Mary Christine Brockert (March 5, 1956 – December 26, 2010), known professionally as Teena Marie, was an American soul and R&B singer, songwriter, and producer. Nicknamed Tina in childhood, she later became known as Lady T, a name given by friend and collaborator Rick James.
Renowned for her distinctive soprano vocals, many assumed she was Black. Her dedication to R&B and soul earned her the title Ivory Queen of Soul. She played rhythm guitar, keyboards, and congas, and was a four-time Grammy Award nominee.
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Teena Marie Net Worth
Teena Marie had a net worth of $3 million. Born in Santa Monica, California in March 1956, she passed away in December 2010. Known as the “Ivory Queen of Soul,” she was a major force in R&B and soul music, collaborating with Rick James. Her debut album Wild and Peaceful (1979) launched her career.
She played rhythm guitar and keyboards. Hits like “Ooo La La La”, “Square Biz,” and “Lovergirl” earned chart success. Albums La Dona, It Must Be Magic, and Sapphire all reached the Top 5.
Early Life
Mary Christine Brockert was born on March 5, 1956, in Santa Monica, California, to Thomas Leslie Brockert and Mary Anne. Raised in Mission Hills, she had Belgian, Portuguese, Italian, Irish, and Native American heritage. At age 2, she sang “Banana Boat Song”.
Credited as Tina Marie Brockert, she appeared on The Beverly Hillbillies. She taught herself guitar, bass, and congas, forming a band with brother Anthony. In Oakwood, Venice, she was influenced by godmother Berthalynn Jackson. She studied at Santa Monica College and performed in Truvair and The Music Man.
Career
In 1976, Mary Christine Brockert formed a band with friend Mickey Boyce and met Hal Davis of Motown Records. Though a film project fell through, Berry Gordy signed her as a solo artist. After years recording unreleased tracks, Rick James discovered her talent and chose to produce her over Diana Ross.
Their collaboration yielded her debut album Wild and Peaceful, featuring hit duet “I’m a Sucker for Your Love”. Credited as Teena Marie, she debuted on Soul Train in 1979, becoming its first white female guest.
Personal Life
Teena Marie gave birth to daughter Alia Rose on December 25, 1991, with Peter Butcher. Alia, known as Rose LeBeau in the late 2000s, performed with her mother and appeared on her final albums (La Doña to Beautiful). She later used her original name.
Teena Marie lived in Santa Monica, Inglewood, Pasadena, and Marina Del Rey. She was godmother to Maya Rudolph and Nona Gaye, and cared for Rick James Jr. and Jeremiah O’Neal. Lenny Kravitz credited her with helping him early in his career.
What was the cause of Teena Marie’s death?
On December 26, 2010, Teena Marie was found dead in her Pasadena home by daughter Alia Rose. An autopsy was performed on December 30, 2010, by the Los Angeles County coroner, revealing no signs of trauma or clear cause of death. It was concluded that she died of natural causes.
Her unexpected passing shocked the music industry and fans worldwide. Teena Marie, also known as the Ivory Queen of Soul, left behind a powerful legacy of soul and R&B music.
Conclusion
Teena Marie’s financial success is a reflection of her enduring legacy in the music industry. Despite the challenges she faced, her talent, dedication, and savvy business acumen ensured her place among the celebrated artists of her time, leaving a lasting impact on R&B and soul music.
FAQs about Teena Marie Net Worth
1. How did Teena Marie accumulate her net worth?
Teena Marie accumulated her net worth through album sales, live performances, and her work as a songwriter and producer.
2. Was Teena Marie’s music commercially successful?
Yes, several of her albums achieved gold or platinum status, and she had numerous hit singles.
3. Did Teena Marie have any significant collaborations?
Yes, she collaborated with notable artists like Rick James and Smokey Robinson, enhancing her musical and financial portfolio.
4. What genres did Teena Marie’s music cover?
Teena Marie was versatile, covering R&B, soul, funk, and even jazz in her later years.
5. What legacy did Teena Marie leave in the music industry?
Teena Marie left a legacy of breaking racial barriers in music, pioneering in soul and R&B, and inspiring future generations with her talent and resilience.
