Evelyn ‘Champagne’ King, a prominent figure in the music industry, rose to fame with her iconic song ‘Shame’ in 1977. Despite being a newcomer, King showcased her exceptional talent in funk, pop-R&B, and quiet storm soul genres through her debut album, Smooth Talk, which went on to achieve gold certification. Collaborating with renowned artists like T. Life, Morrie Brown, and Kashif, King continued to dominate the post-disco era with hits like ‘I’m in Love’ and ‘Love Come Down,’ solidifying her position as a versatile and enduring artist.
The discovery of King’s musical prowess was serendipitous, occurring when she filled in for her sister at Philadelphia International Records and caught the attention of T. Life. Despite initial rejections, King’s determination led to the release of successful albums like ‘Smooth Talk’ and ‘Music Box.’ With a string of chart-topping singles and collaborations with industry giants, King played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of contemporary R&B, especially during the transition to drum machines and synthesizers in the early ’80s.
Throughout her career, King continued to innovate and adapt, releasing hit albums like ‘I’m in Love’ and ‘Get Loose,’ which featured timeless tracks such as ‘I’m in Love’ and ‘Love Come Down.’ Despite changes in the music landscape, King’s effervescent voice remained a constant, earning her critical acclaim and commercial success well into the ’90s and 2000s. With a diverse discography and a lasting impact on the music industry, Evelyn ‘Champagne’ King remains an iconic and influential figure in the realm of R&B and soul music.