Rochelle Fleming, the powerful lead singer of the popular R&B and disco group First Choice, has passed away at the age of 72. The Philadelphia-born singer passed away on November 5, 2026, in her hometown of Philadelphia. Her death was announced in a statement shared on her official Instagram account on November 9.
According to the announcement, her manager, George Iz Correia, shared the news on behalf of the Fleming-Finney family. The statement remembered Rochelle Fleming as someone who brought light, laughter and love to the world. The family also confirmed that details about memorial services would be announced later.
Rochelle Fleming's Journey With First Choice
Rochelle Fleming became widely known as the lead vocalist of First Choice, a Philadelphia-based R&B and disco group that gained popularity during the 1970s.
The group initially performed under the name Debonettes. Its original members included Rochelle Fleming, Annette Guest, Wardell Piper and Malanie McSears. In 1971, the singers formed First Choice while attending Overbrook High School in Philadelphia.
However, the group's lineup changed during its early years. McSears eventually left the group, while Piper, who performed on their first album, departed before its release in 1973. Joyce Jones later joined the lineup as her replacement.
First Choice's Popular Disco Hits
First Choice established a strong reputation in the R&B and disco music scene with several popular recordings. Their first album, Armed and Extremely Dangerous, was released in 1973.
The group went on to release memorable songs, including "The Player," "Doctor Love," "Guilty" and "Love Thang." One of their most recognised recordings was "Let No Man Put Asunder," which became especially influential in dance music.
The song gained renewed attention through remixes and sampling, helping introduce First Choice's music to new generations of listeners.
Despite their success, First Choice eventually split in 1980. During the 1980s, Rochelle Fleming made a brief attempt to bring the group back with her cousin Laconya Fleming and Lawrence Cotell.
Rochelle Fleming's Solo Music Career
After her work with First Choice, Rochelle Fleming continued exploring opportunities as a solo artist.
Her solo recordings included "Love Itch," "It's Not Over" and "Nobody's Fool." Although her solo career followed a different path, her distinctive voice remained an important part of her musical identity.
House DJ Lenny Fontana also paid tribute to the singer in a November 6 social media post. He highlighted her influence on modern dance music, noting that her vocals have been sampled in numerous recordings.
Music Industry Remembers Rochelle Fleming
News of Rochelle Fleming's death has brought tributes from across the music community.
Philadelphia-born group Sister Sledge remembered her for her beautifully soulful voice and music in a November 9 social media tribute. The group also shared condolences with her family and loved ones.
Rochelle Fleming's contribution to R&B, disco and dance music continues to reach audiences through First Choice's recordings and the artists who have sampled her work.
Her voice helped shape an important period in Philadelphia's musical history. Although Rochelle Fleming is no longer with us, her music and influence will remain part of disco's lasting legacy.
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