Pointer, Anita (1948–)

views updated

Pointer, Anita (1948–)

African-American pop singer. Born Jan 23, 1948, in Oakland, CA; dau. of ministers; sister of Bonnie, Ruth and June Pointer.

With Bonnie and June, sang background vocals for such performers as Elvin Bishop, Taj Mahal, Dave Mason, Boz Scaggs, and Esther Phillips, then released 1st single on Atlantic to little success (1972); with Ruth joining them, became the Pointer Sisters, recording "Yes We Can Can" and "Wang Dang Doodle" for ABC's Blue Thumb label, which hit both the pop and R&B charts and brought them national recognition (1973); made guest appearances on tv variety shows; with sisters, became the 1st African-American women to perform at Nashville's Grand Ole Opry and the 1st pop act to play San Francisco Opera House; minus Bonnie, signed with Planet Records and had a steady string of hits (1980s), including "Fire," "He's So Shy," "Slow Hand," "I'm So Excited," and "Neutron Dance"; also had 2 platinum albums, Break Out and Contact; made solo album: Love for What It Is (1987); with sisters, released album Only Sisters Can Do That (1994).

See also Women in World History.