Back in 2019, Philadelphia did something pretty special—they named a street after their hometown hero, Patti LaBelle. Now, that’s a big deal! And honestly, it’s the least they could do for this incredible woman. Since she first graced the world with her voice, Patti has been nothing short of a legend. Who can forget the iconic 1974 disco hit “Lady Marmalade,” which had everyone speaking a little French? That song alone taught us how to spice things up. Fast forward to today, and Patti has sold an astonishing 50 million records across soul, gospel, pop, and R&B. At 77 years old, this powerhouse soprano is still rocking it. In a candid chat with Closer, she said, “As long as I’m walking, talking, and still sharp mentally, there’s no reason for me to retire. Singing is my passion!”
Patti isn’t just resting on her laurels; she’s diving headfirst into new projects. Alongside crafting fresh music, the legendary singer and celebrated home cook recently released a 20th-anniversary edition of her beloved cookbook, LaBelle Cuisine: Recipes to Sing About. And let me tell you, this title isn’t just bragging—it’s a fact. Back in 2015, her homemade sweet potato pies went viral, with fans shelling out up to $60 just to get their hands on one. These days, Walmart carries a whole line of Patti’s Good Life desserts and one-dish meals. If that’s not enough, she also lent her comedic chops to a hilarious commercial for Old Spice’s “Men Have Skin Too” campaign. “I’m thrilled they asked me,” she shared, “because every man in my family—my dad, uncle, brother—was an Old Spice guy.”
From Shy Girl to Superstar: Patti LaBelle’s Journey
Did you ever doubt your destiny as a performer?
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“Oh, absolutely! Growing up, I was so shy, I barely spoke to anyone. My best friends were cats, butterflies, and lightning bugs. My mom even had to bribe me to go to the park and play with other kids because I was so laid-back. Even now, I still have that quiet side, but music gave me a voice I never knew I had.”
You don’t strike me as the shy type!
“Believe it or not, I didn’t dream of becoming a singer when I was younger. But looking back now, with my music, food line, Old Spice commercial, and everything else, I never imagined I’d be 77 years old and still relevant. It’s truly a blessing.”
Overcoming Obstacles: Patti LaBelle’s Resilience
What was the hardest thing you had to overcome to achieve success?
“Being Black in this industry was a massive obstacle. While my white counterparts might have gotten triple platinum records, I often received wooden plaques. I always knew I had to work three times harder to be recognized or even have my music played. It was tough, but I persevered. Now, I’m cruising along smoothly, enjoying every moment of the journey.”
Have you always been fearless? You’ve tackled challenges like Dancing With the Stars and The Masked Singer!
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“Truthfully, I’ve never been afraid to try something new. When they asked me to do Dancing With the Stars, I was 71. At first, I thought, ‘What’s the worst that could happen? I’ll fall, but I’ll get right back up.’ And then came The Masked Singer. That costume was brutal—it was hard to breathe and move around in. But I said, ‘Why not?’ So far, I haven’t let fear hold me back.”
Memories and Milestones: Reflecting on Life
Looking back, what are some of your favorite memories?
“The day my son was born stands out as one of the most incredible moments of my life. I was the oldest woman in the maternity ward—most of the other moms were teenagers, and I was 29. I remember thinking, ‘Lord, will I ever walk again?’ It was scary, but giving birth was also the most beautiful experience.”
And now your son, Zuri, is your manager. Is it challenging working so closely with family?
“Sometimes we have our disagreements because he’s brutally honest, but that’s actually healthy. At the end of the day, I realize he gives me the best advice anyone could ever offer. He’s my baby, and I trust him completely.”
Words of Wisdom: Lessons Learned
What’s the best advice someone has ever given you?
“During a rehearsal for a Carnegie Hall show with artists like Sting and Elton John, someone brought me water in a plastic cup. Nina Simone turned to me and said, ‘No, Darling. You never drink from plastic—always crystal.’ [Laughs] Since then, I’ve made sure everything comes in crystal. Nina was full of wisdom!”
Which songs never get old for you?
“‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ and ‘Lady Marmalade’ are timeless classics that I never tire of performing. They’re part of who I am.”
Who are some young singers you admire?
“Jennifer Hudson is absolutely killing it with the Aretha Franklin movie. Pink is another powerhouse, and Billie Eilish is bringing something fresh to the table.”
You’ve got a new commercial for Old Spice Moisturize with Shea Butter body wash!
“Filming that commercial was pure fun. It’s my first time promoting a men’s product, but I can use some of their stuff too. It smells amazing and works wonders on the skin.”
