The music world mourned the loss of a true icon on June 13th with the passing of Angela Bofill at the age of 70. A gifted singer and songwriter, Angela Bofill carved a unique space in the R&B and jazz landscape during the late 1970s and 1980s. Her discography is filled with songs that explored the complexities of love and relationships, resonating deeply with a devoted fanbase, particularly women who found her music the soundtrack to their lives. But Angela Bofill’s artistry wasn’t confined to ballads; she also delivered infectious disco and post-disco tracks that continue to fill dance floors today. A trailblazer in every sense, she stood out as one of the few Latina artists to achieve prominence in R&B and jazz, earning a substantial following within the Black community.
Angela Bofill’s musical foundation was exceptionally strong. A graduate of the prestigious Manhattan School of Music, where she earned a Bachelor of Music degree in 1976, she effortlessly navigated genres including R&B, jazz, pop, easy listening, and blues. Her vocal prowess was marked by passion and versatility – a rare combination that set her apart. Throughout her impressive career, Angela Bofill released 10 studio albums, numerous singles that graced the charts, and contributed background vocals for renowned artists such as Diana Ross and Kirk Whalum. Her contributions to music were further recognized with her induction into the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2023. While mainstream superstardom may have eluded her, Angela Bofill was revered as a captivating live performer and a “singer’s singer,” admired by her peers for her exceptional talent and artistry.
Despite facing health challenges, including two strokes in 2006 and 2007, Angela Bofill’s passion for performance remained undimmed. She made a triumphant return to the stage in 2011, much to the joy of her dedicated fans. Being in front of an audience was where she truly belonged. “I feel happy performing again,” Angela Bofill shared in a Washington Post interview during her comeback. “I need a crowd. In the blood, entertain. Any time a crowd comes to see me, I’m surprised. No sing no more and still, people come. Wow. Impressed.” To honor her enduring impact on music, we spotlight 5 Iconic Angela Bofill Songs that define her remarkable career.
This Time I’ll Be Sweeter (1978)
Originally penned by Pat Grant and Gwen Guthrie and first recorded by Martha Reeves, “This Time I’ll Be Sweeter” found its definitive voice with Angela Bofill. Featured on her debut album Angie, released in 1978, Angela Bofill transformed the song into her breakout hit. Produced by Dave Grusin, this rendition of “This Time I’ll Be Sweeter” showcased Angela Bofill’s tender vocal delivery and became her first major chart success, reaching #23 on the Hot Soul Singles chart. This song remains a beloved classic and a perfect introduction to Angela Bofill songs for new listeners.
Angel of the Night (1979)
From her sophomore album, Angel of the Night, released in 1979, the title track “Angel of the Night” demonstrated Angela Bofill’s incredible vocal range and stylistic versatility. This song masterfully blends R&B and Latin jazz influences with a touch of New York disco energy. Angela Bofill’s charisma shines through, making “Angel of the Night” a standout track and a club favorite upon its release. It quickly became a staple in her live performances, remaining a fan favorite throughout her career. For those exploring Angela Bofill songs beyond her ballads, “Angel of the Night” is an essential listen.
I Try (1979)
Also from the Angel of the Night LP, “I Try,” which Angela Bofill co-wrote, is a quintessential quiet storm anthem. Released in 1979, “I Try” delves into the complexities of love and relationships with raw emotion and honesty. Angela Bofill’s passionate delivery of the chorus, “You know that I tried to be with you/You know that I wanted to see it through/You know that I needed to make you mine/It was only a matter of time,” encapsulates the yearning and vulnerability of love. “I Try” has become a gold standard in R&B, covered by artists like Will Downing, Leela James, and Peabo Bryson, further solidifying Angela Bofill’s brilliance as both a singer and songwriter of impactful songs.
What I Wouldn’t Do (For the Love of You) (1979)
Another gem from the Angel of the Night album, “What I Wouldn’t Do (For the Love of You),” released in 1979, showcases a different facet of Angela Bofill’s artistry. Set against a backdrop of a slick, funky mid-tempo groove, this track proves her ability to deliver more than just ballads. Peaking at #18 on the Hot Soul Singles chart, “What I Wouldn’t Do (For the Love of You)” demonstrated that Angela Bofill could create infectious tracks that energized dance floors while maintaining her signature vocal sophistication. This song highlights the breadth of Angela Bofill songs and her capacity to move seamlessly between soulful ballads and upbeat grooves.
I’m On Your Side (1983)
“I’m On Your Side,” released in 1983 on her fourth studio album Too Tough, is a testament to Angela Bofill’s enduring ability to capture the nuances of relationships. Co-written with Jeffrey Cohen and Narada Michael Walden, this song exemplifies Angela Bofill at her vocal best. “I’m On Your Side” once again tapped into the yearnings and realities of love with poignant lyrics and a heartfelt performance. Becoming another top 20 R&B hit for Angela Bofill, this track further cemented her legacy of creating songs that resonated deeply with listeners on an emotional level, far beyond chart positions. “I’m On Your Side” remains a powerful example of the timeless quality of Angela Bofill songs.
Angela Bofill’s musical contributions are undeniable. Her songs continue to inspire and move audiences, ensuring her legacy as a significant figure in R&B and jazz music endures. Exploring Angela Bofill songs is a journey into the heart of soulful music, guided by a truly exceptional artist.
