health
Patti LaBelle on Being Called a Legend: "I Have Earned It"
Updated on: May 24, 2026 / 5:42 PM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Patti LaBelle is celebrating her 82nd birthday, reflecting on her six-decade career and status as the "Godmother of Soul."
- She enjoys playing cards and continues to sing, calling it her life and noting her voice's versatility.
- LaBelle overcame shyness from her Philadelphia childhood and hurtful comments from a record executive to pursue her singing career.
- Her group Labelle achieved fame with hits like "Lady Marmalade," known for their "outrageous crazy outfits" and progressive themes.
- After the group split, LaBelle found success as a solo artist with therapeutic support and has also become a bestselling cookbook author and businesswoman.
- She intends to continue singing "until I can't no more" and embraces her earned title of "legend."