(July 22, 2024) Norma Jean Wright’s résumé as a vocalist spans four decades. First coming to national attention as a member of Chic on legendary disco gems such as “Everybody Dance” and “Dance, Dance, Dance (Yowsah, Yowsah, Yowsah),” the Ohio-born performer went on to establish a prolific career as a session vocalist. Logging sessions with stars from Aretha to Madonna, she simultaneously became a solo artist and songwriter.
Wright’s 1979 debut single, “Saturday” (produced by Chic founders Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards) became a roller rink classic. It’s with that spirit and soulfulness that she has crafted her new EP, Living and Loving Life, featuring the delightful title track as its lead single. Bolstered by the rhythmically astute production of Bert Price, “Living and Loving Life” provides an ideal framework for Wright’s wistful delivery and uplifting lyrics.
The fusion of disco and contemporary R&B found on “Living and Loving Life” gleams with shades of Wright’s diverse influences, which she began exploring during the ‘80s and ‘90s on singles such as “Every Bit of This Love” and “Understanding,” one of several records she cut with former Chic bandmate Raymond Jones (now deceased) as State of Art. Wright’s new EP, which also features the cut “Tear Down These Walls” (a composition of hers first recorded by Skyy in 1992), looks set to continue her legacy of blending appealing nostalgia with modern quality.
Put on your dancing shoes and get to “Living and Loving Life” with Norma Jean Wright!
