Patti LaBelle, 81, Embodies Resilience and Unwavering Ambition in ESSENCE Cover Story
New York, NY – At 81 years young, music icon Patti LaBelle is demonstrating that age is truly just a number, radiating a spirit of perseverance and a relentless drive for future success. In a deeply personal and inspiring cover story for ESSENCE magazine, LaBelle reflects on a life marked by both profound loss and extraordinary achievement, revealing the spiritual foundation that has sustained her through decades in the spotlight.
The article details how LaBelle’s faith has been a constant source of strength, particularly in the face of heartbreaking tragedy. She has mourned the loss of three sisters, all before the age of 44, a reality that imbues every birthday with a profound sense of gratitude. “My sisters all died so early-three sisters-and I’m still standing,” she shared quietly with ESSENCE. “Of course, prayer is in my life every second of every day. I don’t take anything for granted.”
This perspective fuels her continued ambition, even after a celebrated career. LaBelle openly expresses a desire to achieve a milestone that has eluded her: a platinum album. “Platinum albums and platinum music-I really want that,” she stated. “I’ve never had that. I’ve had gold, but I need some triple platinum. That would make me so happy. And at 81, I know I can still get it.”
The ESSENCE piece highlights LaBelle’s remarkable change from a once-fearful young woman to a fearless performer who embraced challenges like Dancing with the Stars in her 70s. She recalls the experience as initially terrifying, but ultimately empowering, inspiring countless others to step outside their comfort zones. “So many women and men came up and said, ‘God, you gave us so much encouragement to try to do things that we think we can’t do.'”
LaBelle attributes her success to a willingness to embrace opportunities,stating,”Most people block their blessings. I used to, but I don’t block them anymore. I try everything.” She believes in the power of possibility,encouraging others to pursue their dreams regardless of age.”Just because you’re [in your 70s] doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try Dancing with the Stars or The Masked Singer. Anything that somebody else can do, you can too.”
Defining the ESSENCE woman, LaBelle described her as “very, very, very, very well put together…Classy. Mothers, grandmothers. A go-getter woman.” She proudly identifies as an ESSENCE woman herself, embodying that spirit of ambition and determination.
As ESSENCE celebrates its 55th anniversary, LaBelle’s return to the ESSENCE Festival of Culture in New Orleans this July feels particularly significant. The magazine recognizes her as the perfect representation of its mission to inspire Black women across generations.
The article concludes with a festivity of LaBelle’s multifaceted identity - artist, entrepreneur, survivor, matriarch, and eternal optimist – and a hopeful anticipation for what the future holds. ESSENCE pledges to continue cheering her on as she embarks on her next chapter.
