The Emotions singer Pamela Hutchinson has died aged 61, her family confirmed.
Pamela was a member of the Grammy-winning group, best known for the hit Best Of My Love, alongside her older sisters Jeanette, Sheila and Wanda Hutchinson.
In a statement shared on the band’s Facebook page, her sisters said that she had “succumbed to health challenges that she’d been battling for several years.”
“In loving memory, we are saddened to announce the passing of our sister, Pamela Rose Hutchinson, on Friday, September 18, 2020,” they said. “Pam succumbed to health challenges that she'd been battling for several years.
“Now our beautiful sister will sing amongst the angels in heaven in perfect peace. During this time, the family kindly asks for fans and friends to respect our privacy.”
They said they “appreciate all kind words, photos, and videos you may want to post for our beloved Pamela and of course your loving prayers.
"A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. We love you, Pamela!"
The band started out as a family gospel outfit in the 1960s before switching their sound to soul and R&B.
In the 70s the group caught the attention of Maurice White from Earth, Wind & Fire, who co-wrote Best Of My Love.
The band also appeared as backing vocalists on Earth, Wind & Fire’s classic track Boogie Wonderland.
