Thomas was best known for hits such as ‘High Energy’, ‘Doomsday’ and ‘Weak Spot’
Influential disco singer Evelyn Thomas has died aged 70. No cause of death has been given.
The news was shared by Northern soul legend Ian Levine, who took to X/Twitter to announce Thomas’ death. “It is hard for me to accept that my lifelong protege really has left us”, he wrote, adding that “her music will outlive us all”.
Levine worked with Thomas and co-producer Fiachra Trench to create the Hi-NRG classic ‘High Energy’ in 1984 and signed the singer to his label in 1975. Though the pair fell out of contact after their last recording session in 2009, Levine revealed that Thomas had “reached out to me in love” a few months ago knowing she was dying.
Upon hearing from Thomas, Levine and Trench “immediately dropped everything” to write one last song for her called ‘Inspirational’. Though Thomas was too sick to record the song, he revealed her daughter Kimberly (aka YaYa Diamond) intends to record the song as a tribute to her mother, adding that “Kimberly has been the most amazing and caring daughter”.
Evelyn Thomas was born in Chicago, Illinois on August 22, 1953. Working across genres such as disco, dance, and R&B, she was discovered by Levine in 1975, who signed her to his label.
It’s a sad feeling losing another talented voice. In the late 70s and during the 80s we used to dance the all time classic “High Energy” and “Cold Shoulder” along with other of her hits. She will be missed but her songs will be always in our hearts! Thank you Paul.
I felt so sad hearing this news about Evelyn Thomas. This record was huge in the New York tri-state area. It was a big favorite of mine too. I’m glad it was you Paul that I heard this from. It was quite appropriate of you since you are an expert in 80’s dance music.
I am really, really sad.
Jeff
Not only was the Thomas smash hit Hi-Nrg recorded at the legendary Trident room in Soho, it is one of these tracks that attempts to cash in on a sub genre by using its name as the track title. Remember all the sub standard tracks in 1984 with breakdance in the title? Clearly aimed at crossing over into mainstream dance charts and even top 40 pop, the sad thing that there are countless other releases in the Hi-Nrg sub genre that represent the true sound and feeling so much better. Oh well, mission accomplished with top chart postions in Spain,… Read more »
I learned, again, something today !
“The” Ian Levine who remixed “It’s a sin” was “related” to E.Thomas !
Small world 🙂
Sad news, as Ian said ‘her music will outlive us all’
“High Energy” is one of my all-time favorite dance tracks. The instrumental backing track is very reminiscent of Frankie’s “Relax”. This is truly sad news.
Lamentablemente noticia.