Singer And Documentary Subject Sharon Jones Has Died At 60

miss sharon jones

2016 seems to be a year that was consistently filled with tragedy. In the entertainment world, it seems like you can't turn a corner without learning that another living legend or talent has passed away. From mythical actors like Alan Rickman and Gene Wilder, to young talent like Anton Yelchin, it's certainly been a rough year. Now another immense talent has passed away before her time.

Sharon Jones, lead singer of soul band Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, has passed away at 60. According to BBC, Jones passed away at a New York hospital after a long and painful battle with pancreatic cancer. She was surrounded by members of her band, who were like family to the late singer.

Miss Jones was a powerhouse voice and high energy performer that brought soul back to a modern audience. She received her big break in 2000 when the Dap-Kings released their first album. Sharon Jones and the band would eventually go on to be nominated for a Grammy Award, and performed in exciting venues like the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade and Ellen.

The late singer's battle with pancreatic cancer has been a public one. In addition to sharing her story with audiences during concerts, she was also the subject of a hilarious and gripping documentary Miss Sharon Jones!. The doc followed Sharon's life as she battled pancreatic cancer the first time. We saw Sharon vulnerable, her intense relationship with her craft, as well as the strength of character she clung to as she was eventually in remission. Miss Sharon Jones! ended on the ultimate high note, with Sharon taking the stage cancer free and bringing the audience to their feet with tears of joy.

You can check out the trailer for Miss Sharon Jones! below, which was aired digitally and on Starz.

Unfortunately, the pancreatic cancer eventually returned in 2015. But rather than give up, Sharon Jones continued to fight the disease, while also sharing her talent with the world whenever she felt physically able.

Sharon Jones' passing is sure to be felt by the many fans who have fell in love with Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, as well as the new audience who saw Miss Sharon Jones!. Our thought are with her band and loved ones at this time.

Corey Chichizola
Movies Editor

Corey was born and raised in New Jersey. Graduated with degrees theater and literature from Ramapo College of New Jersey. After working in administrative theater for a year in New York, he started as the Weekend Editor at CinemaBlend. He's since been able to work himself up to reviews, phoners, and press junkets-- and is now able to appear on camera with some of his favorite actors... just not as he would have predicted as a kid. He's particularly proud of covering horror franchises like Scream and Halloween, as well as movie musicals like West Side Story. Favorite interviews include Steven Spielberg, Spike Lee, Jamie Lee Curtis, and more.