R & B singer Vesta Williams, perhaps best known for her 1989 hit “Congratulations,” was found dead yesterday at age 48 in a Los Angeles hotel room, according to reports. Her powerful four octave range will be sorely missed on today’s radio airwaves.  She scored several Top 20 hits on the Billboard R & B charts in the 80s and 90s and gained rave reviews for her jazz- tinged cover of SWV’s “Rain.” Vesta’s last album was put out through Shanachie Records in 2007.

The cause of death is unknown at this time.

Celeb Condolences on Twitter:

“R.I.P. Ms. Vesta Williams. Wht a tremendous talent+great soul! ‘Cuz as long as I can breathe, you’ll always be the one~for me!’”
- Kimora Lee Simmons

“So sorry 2hear Vesta Williams (@Vesta4U)passed. ‘My soul shakes~My heart breaks…’ #RIP”
- Sherrie Shepherd

“…just received truly devastating news: R&B great, and my friend of many yrs, Vesta Williams (@vesta4u), has passed away. #RIPVesta
- Jackee Harry

“Our dear sister and one of the sangiest diva’s ever ,vesta williams, has passed away. I loved that sister.”
-Sinbad

“I am so deeply saddend at the passing of my diva friend Vesta Williams. RIP Vesta”
-Sheryl Lee Ralph

 

 

 

More than just a vocal talent, Vesta was also a fashion forward woman with big bouncy hair, quirky accessories and grown-woman confidence.  Starting out as a more full-figured lady (she later underwent a dramatic weight loss), she proved that no matter what size you are, you can exude style, class and diva-tude.

Check out this gallery of some of Vesta’s looks over the years.