Gwendolyn “Blondy” Chisolm was a respected musician who had an impact on the rap and hip hop scene in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s. She was a co-founding member of the group, The Sequence, with Cheryl “The Pearl” Cook and Angela “Angie B” Brown (also known as Angie Stone).
Remembering The Sequence Star Gwendolyn ‘Blondy’ Chisolm
Chisolm died on Monday, April 6, after a “brief illness,” Billboard reports. She was 66. Her memorial will be held privately.
The news of her passing was shared by her sister Monica Scott, who released a statement to Billboard. “My sister gave a lot of herself to the music industry. Everyone knows her famous lyrics and melodies, which continue to bring joy to millions of people,” Monica said. “She was a creative force who touched countless hearts.”
Monica described the family’s heartbreak but also shared a positive outlook as she remembered the beautiful life that her sister lived. “We take comfort in knowing that her beautiful spirit lives on through the songs she shared with the world. We hope the world will remember her as a passionate artist and a voice for a generation. You can honor her memory by turning up her music,” she said.
The Sequence enjoyed early industry success, and one of their most memorable hits is the 1979 track, “Funk You Up.” This is a song that many, including Billboard, describe as having “a key role in hip-hop’s evolution.” The band was active from 1979 until 1985. Billboard reports that Chisolm continued to work after The Sequence split up.
Tributes Pour In for Gwendolyn ‘Blondy’ Chisolm & Angie Stone
Tributes have been pouring in for Chisolm after the news of her passing. The Rock the Bells music festival paid tribute to her with a post on Facebook. “We’re heartbroken to hear about the passing of Gwen ‘Blondy’ Chisolm from the seminal group The Sequence. Condolences to the family and loved ones of this crucial contributor to the history of Hip-Hop,” they wrote, alongside a more recent photo of her.
Fans have shared their heartache in the comment section. “Just heartbroken Gwendolyn Chisolm aka Blondy 1 year and 2 months after my late cousin Angie Stone This have broken me,” a comment reads. “Omg Rest Easy Baby Girl Tell, Angie I say Hello I miss you both It’s never going to be the same now.” Stone died in a car accident on March 1, 2025. She was 63.
“Prayers and condolences to her family,” another fan shared.
Other reactions include, “Hug Angie for me when you see her sis!,” “I remember she was in that group with Angie Stone….Condolences to both families..,” and “First Angie Stone now Blondie. That group was talented!!”
