Khan was born Yvette Marie Stevens in Great Lakes, Illinois to Charles Stevens and Sandra Coleman. Her sister is dance music artist Taka Boom, and her brother is Mark Stevens of Aurra. Khan was raised on Chicago's South Side, and at the age of 11 formed her first group, the Crystalettes. While still in high school, she joined the Afro-Arts Theater, a group which toured with Motown great Mary Wells. Read more...

Rufus debuted in 1973 with a self-titled album on the ABC label. The first album contained fine fiery vocals by Chaka Khan and "phat trax" from the band but failed to make an impression with the record buyers, due in no small part to the uncharacteristic "new" sound of the ensemble. However, by decade's end, Rufus was among the most successful funk groups, rivaling the popularity of Earth Wind & Read more...

In 1978, Khan recorded her debut solo album Chaka featuring the Arif Mardin-produced disco hit "I'm Every Woman" (#1 R&B and #21 Pop) later covered by Whitney Houston. Chaka proved to be a significant hit on the strength of the single written by Ashford & Simpson, however Khan's success was somewhat tempered by her public rivalry with the remaining members of Rufus, to whom she was contractually Read more...