Ronnie Spector, '60s pop icon’ passes away

Renowned American singer Ronnie Spector— pop icon of the 1960s as part of The Ronettes, passed away, her family said in a statement on Wednesday. She was 78.   

Spector, the leader of girl group The Ronettes, after a brief battle with cancer, the statement said.

“Ronnie lived her life with a twinkle in her eye, a spunky attitude, a wicked sense of humour and a smile on her face. She was filled with love and gratitude,” the family said. 

“Her joyful sound, playful nature and magical presence will live on in all who knew, heard or saw her,” they added.

Born on 10 August 1943, Spector was the daughter of an African American-Cherokee mother and Irish American father. 

She formed the musical group with her sister Estelle Bennett and cousin Nedra Talley, gaining traction in the New York area with their soulful songs of young love.

The Ronettes broke up in 1967 following a European concert tour.

In 1968, Ronnie married Phil Spector, once the king of rock 'n' roll producers.