Kathy Sledge is an American singer, songwriter and producer, best known as the youngest and founding member of the legendary vocal group Sister Sledge. Born in Philadelphia, she grew up in a musically rich family environment and began performing professionally as a child alongside her sisters. As the lead vocalist on Sister Sledge’s biggest hits, she helped define the group’s signature sound and became internationally recognised for her powerful and expressive voice. Her contributions to songs such as He’s the Greatest Dancer and We Are Family have left a lasting mark on global popular music.
Sister Sledge were formed in 1971, with Kathy joining her sisters Debbie, Joni and Kim to create a unique blend of R&B, soul, disco and pop. Their breakthrough came in 1979 with the album We Are Family, produced by Bernard Edwards and Nile Rodgers of Chic, which yielded multiple worldwide hits and earned a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Performance. During this era, Kathy’s vocals became a defining feature of the group’s sound as they toured internationally and achieved sustained chart success.
In 1989, Kathy launched her solo career while continuing to captivate audiences around the world. Her solo album, Heart, reached the R&B charts and produced dance chart successes, including Take Me Back to Love Again, which reached number one on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart, and All of My Love. She later collaborated with producers such as Robert Miles and released further dance and pop tracks, including Freedom and Give Yourself Up. Kathy has remained a dynamic and relevant performer, headlining festivals, international stages and special events while continually evolving her artistic output.
Kathy’s career includes numerous accolades, including her Outstanding Contribution to Music award at the 2013 DJ Awards in Ibiza. We Are Family was also added to the United States National Recording Registry for its cultural significance. With decades of music history behind her, Kathy Sledge continues to inspire new generations with her versatility, vocal brilliance and charismatic stage presence. She remains a standout choice for events seeking an iconic performer whose legacy spans disco, soul, dance and contemporary music.
