As y’all already know, Ashford & Simpson, graced us with some bangers throughout the years, including their hits, “Solid as a Rock,” “Is It Still Good To You,” “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” and more. Valerie Simpson and her late husband, Nick Ashford, also wrote countless multiplatinum selling hits for other artists, such as Chaka Khan’s “Im Every Woman,” Marvin Gaye’s and Tammi Terrell’s “You’re All I Need To Get By,” and many more. What many fans never knew though, is that Valerie comes from a very musical family, and even more shocking is that her that her brother is also a famous singer from the 70’s and 80’s eras.

Meet Valerie Simpson’s Brother

Meet Valerie’s brother, Ray Simpson. You may not know his face at first glance, but you’re probably very familiar with his and his group members’ legacy. He’s the lead singer of The Village People. Yep, as in the “YMCA” singers.

But the talented sibling syndrome doesn’t stop here for Valerie, her other brother, Jimmy Simpson, is a successful music producer who produced the soul group GQ, best known for hits like Disco Nights (Rock-Freak) and I Do Love You. Who knew right?

This helps explain why Valerie is so good at what she does. In addition to her tremendous love for music and her dedication to her craft, she was surrounded by talent all of her life, as well.

Ray Simpson and the rest of the Village People still pack houses to this very day and they perform regularly. Check out video of Ray Simpson performing with the Village People below…

https://youtu.be/kTYEOAX3sjM?t=13s

What Valerie Simpson Is Doing Now

Valerie Simpson, has been hangin’ in there ever since the passing of her better half, Nick Ashford. In March 2018, Valerie entered into a new profession- as a Broadway actress in the hit stage play, “Chicago Musical,” where she’s playing the role of “Mama Morton.” Her family and friends -including the legendary singer, Freddie Jackson- showed up to supported her Broadway debut…

https://www.instagram.com/p/BgRaIzzBsIX/

She also released a solo album in 2012, titled Dinosaurs Are Coming Back Again, and she was featured on the title track for the neo-soul duo, Kindred and the Family Soul’s, 2014 album, A Couple Friends. See the video here…

Valerie is also continuing to not only feed the souls of her fans with great music, but also feed the bellies of folks with some country style soul food at her NY restaurant, Sugar Bar, which she and Nick opened up in 1996. It’s been a hot spot for everyone from Stevie Wonder, to Freddie Jackson, Stephanie Mills, Whoopi Goldberg, Eddie Murphy and a bunch of other celebs.

Nick Ashford was a remarkable talent and it’s sad that his life was cut so short, but it’s beautiful to see Valerie continuing to spread what she and Nick built together. We wish Valerie and her brother Ray Simpson much continued success.

The post Valerie (of Ashford & Simpson) Has A Famous Singer Brother & Fans Surprised By Who He Is appeared first on I Love Old School Music.