Georgeanna Tillman

Georgeanna Tillman 1963 (cropped)

American singer and actress

Birth name	Georgeanna Marie Tillman
Also known as
Born	June 6, 1943 Detroit, Michigan, U.S.
Origin
Died	January 6, 1980 (aged 36) Detroit, Michigan, U.S.
Genres	R&B, soul
Occupation(s)	Singer, actress
Instrument(s)

Georgeanna Marie Tillman (June 6, 1943 – January 6, 1980) was an American singer and actress, best known as an original member of the Motown girl group The Marvelettes.

Early Life

Georgeanna Tillman was born in Detroit, Michigan. She grew up in a musical environment and developed an early interest in singing. Tillman attended Inkster High School, where she met her future bandmates.

Career

In 1960, Tillman, along with Gladys Horton, Katherine Anderson, Juanita Cowart, and Georgia Dobbins, formed a group initially called "The Casinyets" (a contraction of "can't sing yet"). They later changed their name to The Marvelettes after signing with Motown Records.

The Marvelettes achieved immediate success with their debut single, "Please Mr. Postman", which became the first Motown song to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Tillman contributed to the group's harmonies and occasionally took on lead vocals.

Health Issues and Departure

In the early 1960s, Tillman was diagnosed with lupus and sickle cell anemia. Her health issues began to affect her ability to perform, and she was forced to leave The Marvelettes in 1965. Despite her departure, the group continued to enjoy success with hits like "Don't Mess with Bill" and "The Hunter Gets Captured by the Game".

Later Life and Death

After leaving the music industry, Tillman lived a relatively private life. She passed away on January 6, 1980, at the age of 36, due to complications from sickle cell anemia and lupus.

Legacy

Georgeanna Tillman is remembered for her contributions to The Marvelettes and the early success of Motown Records. Her work helped pave the way for future generations of female vocal groups.

See Also

• The Marvelettes
• Motown
• Please Mr. Postman
• Lupus
• Sickle cell anemia

External Links

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