SYREETA

About

Also known as: Rita Wright, Syreeta Wright, Syreeta Wright Robertson, Syretta Wright

One of the more quietly essential figures in Motown history, Syreeta Wright spent years shaping other people's records before her own name ever appeared on a label. She co wrote "Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours)" with Stevie Wonder, sang background on classics by Martha and the Vandellas and the Supremes, and handed The Spinners a top 20 hit with "It's a Shame" before releasing a single under her own name. Her early solo albums were produced by Wonder, her ex husband, and leaned into a sensual, lush soul sound that drew comparisons to Minnie Riperton. The reggae tinged "Your Kiss Is Sweet" became her biggest solo chart moment in the UK, hitting number 12 in 1975. Her biggest commercial peak came as a duo act: "With You I'm Born Again" with Billy Preston reached number 4 in the US and number 2 in the UK. She recorded six solo albums in total, all on Motown imprints, with her last, The Spell, arriving in 1983.