Patti LaBelle Tributes After 'Lady Marmalade' Singer Sarah Dash Dies at 76

Legendary singer Sarah Dash, member of the all-female group Labelle, died on Monday. She was 76 years old.

The group was best known for its 1974 hit "Lady Marmalade." Dash was also a member of Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles, an earlier moniker for the group.

Her fellow group member Patti LaBelle has led tributes to her friend and "awesomely talented, beautiful and loving soul."

"We were just onstage together on Saturday and it was such a powerful and special moment," Patti LaBelle said in a statement on Instagram.

"Sarah Dash was an awesomely talented, beautiful and loving soul who blessed my life and the lives of so many others in more ways than I can say. I could always count on her to have my back. That's who Sarah was... a loyal friend and a voice for those who didn't have one.

"She was a true giver, always serving and sharing her talent and time. I am heartbroken, as I know all of her loved ones and fans are. But I know that Sarah's spirit and all that she has given to the world live on. And I pray that her precious memory brings us peace and comfort. Rest in power my dear sister. I love you always!"

No cause of death has as yet been confirmed but Soul Tracks reports that Dash's passing was sudden and unexpected.

Dash's final performance took place on Saturday (September 18) when she joined Patti LaBelle on stage at a concert in New Jersey.

Tributes have been pouring in from music legends such as Nile Rodgers, Gloria Gaynor and others following the news of Dash's death.

"I just got home and heard my long time friend @sarahdash has passed away. I used to sneak into the rehearsal studio back in the day to listen to #labelle tear it up. #ripsarahdash," tweeted Nile Rodgers of Chic.

Singer Gloria Gaynor said she was saddened to hear of Dash's death.

"I'm saddened to hear of the passing of my peer and fellow New Jerseyan, @SarahDash. We have lost yet another great talent. My heartfelt condolences to her family, friends & fans," she tweeted.

Musician Bootsy Collins added: "Danggit! We lost another, Ms. Sarah Dash (8-18, 1945 – 9 20, 2021) was an American singer & actress. She 1st appeared as a member of Patti LaBelle & The Bluebelles, later in Labelle, worked as a singer, musician & sideman for The Rolling Stones, and Keith Richards. R.I.P WE LOVE!"

"Rest well my friend #SarahDash. Your kind spirit and words will always have a special place in my heart. You will be missed," said singer Stephanie Mills.