Valerie Simpson Quotes

Singer-songwriter
1946

Valerie Simpson is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer. She is best known for her work as one half of the duo Ashford & Simpson, alongside her late husband Nick Ashford. Together, they wrote and produced numerous hit songs for artists such as Ray Charles, Diana Ross, and Marvin Gaye. Some of their most notable works include “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “You’re All I Need to Get By,” and “Solid.” Simpson has also released solo albums and has continued to write and produce music after her husband’s passing. She has been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and has received multiple Grammy nominations. Simpson’s talent and contributions to the music industry have solidified her as a legendary figure in the world of R&B and soul music.Read Less

If you don’t try and force it, a song will find the proper moment to come to life. Feraz Zeid, December 25, 2023, Valerie Simpson, Moments, 0

- Valerie Simpson

Singer-songwriter

Moments

Motown was the mecca. It was every writer’s dream to work there. Feraz Zeid, December 25, 2023, Valerie Simpson, Dream, 0

- Valerie Simpson

Singer-songwriter

Dream

Valerie Simpson Career Highlights

Simpson began her career as a backup singer for artists such as Ray Charles and Marvin Gaye in the 1960s.
In 1964, she met Nickolas Ashford and the two began writing songs together, leading to their first hit, “Let’s Go Get Stoned” for Ray Charles.
The duo signed with Motown Records in 1966 and wrote numerous hits for artists like Diana Ross, Gladys Knight & the Pips, and The Supremes.
In 1973, Ashford & Simpson released their first album as a duo, “Gimme Something Real,” which included the hit single “I Wanna Be Selfish.”
The duo’s biggest success came in the late 1970s and early 1980s with hits like “Solid,” “Found a Cure,” and “Street Corner.”
Simpson also had a successful solo career, releasing four albums and scoring a top 10 hit with “Silly, Wasn’t I” in 1972.
In 2002, Ashford & Simpson were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and in 2015, Simpson received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award for her contributions to music.

Key Contributions by Valerie Simpson

Simpson’s songwriting partnership with Nickolas Ashford produced some of the most iconic and enduring songs in the history of popular music.
Their songs have been covered by numerous artists, including Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, and Aretha Franklin, solidifying their place in music history.
Simpson’s powerful and soulful vocals have been a defining element of Ashford & Simpson’s music, earning her critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.
As a producer, Simpson has worked with artists such as Gladys Knight, Teddy Pendergrass, and Quincy Jones, showcasing her versatility and talent behind the scenes.

What Sets Valerie Simpson Apart

Simpson’s ability to seamlessly blend different genres, including R&B, soul, and disco, has set her apart from other artists and made her music timeless.
Her songwriting skills, combined with her powerful vocals, have made her a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
Simpson’s unwavering dedication to her craft and her ability to adapt to changing musical trends have allowed her to remain relevant and successful throughout her career.

Takeaways

Valerie Simpson’s career highlights and key contributions have solidified her place as one of the most influential and talented artists in the music industry.
Her songwriting partnership with Nickolas Ashford has produced timeless hits that continue to be celebrated and covered by artists today.
Simpson’s versatility as a singer, songwriter, and producer has allowed her to leave a lasting impact on the music world and inspire future generations of artists.

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