Chaka Khan is an R&B songstress whose career has been a long and profitable one, which has led her to earn a net worth of approximately $30 million. Her songs can be heard on the radio as well as in popular movies such as The 40 Year Old Virgin. She’s been in the business for decades, but that doesn’t mean you know all there is to know about Chaka Khan.
She Was in a Band
It surprises many people to know that Chaka Khan wasn’t always Chaka Khan the solo artist. In fact, she was a singer in a very popular and successful band by the name of Rufus for many years. For a decade, her band went platinum 8 times, won Grammy awards and ruled the scene in the funk and soul industry. That was in the 1960s. She went solo in the 1970s.
The 80s Were Not Good for Chaka Khan
She made it big with her band and on her own (think Fergie-style from The Black Eyed Peas) but she didn’t last long as a solo artist. The 80s, 90s and new millennium were not very kind to her in terms of popularity and success. However, she managed to make a killing with her 2007 comeback album.
She’s Not Really Chaka Khan
It’s a fun name that makes you wonder what her parents were thinking; but they didn’t name her this. She took on this name all by herself. Her real name is Yvette Stevens. She was given the name Chaka by an African high priest and she kept it. Khan came from a short marriage later in life.
She’s Sung on 85 Albums
Aside from the 22 albums released by her band, Rufus, and herself as a solo artist, Chaka Khan has made an appearance on 85 albums? These albums include some of the best collaborations in history, as well as some of the biggest artists in history.
Aretha Franklin Loves Chaka Khan
Aretha Franklin has one of the most successful music careers of all time, and she loves to have her favorite musicians perform at her birthday parties. Her favorite singer and guest to have at her parties in Chaka Khan.
(Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)
