Evelyn Thomas, the influential disco singer celebrated for her international hit “High Energy,” has passed away at the age of 70.
The news was shared by Ian Levine, Thomas’ longtime collaborator, in a heartfelt Facebook post on July 21. Levine reminisced about their enduring partnership and described Thomas as his “protégé.” He revealed that despite planning a new song titled “Inspirational” for Thomas to perform, her health declined rapidly, leading her daughter Kimberly, known as YaYaDiamond, to step in and perform in her honor.
Levine’s tribute extended beyond Facebook, reaching social media platforms including X (formerly Twitter), where he expressed his disbelief over Thomas’ departure. “Her music will outlive all of us,” Levine wrote, reflecting on Thomas’ lasting legacy.
While details about Thomas’ cause of death were not disclosed, Kimberly also took to social media to mourn her mother. She shared a collage of photos alongside Thomas’ iconic hit “High Energy,” paying tribute to “mommy Ellen Simpson AKA Evelyn Thomas.”
Born in Chicago on August 22, 1953, Thomas rose to prominence in 1975 under Levine’s guidance. Their collaboration saw the release of Thomas’ debut track “Weak Spot” in 1976, co-written by Levine and Paul David Wilson. Their musical journey continued with the 1978 debut album “I Wanna Make It On My Own,” and peaked with the 1984 chart-topping hit “High Energy,” a song Levine noted was crafted uniquely for Thomas and praised for its influence in the Hi-NRG genre.
“High Energy” not only topped the Billboard Hot Dance Club Party chart but also reached No. 85 on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying Thomas’ impact on disco and dance music. Rolling Stone recognized the song’s contribution to the vibrant Hi-NRG scene, describing it as a cornerstone in the genre’s evolution.
Evelyn Thomas leaves behind a musical legacy cherished by fans and peers alike, marking her as a pioneer in disco and dance music history.
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