Singer-songwriter Andrea Martin — best known for her work with R&B legends such as SWV, Toni Braxton and Monica — has passed away, it was announced on Monday (September 27). She was 49 years old.
Martin’s tragic passing was confirmed in an Instagram Story uploaded to her official account, which paid tribute to her passion, dedication and musical impact while asking for privacy. A cause of death has yet to be revealed.
“Dear Family and Friends, it is with a heavy heart we inform you of the passing of our beautiful Andrea Martin also known as ‘Annie,’” read the message. “Andrea will always be remembered for her passion and dedication to her family and friends. Her impact will continue to be felt and heard for a lifetime.
“We thank you in advance for your condolences, love, compassion and understanding during this time. Please limit calls as we are trying to finalize arrangements at this time. Once finalized we will be sure to post arrangements. Forever a legend. April 14 – September 27.”
Born in Brooklyn, New York and a graduate of the prestigious Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, Andrea Martin penned dozens of R&B hits throughout her 20-plus-year career, including Toni Braxton’s “I Love Me Some Him,” En Vogue’s “Don’t Let Go (Love),” SWV’s “You’re the One,” Monica’s “Before You Walk Out Of My Life,” Blu Cantrell’s “Breathe” and Melanie Fiona’s “It Kills Me.”
Martin also graced the mic herself and released her first and only album The Best of Me in 1998, while guest starring on several rap songs such as Outkast’s “Babylon,” Kanye West’s “The Morning,” The Game’s “One Night,” Pusha T’s “Take My Life” and Lil Kim’s “Money Talks.”
Tributes have been pouring in from fans and fellow musicians alike in the wake of Andrea Martin’s passing, with Melanie Fiona, DJ Premier, Monica, Organized Noize and Salaam Remi among those paying their respects on social media.
“I am shattered over this,” Melanie Fiona wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post. “I don’t think I’ll ever find the words or write the song to express how much you mean to me. You took me under your wing and were infinitely generous with your time and your talents. Every session, car ride, visit and phone call was filled with laughter and wisdom.
“You were my musical collaborative soul mate, my friend, a creative genius, a loving mother, a LEGEND. Anyone who knew you is blessed to have experienced your greatness. We had more to do, but I am eternally grateful for every ounce of magic we made. Thank you for pouring into me the way you did. You made me better than I knew I could be. I will miss you forever.”
Check out more tributes below. HipHopDX sends its condolences to Andrea Martin’s friends, family and loved ones.
Cause of death: She looked into a mirror. Probably couldn’t take looking like an a American Horror Story character now.
Are you eight years old? If not, you should probably seek some psychological help.
You should be ashamed…what a horrible thing to say. RIP Queen A…we luv u.
Ignorant comment from a ignorant a$$ person!!
If no one told you today Jesus loves you and you need a hug
SUCH A TALENTED LOW KEY ARTIST THAT STRIVED THROUGHOUT THE DECADES. LET ME RETURN THE FAVOR IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE JAMS OF THAT ERA. AND SHE WENT IN ON ONE NIGHT WITH THE GAME. BROUGHT AN ILL VIBE TO THAT RECORD. R.I.P.
Only know her by her music a tragic loss for us all
So sad!! Gone too soon!! Rest In Peace
A huge fan of all of those songs she’s been credited with and not to mention her very own Return the favour. That was my first interaction with her craft. I was instantly hooked. It’s a feel good track bout real situations fit for any mood or environment. R.I.P black queen.