Denise Matthews, also known by her stage name Vanity, was a Canadian singer, actress, and model who made a name for herself in the entertainment industry in the 1980s. Her glamorous beauty and sultry voice captivated audiences and made her an icon in pop culture.
Matthews was born in Niagara Falls, Ontario, in 1959 and began her career as a model in her teenage years. She went on to become the lead singer of the girl group Vanity 6 and recorded hits such as "Nasty Girl" and "Sex Shooter". In addition to her music career, Matthews appeared in a number of films and TV shows, including the cult classic "The Last Dragon" and the hit series "Miami Vice".
Despite her success in the entertainment industry, Matthews faced personal struggles and addiction throughout her life. She found solace in religion in the 1990s and became a born-again Christian. She continued to perform and record music until her death in 2016 due to kidney failure.
Throughout her career, Matthews earned a substantial net worth, thanks to her music, acting, and modeling jobs. In this article, we will take a closer look at her life, career, and net worth, giving you all the details you need to know about this unforgettable icon of the 1980s.
Early Life and Career
Denise Matthews, also known as Vanity, was born in 1959 in Niagara Falls, Canada. Her parents were of mixed heritage - her mother was of Polish and Jewish descent, while her father was of African American and Native American descent. Matthews grew up in a troubled household, where her parents often fought and eventually divorced when she was a child.
At the age of 17, Matthews moved to Toronto, where she began modeling and appearing in television advertisements. She was soon discovered by the musician Prince, who offered her a spot in his all-female band, Vanity 6. Matthews accepted and became the lead singer of the group.
Vanity 6 released their debut album in 1982, which included the hit song "Nasty Girl." Matthews went on to pursue a solo career and released several albums throughout the 1980s. She also appeared in a number of films, including "The Last Dragon" and "Action Jackson."
Matthews struggled with drug addiction throughout much of her life and eventually became a born-again Christian. She passed away in 2016 at the age of 57 due to kidney failure.
Rise to Fame
Denise Matthews, also known as Vanity, started her entertainment career as a model before turning to singing and acting. After meeting Prince in 1980, he convinced her to become a part of his music group, Vanity 6. The group's debut album was released in 1982 and featured the hit single "Nasty Girl".
Following her success with Vanity 6, Denise pursued a solo career and released two albums, "Wild Animal" and "Skin on Skin". She also appeared in several movies, including "The Last Dragon" and "Action Jackson".
Denise's career was marked with controversy, including drug addiction and struggles with her body image. However, she also became a born-again Christian in the early 1990s and dedicated herself to spreading her faith through song and ministry.
Despite her short-lived career, Denise Matthews left a lasting impression on the entertainment industry and inspired many with her talent and perseverance.
Personal Life and Relationships:
Denise Matthews was a very private person with a tumultuous personal life. She was married twice, first to rock musician Gregg Allman, and later to former professional football player Anthony Smith. Both marriages ended in divorce.
Matthews battled addiction for much of her adult life, and was open about her struggles with substance abuse. She later became a devout Christian and renounced her previous lifestyle.
In the mid-1990s, Matthews began a relationship with filmmaker and founder of The Last Emperor clothing line, Bobby James. The couple remained together until Matthews' death in 2016.
Although Matthews had no children, she was a caregiver to her ex-husband Gregg Allman's children from his previous relationships.
Health Issues and Passing
Despite her fame and success, Denise Matthews struggled with a number of health issues throughout her life. She was reportedly addicted to cocaine, which led to a heart attack in the early 1990s. She turned her life around and became a born-again Christian, but continued to suffer from health problems.
In 2015, Denise Matthews passed away from kidney failure at the age of 57. Her passing was a shock to many, and fans around the world mourned the loss of a talented performer. In the aftermath of her death, tributes poured in from colleagues and admirers alike.
Despite her untimely passing, Denise Matthews left behind a legacy of music, film, and fashion. Her influence on pop culture is undeniable, and she will always be remembered as a trailblazer who challenged conventional norms and broke barriers for women in the entertainment industry.
Net Worth and Legacy
Denise Matthews had a successful career in the entertainment industry and amassed a considerable net worth before her passing in 2016. Her estimated net worth is $1.5 million.
Matthews' legacy goes beyond her music and acting career. She was known as an advocate for issues such as AIDS awareness and LGBT rights. She dedicated her time and resources to various charitable causes, including the Children's Aid Society and the Look to the Stars Foundation.
Matthews' impact on the entertainment industry was significant, as she helped to break down barriers and pave the way for other artists. Her contributions to the musical genre of pop, as well as her memorable performances in films like "The Last Dragon," have cemented her place in history.
Matthews' legacy continues to inspire and influence many around the world. Her message of acceptance and equality continues to resonate with fans, and her generous spirit lives on through the causes she supported.
- Denise Matthews had a net worth of $1.5 million.
- She was an advocate for issues such as AIDS awareness and LGBT rights.
- Matthews' contributions to the entertainment industry have cemented her place in history.
- Her legacy continues to inspire and influence many around the world.
FAQ
Who is Denise Matthews and what did she do?
Denise Matthews, also known as Vanity, was a Canadian singer, songwriter, actress, and model. She was best known for her work as a lead singer in the girl group Vanity 6 and for her roles in several movies.
What was Denise Matthews' height and figure?
Denise Matthews was 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) tall and had a slender and well-proportioned figure. She was known for her exotic looks, which were a blend of African American, Native American, and European ancestry.
What was Denise Matthews' net worth at the time of her death?
According to sources, Denise Matthews' net worth was around $1 million at the time of her death in 2016. However, this figure could have been higher or lower depending on various factors.
How did Denise Matthews die?
Denise Matthews died in February 2016 at the age of 57 due to kidney failure. She had been battling various health issues for several years, including kidney failure, sclerosis, and a crack cocaine addiction.
What was Denise Matthews' age when she passed away?
Denise Matthews was 57 years old when she passed away in February 2016. She had been born on January 4, 1959, in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada.
