Nedra Talley Ross, the last surviving member of the ’60s girl group The Ronettes, has aged 80.
Ross, who died at her home yesterday (Sunday 26 April), was one part of the seminal band with her cousins Ronnie Spector and Estelle Bennett.
The news of her death was confirmed in a statement shared on the Ronettes’ official social media, which described her as a “light to those who knew and loved her”.
“As a founding member of The Ronettes, along with her beloved cousins Ronnie and Estelle, Nedra’s voice, style and spirit helped define a sound that would change music,” the post read. “Her contribution to the group’s story and their defining influence will live forever.”
"Rest peacefully dear Nedra. Thanks for the magic."
The Ronettes formed in 1957 and rocketed to fame due to their collaboration with music producer Phil Spector.
They only released one studio album - ‘Presenting the Fabulous Ronettes Featuring Veronica’ - in 1964, but that was enough for The Ronettes to become iconic and a lasting influence on the likes of Blondie, the New York Dolls and Amy Winehouse.
Among their hit songs are ‘Be My Baby’, ‘Baby, I Love You’, ‘(The Best Part Of) Breakin’ Up’ and ‘Walking In The Rain’.
In 1964, the Rolling Stones were their opening act in the UK, and The Ronettes went on to open for the Beatles on their 1966 US tour - becoming the only girl group to tour with them, before splitting up in 1967.
The Ronettes were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007.
Talley Ross and her husband had four children together. He died in 2023.
Estelle Bennett died in 2009, while Ronnie Spector died in 2022.
RIP Nedra Talley Ross 1946 - 2026
