American singer, Anita Pointer dead at 74

Grammy award-winning singer and one of ‘The Pointer Sisters”, Anita Pointer died on  Saturday at the age of 74.

Anita’s publicist, Roger Neal told TMZ that her death was the result of a “somewhat lengthy and heroic battle with cancer.” she also reported that the singer passed away while she was with family members.

Anita’s sister and group member Ruth, along with brothers Aaron and Fritz, said in a statement, “While we are deeply saddened by the loss of Anita, we are comforted in knowing she is now with her daughter Jada and her sisters June & Bonnie and at peace. 

She was the one that kept all of us close and together for so long. Her love of our family will live on in each of us. Please respect our privacy during this period of grief and loss. Heaven is a more loving beautiful place with Anita there.”

Anita Pointer’s only daughter, Jada Pointer, died in 2003.

Anita, Ruth, Bonnie and June Pointer formed The Pointer Sisters in the late ’60s.

The group’s 1973 self-titled debut album included the breakout hit, “Yes We Can Can.” Known for hit songs including “I’m So Excited,” “Slow Hand,” “Neutron Dance” and “Jump (For My Love),” the singers gained a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1994.

The 1983 album “Break Out” went triple platinum and garnered two American Music Awards. The group won three Grammy Awards and had 13 U.S. top 20 hit songs between 1973 and 1985.

They were the first African American group to perform at the Grand Ole Opry.

RIP Anita Pointer.