The Women Songwriters Hall of Fame (WSHOF) is an organization that aims to recognize and celebrate the exceptional contributions of women to the world’s music songbook. One of the celebrated songwriters who was inducted into the inaugural WSHOF is Valerie Simpson. With a career spanning over five decades, Simpson has written and produced some of the most iconic songs in music history. In this article, we will delve into her career and explore her impact on the music industry.
Born in the Bronx in 1946, Simpson started playing piano at an early age and by the time she was in high school, she was writing her own songs. She met her future songwriting partner and husband Nickolas Ashford in 1964 when she was just 18. The two hit it off immediately and began writing songs together.
Their breakthrough came in 1966 when they wrote the hit song “Let’s Go Get Stoned” for Ray Charles. This led to a series of hits for the duo, including “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “You’re All I Need to Get By,” and “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing,” all of which were made famous by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. The couple’s own hits as Ashford & Simpson include “Solid,” “Found a Cure,” and “Is It Still Good to You.”
Valerie Simpson’s career has been defined by her ability to write songs that capture the essence of love and relationships. Her songs have a timeless quality that continues to resonate with audiences today. She has also been recognized for her powerful voice, which she has used to great effect in many of her own recordings.
In addition to her songwriting and singing talents, Simpson is also a talented musician and producer. She has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, including Diana Ross, Chaka Khan, and Whitney Houston. Her contributions to the industry have not gone unnoticed, and she has been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame.
Simpson’s induction into the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame is a testament to her talent and impact on the music industry. She has paved the way for many female songwriters and continues to inspire new generations with her music. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue for many years to come.
For more information, please visit: https://www.motownmuseum.org/artist/valerie-simpson/
The Women Songwriters Hall of Fame (WSHOF) is an organization dedicated to honoring and recognizing the exceptional contributions of women to the world’s music songbook. Our mission is to celebrate established women songwriters and support up-and-coming talent through workshops, showcases, discovery, and scholarships.
Join our community of music lovers and help us recognize and celebrate women songwriters throughout history. Visit our website for more information on our events, workshops, and other resources, and be sure to follow us on Facebook to stay up-to-date on our latest news and announcements.
