moon and Over the Sky.” Her second album, “Angel of The Night” (1979), solidified her success with hits like “I Try” and “What I Wouldn’t Do (For The Love of You).”
Rising to Fame
Bofill’s third album, “Something About You” (1981), included “Holdin’ Out for Love” and the dance hit “Too Tough,” which reached the Top 5 on the R&B charts and #2 on the Dance charts. The single “Tonight I Give In” and the Top 20 R&B hit “I’m On Your Side” from her fourth album further cemented her popularity. In the late 1980s, her rendition of Gino Vannelli’s “I Just Wanna Stop” reached No. 11 on the R&B chart.
Challenges and Comebacks
Angela Bofill faced significant health challenges, suffering two strokes, with the second affecting her ability to sing. Despite this, she made a remarkable comeback with the help of her long-time manager, Rich Engel. In March 2006, a benefit concert titled The Angela Bofill Experience was organized to cover her medical expenses, featuring performances by Maysa Leak, Phil Perry, and Melba Moore. The music industry continued to rally around her, providing support through events and the Rhythm and Blues Foundation.
Honors and Recognition
In 2012, Angela Bofill was featured in the TVOne documentary series, Unsung. A year later, she was inducted into the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame, acknowledging her significant contributions to music.
Join the Tribute
Fans and supporters are invited to join in commemorating Angela Bofill’s life and legacy at the memorial service in New York City. Contributions to the GoFundMe campaign will help ensure a fitting tribute to this beloved artist.
