A disco and soul singer-dancer known for her powerful voice and iconic 1979 hit "Knock on Wood", which topped the charts worldwide. She's a nostalgic reminder of the flashy, funky 70s disco era.
Amii Stewart is an American disco and soul singer who skyrocketed to fame with her 1979 U.S. Billboard number one hit cover of Eddie Floyd's song "Knock on Wood". This iconic hit, often considered a classic of the disco genre, cemented Stewart's place as a leading lady of disco.
Born on January 29, 1956, in Washington, D.C., Stewart grew up in a big, strictly Catholic, but fun-loving, country-style family. Her father, Joseph Stewart II, recognized her talent early on and enrolled her in singing and dancing lessons at the tender age of four.
As a young adult, Stewart briefly attended Howard University in Washington, D.C., before leaving to pursue her passion for dance with the Classical Repertory Dance Ensemble (CRDE). It was during this time that she changed the spelling of her first name from "Amy" to "Amii", as an Amy Stewart was already registered with the Actors Equity Association.
In 1975, Stewart joined the touring company for the stage production of the musical revue "Bubbling Brown Sugar", which took her to various locations, including Miami, New York City's Broadway, and eventually London's West End. It was in London that she met Barry Leng, songwriter and record producer for Hansa Records, who would later become instrumental in her solo music career.
Stewart's first recording, "You Really Touched My Heart", a Leng-May composition, was released in 1977. Her debut album, which included five Leng-May songs, one Leng-Morris song, and three cover versions, was released in February 1979. The album spawned two hit singles: "Knock on Wood" and "Light My Fire", both of which received significant airplay and propelled Stewart to international stardom.
Stewart's rendition of "Knock on Wood" earned her a platinum record and a Grammy Award nomination. The song's success also led to her being named Best New Artist at the 1979 American Music Awards.
Stewart is the step-sister of actress-singer Miquel Brown and aunt to Brown's daughter, singer Sinitta. Her impact on the music industry extends beyond her own success, as she paved the way for future generations of female disco and soul singers.
Today, Amii Stewart remains an iconic figure in the world of disco, with her music continuing to inspire and influence new artists. Her legacy serves as a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a passion for the arts.
82 Years Old
A legendary disco diva behind the iconic anthem "I Will Survive," a timeless symbol of empowerment and perseverance.
35 Years Old
A British grime artist known for his energetic flow and lyrics that often touch on social issues and personal struggles, blending street sensibility with introspection.
78 Years Old
A pioneering figure in the disco and LGBTQ+ movements, known for flamboyant androgynous appearance and hits like "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)".
