Who Was Rochelle Fleming? 5 Things to Know on the R&B Singer Who Died – Hollywood Life

Rochelle Fleming left an unforgettable impression on R&B and disco music with a voice that helped define an era. As the lead singer of Philadelphia group First Choice, she is the voice behind several beloved dance hits from the 1970s, including songs that would go on to influence generations of fellow R&B artists.

Rochelle’s contributions to music continued long after her group’s early days. Unfortunately, the “Danger!” singer died in November 2026. Here, we’re remembering Rochelle for her life and career in music.

Rochelle Fleming Co-Founded First Choice in 1971

Rochelle was best known as a founding member and lead singer of First Choice, a Philadelphia-based R&B and disco group that formed in 1971. She started the group with fellow Philadelphia natives Annette Guest and Wardell Piper.

The three women originally performed together as the “Debonettes” before eventually becoming First Choice. Their big break came after they connected with Philadelphia music producer Norman Harris and songwriter Allan Felder.

First Choice became part of Philadelphia’s influential soul and disco music scene.

First Choice Had Several Hit Songs in the 1970s

First Choice scored its breakthrough in 1973 with “Armed and Extremely Dangerous.” The song became one of the group’s signature recordings and helped etch its place in the R&B and disco scene.

The group followed that success with “The Player (Part 1)” in 1974 and continued releasing popular dance tracks, including “Smarty Pants,” “Doctor Love,” “Love Thang” and “Double Cross.”

Their 1977 album, Delusions, featured another particularly influential recording: “Let No Man Put Asunder.”

Although First Choice disbanded in 1980, its recordings continued reaching new audiences through dance clubs, radio and later generations of musicians.

Her Song “Let No Man Put Asunder” Became a House Music Classic

One of Rochelle’s most famous musical contributions was First Choice’s “Let No Man Put Asunder.” Its soulful vocals and dance-floor-friendly sound made it especially popular among DJs and producers, so new audiences of different generations were able to enjoy it in clubs.

The recording also reached another generation of R&B listeners when Mary J. Blige covered it for her 1999 album Mary.

She Continued Making Music After First Choice Disbanded

After First Choice went their separate ways in 1980, Rochelle pursued a solo career. She continued exploring dance music and released recordings including “Love Itch” in 1985, “Danger!” in 1994 and “Suffer (The Consequences)” in 1995.

She continued performing throughout her later years. In May 2019, Rochelle appeared onstage at Elsewhere in Brooklyn, New York.

Following her death, BMG senior vice president of Global Catalog Recordings Dan Baxter praised her contributions, noting that First Choice recordings such as “Doctor Love,” “Love Thang” and “Let No Man Put Asunder” continued connecting with DJs and dancers around the world.

She Was Married to Robert Finney and Had a Close Relationship With Her Fans

Rochelle was married to her husband, Robert Finney, though she kept her personal life out of the spotlight. Her longtime manager, George Iz Correia, acknowledged her husband in a heartfelt tribute following her death.

“It is with a heavy heart to share the passing of, Rochelle Fleming-Finney,” George’s Instagram announcement read. “She was the founder of the R&B group, First Choice. She passed away on November 5, 2026 at the age of 72 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She bought light, laughter and love to the world. Services to celebrate her life will be announced at a later date. Thank you for your support during this difficult time.”