R&B Singer Teena Marie Dead At 54

 R&B legend Teena Marie has died, her manager confirmed on the 26th of December

Although no cause of death has been released as of press time, Teena Marie's publicist revealed that the singer had suffered a grand mal seizure last month in Los Angeles.

Teena Marie, 54, was born Mary Christine Brockert. She recorded a number of hit singles in the 70's, 80's, 90's and the 2000's.

Teena Marie was known for classic songs like "I'm A Sucker For Your Love" featuring Rick James, "Fire and Desire" featuring Rick James, "Behind the Groove," "Portuguese Love," "Dear Lover," "Out on A Limb" and "Square Biz," which featured her rapping.

Teena Marie originally signed with Motown in 1976 and was a protege of James, who took her under his wing shortly after she signed with the label.

Throughout the years, Teena Marie's was regularly sampled by a variety of rappers.

Artists like The Fugees ("Fu-Gee-La"), The Firm "Firm Biz" Jadakiss "By My Side featuring Ne-Yo" and numerous others have all incorporated Tina Marie's music into their own.

At one point, Teena Marie was also signed to Cash Money Records, where she released two albums for the label.

La Dona (2004) produced the single "I'm Still In Love," while her final album for Cash Money titled Sapphire (2007) produced the Top 40 single "Ooh Wee."

Bryan Williams paid tribute to Teena Marie via his official Twitter page. "R.I.P. Tina  Marie," Birdman said.

“We’re shocked and deeply saddened by the sudden loss of Teena Marie," said Philadelphia International Records' founders, Gamble & Huff, who honored Teena Marie in Philadelphia in 2008, during the R&B Foundation's Hall of Fame Induction ceremony for the singer.

"She was one of the most memorable, soulful and unique R&B vocalists to come out of Motown. We send or condolences to Teena’s family, the entire Motown family and of course, our dear friend Berry Gordy,” Gamble & Huff said.