Opera Star Jessye Norman Dead at 74
Jessye Norman, the opera star whose passionate soprano voice won her four Grammy Awards, has passed away at 74, a family spokesperson says.
The Met mourns the loss of Jessye Norman (1945–2019), one of the great sopranos of the past half-century, who sang more than 80 unforgettable performances with the company. We extend our condolences to Ms. Norman’s family and friends. https://t.co/38WXiHkKPg
Photo: Met Archives pic.twitter.com/DXzWKl8o7U— Metropolitan Opera (@MetOpera) September 30, 2019
Following the news of her death at age 74, fans shared messages of condolences on social media. Among them: Al Roker, Raquel Willis, and Ann Coulter.
The great soprano Jessye Norman has died. Stop whatever you're doing and listen to this – a voice from God.https://t.co/OevW2pm5nA
— Ann Coulter (@AnnCoulter) September 30, 2019
An American treasure, operatic soprano Jessye Norman has died at 74. Her voice, her presence and her spirit changed lives, civil rights and the people who came to be enthralled in her performance. pic.twitter.com/5wwhvCznrJ
— Al Roker (@alroker) September 30, 2019
Jessye Norman is a barrier-breaking icon that will live on forever. I heard her name often enough growing up and being an arts school kid. Proud to share a hometown with her. https://t.co/ybfFPeoB4i
— Raquel Willis (she/her) (@RaquelWillis_) September 30, 2019
One of the greatest of the greats. RIP divine Jessye Norman. pic.twitter.com/JM73APkQSy
— Garth Greenwell (@GarthGreenwell) September 30, 2019
I’m saddened by the news of the passing of legendary opera singer Jessye Norman. The @librarycongress is the home of her papers where they will be preserved to inspire future generations. Tonight heaven has a new angel whose voice will echo through the clouds. pic.twitter.com/KDJr5P7Rd4
— Carla Hayden (@LibnOfCongress) September 30, 2019
I’m not a huge opera guy, but my maternal grandpa was an #opera singer. Jessye Norman was a real opera legend and a trailblazer for other African American women. Her voice was one for the ages and will endure. #RIPJessyeNorman https://t.co/llLWFnBBe0
— Lou DiBella (@loudibella) September 30, 2019