Who is Minnie Riperton?

Besides my favorite soul singer.

I first heard Minnie Riperton on her track “Les Fleurs” while listening to a Spotify radio playlist based on Diana Ross. I found the lyrics whimsical and powerful, but it wasn’t until I explored her discography further that I heard what made Minnie a standout in her short career: Her extreme soprano range and whistle register. Anyone can develop a whistle register, the highest point of a vocal range beyond falsetto or head voice, but Minnie could reach this high note and enunciate. This rare skill that can be heard on her songs “Inside My Love” and “Here We Go.” She was also known for her uncanny ability to imitate instruments with her voice. Her career spanned the 60s and 70s.

Minnie is also the mother of comedian and actress Maya Rudolph! I didn’t know this until recently, but now it’s clear as day when I look at the album art of any of Minnie’s albums—which are pieces of art in and of themselves.

My personal favorite is the cover of her 1975 album Adventures in Paradise.

She was attacked but not injured by the lion while shooting promo for the record. Here is a truly bananas clip of a talk-show interview she gave where she tells the story and shows footage of the attack. Don’t worry, mom, it’s not gruesome at all.

Minnie may have survived the lion attack, but she died of breast cancer at age 31. She left behind her husband, music producer Richard Rudolph, their children, Maya and Marc, and five solo albums.

I put together a few of my favorites into a playlist for you.

Until next week,

Elizabeth

This newsletter is just one facet of Zhuzh, my platform dedicated to conscious consumption and making space for delight. I offer secondhand-and-vintage-based wardrobe and interior styling services, art curation, and super chill life coaching. Keep up with me on Instagram and learn more at www.zhuzhlife.com.