R&B Star and (Lovergirl) Singer Teena Marie Dead at 54

R&B songstress Teena Marie has died at the age of 54. Details of the singer's death are scarce but she reportedly passed away in her sleep. The confirmation came from a publicist, Jasmine Vega, who worked with Teena Marie on her last album. Her manager, Mike Gardner, also confirmed her death to CNN.

Born Marie Christine Brockert, Teena Marie -- famously known as Rick James' protegee as well as her nickname 'The Ivory Queen of Soul' -- rose to fame in the late 70s and 80s. The Grammy nominated singer-songwriter released her debut 'Wild and Peaceful' via Motown Records in 1979. The album featured 'I'm a Sucker for Your Love,' Marie's first Top Ten hit, but Marie would go on to have many more hits, including 'Square Biz,' 'Lovergirl' and 'Ooo La La La.'

The cover of 'Wild and Peaceful' did not feature her image, with Motown apparently fearing backlash by audiences if they found out the songstress with the dynamic voice was white.

Teena Marie's official Web site pays respect to the departed star. Credit: IvoryQueenofSoul.com

Marie's career spanned four decades. During her tenure with Motown, the singer-songwriter and musician produced passionate love songs and funk jam songs like 'Need Your Lovin',' and 'Behind the Groove.' She released 13 albums, including 2009's 'Congo Square.' 'Congo Square' was a nod to an area in the Treme section of New Orleans where slaves would gather in the 18th century to perform. Marie collaborated with her daughter Alia Rose on the project and also teamed with Faith Evans, MC Lyte and Shirley Murdock.

Marie had a daughter and had toured in recent years after overcoming an addiction to prescription drugs. Get More About Teena at The Boombox

Teena Marie's 'Lovergirl'