Grammy award-winning singer, Anita Pointer of the Pointer Sisters, has died at age 74. Surrounded by family, Anita passed in her Beverly Hills home on December 31 from cancer. The family released a statement explaining that although they were devastated at losing a beautiful soul, they knew Anita was now at peace. People close to the singer offered condolences and reminisced about her kindness on social media.
The Pointer family said in their statement, “She was the one that kept all of us close and together for so long. Her love of our family will live on in each of us. Heaven is a more loving, beautiful place with Anita there.” They continued, “While we are deeply saddened by the loss of Anita, we are comforted in knowing she is now with her daughter Jada and her sisters June and Bonnie and at peace.”
Katrina of Katrina & The Waves took to Twitter to talk about how vital Anita’s friendship was to her while touring with Wham back in 1985.
1/2 My deepest condolences to Anita Pointer’s family. Whilst on tour in 1985 with Wham! The Pointer Sisters & Chaka Khan, Anita was so kind & generous with her friendship & guidance to me. I learned a lot standing side of stage every night watching her amaze and excite the crowd. pic.twitter.com/4mQTr5mrXO
— Katrina formerly of Katrina & The Waves (@KatrinasWeb) January 1, 2023
2/2 While watching Wham! she told me something I will never forget. “It’s all about energy” Thank you for your energy and passion and the music that makes me and the world love you so much. pic.twitter.com/KoV3kUy1cF
— Katrina formerly of Katrina & The Waves (@KatrinasWeb) January 1, 2023
“Heartbreaker” singer, Dione Warwick, called her and her sisters family.
I personally feel the loss of Anita Pointer. Knowing these sisters was like family. She certainly will be missed. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family and multitude of fans. Rest in Peace my sister friend.
— Dionne Warwick (@dionnewarwick) January 2, 2023
Actress Marsha Warfield and others well-versed in the music industry recognized what her group did for the scene.
Oh no!
I’m so sorry to hear this.
I’ve been a Pointer Sisters fan since I first heard “Yes We Can.”
I ran out and bought the album and proceeded to learn every word of every song. Because of them I know who KoKo Taylor, Allen Toussaint, and Jon Hendricks are…— Marsha Warfield (@MarshaWarfield) January 1, 2023
…The Sisters Pointer have been a part of my life for most of my life, and I will cherish my memories for the rest of it.
Goodnight, Anita Pointer, rest in peace.https://t.co/YA8qhdYy6V— Marsha Warfield (@MarshaWarfield) January 1, 2023
The Pointer Sisters had hits like “Automatic” and “I’m So Excited.” The group began as two sisters, June and Bonnie, before Anita and their youngest sister Ruth joined the group for their debut album – which included their first hit single, “Yes We Can Can.” The hit was so influential that it led the Pointer Sisters to become the first Black female group to perform at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry.
