@2011lamb in a New York Times interview Nedra mentioning that when they became famous Estelle had a few famous "Suitors" .. George Harrison was one Mick Jagger & Johnny Mathers were the others. so from what i can gather i dont think they were serious but hey i could be wrong lol ...
Bull jive, can't no Supremes sing like this. The Supremes sings too plain. They have always sung like the way they sing today. The Ronettes sings with that echo style singing. They throw their voices. Then Diana Ross wants to start ego tripping and leave the group. They just don't know how good they look together. They look so ladylike.Alone she look like nothing. She was no way near as popular singing alone. as she was singing with the Supremes.
This is a wonderful tribute to Estelle. I was so happy to know that all of them were still alive and well. Now one of them is gone. You know how they say, "you can't have one without the other" It is gonna be so lonely without Estelle
The Ronettes bigger than the Supremes that's a no. The R's were sexy and classy but the Supremes had the glamour and that look that when you looked at them one couldn't help but fall in love with them. Mary the pretty one, Flo the sophisticated one, and Diana the glamorous one doing all she can to get your attention. The R's were strictly rock and roll girls so they would've been in the league with the Beatles, Beach Boys, etc.
To all the people who think ,that Ronnie took to much of the credit. That is what happenes in a vocal groupe. People see the lead singer and relate to it. And never really get to meet the rest of the groupe on a personal level. I think the Beatles was a rare one Take it from a first Tenor, who no one really knew my name.
I've wtached the vid of them inducted into the R&R Hall Of Fame here on youtube about three or four times and it's almost as if Ronnie is accepting the induction for herself more than for all of them as a group. All I kept hearing was me and I on her part instead of us and we. She did say we maybe once or twice, but that was it. I'm not trying to cut her or hate, just stating what I observed. I think it would've been better also if Nedra and Estelle had been up around the podium with her
@UPX4014 she did look a little bad at the HOF but I must say I met Ronnie once and she was very sweet, modest and appreciative of her fans....Lets face it Estelle and Nedra were beautiful and competent background singers(Estelle was the best dancer) but after all Ronnie was star of the show..Phil wanted Ronnie as a solo but her mom wouldnt allow it....Who knows? she might have been bigger as a solo...at least she let them speak.....A lot of front stars wouldnt....
Thanks for this tribute. Always have loved the Ronettes. Estelle was sort of an enigma to me. So sorry that she had such a hard life. She's at rest now.
She's gone??? Damn and she was so so cool. We have all swayed to this tune many times....XXXX to Estelle where ever you are and thank you for giving us smiles and moves. Matt
Estelle had been suffering from colon cancer.... The sad thing is that colon cancer is easily detected and treated. But Estelle, because of financial issues, did not have insurance or the assets to have the needed check-ups in time. She died alone in her small apartment in Englewood, New Jersey. I hate to think about it...
@PaulDePace I would like to add to this comment. Estelle never really knew what was wrong with her. No one in her circle did. She never knew that she had cancer. Ms. Bennett was paranoid about the medical profession and did not really trust doctors.
@OVtigerstripe ... Thank you for your comments on Estelle. Did you know her personally? It has always bothered me that neither Ronnie or Nedra were apparently close enough to Estelle and her needs to take charge of her issues? They both talk so glowingly of Estelle being a sweet person, etc. I guess you form an impression of the 3 women as tight. But that is not alway so. I know for a fact that Nedra and Ronnie have only talked a few times, and only out of necessity, in 40 yrs.
@PaulDePace I, also, appreciate your comments. They have been enlightening for me and to other viewers. No, unfortunately, I was not honored to know her personally. I am "two steps" removed from Ronnie. Estelle was not the easiest person to get a hold of. Now and then her phone service was cut off. This is one of the reasons why Ronnie asked K. D. to go to Estelle's apt. and check up on her. Neither Ronnie or Nedra, as you may well know, lived close to Estelle.
@OVtigerstripe ...Thanks for your further comments... Yeah, I guess I look at the situation with Estelle and her issues and probably put too much on Ronnie and Nedra. Very sad about Estelle. I like to think the best of all the girls, but I chatted on-line with a "roadie" who offered up a lot of details I knew were true, but few knew. So I felt he was valid. He intimated that Estelle had a drug problem late with the Ronettes? Anyway, sad to see her spiral down throughout her life.
@PaulDePace they once were. I am aware of some of the issues between them, as there is more than one, that has caused this chasm between them. They have a lot to do with jealousies, resentments of several types. We have tried to help them resolve them but, I guess they haven't finished slugging it out yet. If I painted a picture of them being close it was always within the context of them as a group in the 60's. Ronnie and Nedra are also on opposite ends of the "god" scale as well which
@PaulDePace of her missing some performances. It was a shame what happened to her.....the depression, the anorexia, etc. Do know this Paul, that even though she had her problems, she was a pretty happy person. She would often times, go out by herself, going to Manhattan and walking the streets by herself. It was here that she was happiest. She liked mingling with people....the bright lights.....the excitement of the nightlife there. She died happy.....and for me, that's good to know.
@OVtigerstripe Ms. Estelle Bennett, like so many talented and sensitive souls, was not meant for this course and vulgar world, filled with vipers and bloodsuckers who prey on the artistic efforts of others. What a classy, beautiful, and gentle person who deserved much better than what she received. She made the world a more beautiful place , which can never be taken away from her. Interestingly, you can her background vocals with Ronnie and Nedra on Jimi Hendrix's 1970 Earth Blues. Love her!
@drjimiboy69 Thank you for your comments. Yes, Estelle was a "beautiful" woman on the inside....very much so. I have learned that she was thoughtful, kind, loving and demure. Yes, you are right about them working on J. Hendrix's last album. They had made his acquaintance years before when he was still an unknown, if you weren't aware. You probably already knew. I do believe though, if Ronnie is telling the truth, that Nedra was in either Maryland or Virginia at the time.
@PaulDePace For what it's worth: on the BBC's 'History of Rock', Nedra stated that, "We were very fortunate...." in not getting involved with drugs. I truly hope that this is true - not that it would change my feelings for Estelle.
@PaulDePace They both had, or eventually had, families of their own along with careers. There is not much one can do for a person stricken with schizophrenia. You can not be their and hold their hand unless you are paid to be there and take care of them. I have also wondered why they did not keep closer tabs on Estelle. Then I realized that I haven't had to deal with it all these years. I know one person that suffers from schizophrenia here where I live. There is a marked difference
@PaulDePace between the "Tommy" that's taking his medications and the "Tommy" that is not. I always wanted to think of Estelle in terms of her beautiful personality. She was very kind, thoughtful, loving and gentle. Estelle was an ANGEL. Then again, I must remember that everyone had their defects of character. I really can not answer for Nedra and Ronnie because I have never asked either one of them about these matters personally. Yes, it is true that Ronnie and Nedra are not as tight as
@PaulDePace didn't/doesn't help things between them. They just have grown up to be two different people. I am very sure that if Ronnie called out for help, Nedra would answer the call. You can love someone but all the while, keep their healthy distance. Uh, drug problem? The "drug" or "drugs" he may have been refering to I believe were prescribed meds. Schizophrenia begins 99% of the time strikes before one turns their second decade. I would bet that her mental problems were the cause
@coolsweetgroovy Oh, one more thing. If you still have trouble telling them apart, if you see them in a color pic, Estelle's skin is a little darker than Ronnie's. .....looks like your mom? Way cool!
@OVtigerstripe Thanks you Yes my mom does lookalot like Nedra and on something a little unrelated my sister's mother in law who's half Japanese lookslike Ronnie
A wonderful tribute to a classy lady. Beautiful and talented, she captured the hearts of so many of us back in the '60s. Rest in peace sweet Estelle and know that your music and your memory will live on forever.
I'm a big fan of The Ronnettes and I reconzie Nedra in the pictures, but can someone tell me which is Ronnie and which is Estelle? because they look identical
@coolsweetgroovy there are differences in many of their facial features but, Estelle's chin, for instance is more rounded and Ronnie's is a little more narrow. In the fourth pic, Estelle is on the right; same with the third pic. When you view a number of pix of The Ronettes, you'll quickly learn the difference between the two. When you see pix of the three of them together standing on level ground, Estelle is two or three inches taller than Ronnie.
What a conflict. Which of these three queens is the most breathtaking. It's a three way tie for first. Talent, beauty, attitude, class, and style. Time passes but your moment in history and in our hearts never will. A little before my time, but always on time. Making it a little less painful to be a human being. You will never leave us. If we could only have lessened your suffering as you have done for us. Bless you always.
I didn't know Estelle had passed! I'm so sorry! Her fans would have helped her out if she needed them, had they known-..look at how much joy she brought for all of us w/ the Ronettes! RIP Estelle and thank you for all of those beautiful moments you 3 gave when you were here, young, and beautiful. So sad! I hope you're somewhere reading the comments from those of us who loved you guys. I will never forget you all.
If possible, was Ms. Estelle actually more beautiful than Ronnie? Under better circumstances these young women would have reaped the financial and creative rewards that their work, talent, and personality were worthy of. Music capitalism tends to exploit and ruin the beauty it promotes, leaving damaged artists in it's path. Regardless, the Ronettes helped make the world a more beautiful place and there is no better legacy than this. Estelle Benett, you are loved and will be loved.
@drjimiboy69 Estelle WAS so beautiful!!!! I watch all of these old videos and its like, damn, one night its Nedra, another its Ronnie, and yet Estelle was always there. I swear to God, the Ronettes, for all of their glory, are still the most underrated of the sixties girl groups. Had they recorded on Motown (and with Phil Spector, of course), they would have been bigger than the Supremes.
@LesbianVampireLover Strong point re. Motown vs. Phil Spector as producer. While Berry Gordy would exploit artists financially too, he wasn't driven by a personality disorder and bipolar disorder to purposely ruin artist's lives and careers, including his exquisite wife, like Phil Spector. You're on the money. IMO, RS and the Ronettes best the Supremes for singing ability, personality, flat out feminine beauty and raw sexuality, while being classy at the same time. It hurts
@OVtigerstripe Hi Nancy! A correction. Toyin was born in Sep(?) of '72. She was born not long before Ronnie came back to N. Y. City temporarily during her divorce.
@OVtigerstripe Oh, okay, thanks for letting me know the correct time frame. I was off a little.....just trying to guess by their clothes! Wow, Estelle is lovely in that very rare pic. Do you think she was "sick" at that time? What a shame and tragedy. Wow, '76 or '77, huh? Too bad Berry Gordy or some equally important record producer didn't snatch Estelle up and give her a 'come-back' before too much time passed. She could've been a fabulous disco star with the right songs. SIGH...
from all accounts I've heard estelle's, mind had always been delicate.and only got worse with time. after the group broke up their was nothing to stop a rapid slid for the worse. you wonder if everything was done for her that could be. you'd think family would have had her someplace where care could have been given if she was that bad off.
just finding out estelle died. so sad, the ronnettes were the greatest group of all time, the beatles should have been opening for them.thanks for the respectful video.
@SandySummers I think that she is the prettiest as well but, I have actually read that, many of the opinions of her contemporaries state that she was the prettiest Ronette. Of course, that is really hard to say. I mean, beauty really is a subjective thing anyway.
i must say estelles daughter is very pretty,but estelle was so beautiful and 3xotic looking when she was with the ronnettes,some say she was the priettiest ronette.they were allnice looking.god blessyour soul Estelle.love Desiree
@barthumcobb, really? That's good to know. Were you able to attend the funeral service? I bet it was really packed. I hope somehow after her passing, she was able to feel all the love from the people and to know that they really cared.
@jennifersenn The funeral was a private affair. The event(can't remember what it's called) after the funeral was open to the public. I believe that the wake, or something similar to it, was also open to the public(don't quote me). I am quite sure that she was able to know somehow that there were thousands mourning for her. I would bet anything that she was/is well aware. If you believe in a Creator, then do as I did. Ask G_d to pass along a little message from you to Estelle.
@jennifersenn If you ever travel to New York City, go to Washington Heights were the three of them grew up, and there you'll find Estelle is still there, waiting for Veronica and Nedra. Go two blocks north of the street that Ronnie and Estelle grew up on(151st St, between Amsterdam and Broadway) to 153rd St. There you will find where Estelle is resting....Trinity Church Cemetary. You should go sometime. When I visit N.Y. City again some day, I'll make it a point to stop by and give her a rose.
@OVtigerstripe I have never been to the USA but I still hope one day to go. It's a long and expensive journey from here, though. I shall certainly make the pilgrimage to her home and to her grave. God bless her beautiful soul.
@ronetteloverz I agree. They have always been my fav girl group. I never could understand why people loved The Supremes so much for. Their fans say that The Supremes are number one because of their number 1's. Well, The Ronettes may not have all of the chart toppers but, it sure takes a lot more than mere numbers on a chart to make you "#1". The Ronettes just have this "mystique" about them that made these three wonderful women the all-time greatest!!!
I got a tear watching this. Many (young) people don't know that The Ronettes were THE ORIGINAL 'bad girls.' Before everyone - they were the 1st. I read about her death & mental illness it really hit me. This was the woman all the Beatles, the Stones wanted. She was really the 'brains' of the group - their look. It's nice she got to take in applause @ the R&R Hall of Fame before she passed. My deepest sympathy to her family. Thanks you've left us who LOVE R&R with wonderful memories. RIP.
By all accounts, Estelle was a sweetheart. Valedictorian of her high school class, quiet, she loved being a Ronette. Trained in clothing design, she chose all the Ronettes' stage clothes. Men, Beatles included, saw her as mysterious. But Estelle was just shy and quiet by nature! She was devastated when her life as a Ronette ended, and was never the same. Estelle struggled with a host of serious emotional and physical challenges throughout her life, passing away from cancer on Feb 11.
I didn't know of any of the issues you have pointed out in you posts here! When did all of this come to light, her circumstances, health and financial? Didn't anyone in her family know? Seems unusual.
@ScriptWorker It was Nedra and Toyin who spilled most of the beans concerning her mental and physical state. Really, most of all this came to light immediately following her death. Yes, everyone in her family including her friends knew all about this. What Estelle was going through, was purposefully kept under wraps since the early 70's. Ronnie, in her autobiography, revealed a small insight into what was going on with Estelle. Estelle is talked about very little in Ronnie's book.
I am 66 years young, but this tribute makes my heart sing! Estelle, you were part of the greatest part of rock and roll, as I was back in the 1950s. Thank you for your love!
It is so ironic to see them so happy and singing and to know what was really happening later on. It leaves me feeling very melonchaly. Estelle, you will be missed. I wish you could've kept the smile that you had when you were sitting next to John Lennon forever. Xoxo
The time and effort you put into this tribute...well, everyone on here has said it well...this is one of the best Ronettes' videos on YouTube.
I think I can say for a number of us on here, that if I had actually known the extent of Estelle's illness, how she was living, how she was alone and, subsequently, the way she died. I would have jumped on the first plane and just flown to New Jersey and knocked on her door and begged her to let me help her financially.
@PaulDePace Well, I think that you can speak for A LOT of people, not just her fans. I would have done the same. Her life was kind of kept a mystery on purpose. We all would have liked to have helped her but, the fact of the matter was, no one could have really helped her, I mean, not even her mother, her boyfriend of 15 years, Nedra.....nobody really could......it's very, very sad but true. It was meant to happen this way. I am not sure if you are aware of the circumstances that she was
@OVtigerstripe living under. Poor Estelle struggled so long and so hard just to stay on this side of sanity. You see, she suffered from, among other things, schizophrenia. She probably did not do a good job taking her medications regularly. We are just fortunate enough to have had her for as long as we did.
@OVtigerstripe living under. Poor Estelle struggled so long and so hard just to stay on this side of sanity. You see, she suffered from, among other things, schizophrenia. She probably did not do a good job taking her medications regularly. We are just fortunate enough to have had her for as long as we did
My favourite recording of all time. Not ashamed to say I got a bit misty eyed watching this ....with pix of Estelle I'd never seen before. Thank you for posting such a fab tribute. R.I.P. Estelle.
Does anyone how serious her relationship was with George Harrison? Was it based on friendship or did it turn serious? Not much info on the two.
2011lamb 3 weeks ago
@2011lamb in a New York Times interview Nedra mentioning that when they became famous Estelle had a few famous "Suitors" .. George Harrison was one Mick Jagger & Johnny Mathers were the others. so from what i can gather i dont think they were serious but hey i could be wrong lol ...
Kehua247 2 weeks ago
Bull jive, can't no Supremes sing like this. The Supremes sings too plain. They have always sung like the way they sing today. The Ronettes sings with that echo style singing. They throw their voices. Then Diana Ross wants to start ego tripping and leave the group. They just don't know how good they look together. They look so ladylike.Alone she look like nothing. She was no way near as popular singing alone. as she was singing with the Supremes.
The Ronetters left nobody behind
bigtimer1254 1 month ago
This is a wonderful tribute to Estelle. I was so happy to know that all of them were still alive and well. Now one of them is gone. You know how they say, "you can't have one without the other" It is gonna be so lonely without Estelle
bigtimer1254 1 month ago
The 60's had the finest looking ladies...love the hair and the fashion.
SPOOKSTR 2 months ago
Thanks for making me love angelic voices of the Ronettes
billeybop 2 months ago
The Ronettes bigger than the Supremes that's a no. The R's were sexy and classy but the Supremes had the glamour and that look that when you looked at them one couldn't help but fall in love with them. Mary the pretty one, Flo the sophisticated one, and Diana the glamorous one doing all she can to get your attention. The R's were strictly rock and roll girls so they would've been in the league with the Beatles, Beach Boys, etc.
Vincent50 2 months ago
she had such a lovely smile. she's made an impression on me, not sure why.
TheBaronsamedi88 3 months ago
What a wonderful tribute! Great work on zooming in on Estelle. I hope that her family has seen this!
LesbianVampireLover 3 months ago
To all the people who think ,that Ronnie took to much of the credit. That is what happenes in a vocal groupe. People see the lead singer and relate to it. And never really get to meet the rest of the groupe on a personal level. I think the Beatles was a rare one Take it from a first Tenor, who no one really knew my name.
gimbadeebum 3 months ago
instead of being left standing behind her. That's the way most groups accept awards....or so I thought.
UPX4014 3 months ago
I've wtached the vid of them inducted into the R&R Hall Of Fame here on youtube about three or four times and it's almost as if Ronnie is accepting the induction for herself more than for all of them as a group. All I kept hearing was me and I on her part instead of us and we. She did say we maybe once or twice, but that was it. I'm not trying to cut her or hate, just stating what I observed. I think it would've been better also if Nedra and Estelle had been up around the podium with her
UPX4014 3 months ago
@UPX4014 she did look a little bad at the HOF but I must say I met Ronnie once and she was very sweet, modest and appreciative of her fans....Lets face it Estelle and Nedra were beautiful and competent background singers(Estelle was the best dancer) but after all Ronnie was star of the show..Phil wanted Ronnie as a solo but her mom wouldnt allow it....Who knows? she might have been bigger as a solo...at least she let them speak.....A lot of front stars wouldnt....
decemberschild1217 3 months ago
Thanks for this tribute. Always have loved the Ronettes. Estelle was sort of an enigma to me. So sorry that she had such a hard life. She's at rest now.
thatsmisterrobert2u 4 months ago
She had something special about her. Very pretty lady.
TheBaronsamedi88 5 months ago
reading all of these comments and watching all the early videos of estelle it shows that we will always love and will be missed
ckmbassface 7 months ago
really nice vid. estelles daughter is beautiful. ronnie is a douche.
finalsolution14 7 months ago
I was just a little tyke when they were big....records all over our living room. Thanks for posting. God rest her soul. Their music lives on forever.
11NewAuthor2 8 months ago
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11NewAuthor2 8 months ago
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Best girl group ever!!!
beatlejim64 9 months ago
She's gone??? Damn and she was so so cool. We have all swayed to this tune many times....XXXX to Estelle where ever you are and thank you for giving us smiles and moves. Matt
pharaohmatt 9 months ago
she was a beautiful Angel,
mizzfoxy9 10 months ago 3
ALWAYS IN OUR HEARTS DEAR ESTELLE,YOU WONT BE FORGOTTEN.NEVER,AS LONG AS MUSIC LIVES.YOU AND THE RONETTES HAVE GIVEN US SO VERY MUCH.
mizzfoxy9 10 months ago
This is going to sound reallry weird but my mom thinks that Ronnie Spector lookslike a younger version of Roseanne Barr
coolsweetgroovy 11 months ago
Estelle had been suffering from colon cancer.... The sad thing is that colon cancer is easily detected and treated. But Estelle, because of financial issues, did not have insurance or the assets to have the needed check-ups in time. She died alone in her small apartment in Englewood, New Jersey. I hate to think about it...
PaulDePace 11 months ago
@PaulDePace I would like to add to this comment. Estelle never really knew what was wrong with her. No one in her circle did. She never knew that she had cancer. Ms. Bennett was paranoid about the medical profession and did not really trust doctors.
OVtigerstripe 8 months ago
@OVtigerstripe ... Thank you for your comments on Estelle. Did you know her personally? It has always bothered me that neither Ronnie or Nedra were apparently close enough to Estelle and her needs to take charge of her issues? They both talk so glowingly of Estelle being a sweet person, etc. I guess you form an impression of the 3 women as tight. But that is not alway so. I know for a fact that Nedra and Ronnie have only talked a few times, and only out of necessity, in 40 yrs.
PaulDePace 8 months ago
@PaulDePace I, also, appreciate your comments. They have been enlightening for me and to other viewers. No, unfortunately, I was not honored to know her personally. I am "two steps" removed from Ronnie. Estelle was not the easiest person to get a hold of. Now and then her phone service was cut off. This is one of the reasons why Ronnie asked K. D. to go to Estelle's apt. and check up on her. Neither Ronnie or Nedra, as you may well know, lived close to Estelle.
OVtigerstripe 8 months ago
@OVtigerstripe ...Thanks for your further comments... Yeah, I guess I look at the situation with Estelle and her issues and probably put too much on Ronnie and Nedra. Very sad about Estelle. I like to think the best of all the girls, but I chatted on-line with a "roadie" who offered up a lot of details I knew were true, but few knew. So I felt he was valid. He intimated that Estelle had a drug problem late with the Ronettes? Anyway, sad to see her spiral down throughout her life.
PaulDePace 8 months ago
@PaulDePace they once were. I am aware of some of the issues between them, as there is more than one, that has caused this chasm between them. They have a lot to do with jealousies, resentments of several types. We have tried to help them resolve them but, I guess they haven't finished slugging it out yet. If I painted a picture of them being close it was always within the context of them as a group in the 60's. Ronnie and Nedra are also on opposite ends of the "god" scale as well which
OVtigerstripe 8 months ago
@PaulDePace of her missing some performances. It was a shame what happened to her.....the depression, the anorexia, etc. Do know this Paul, that even though she had her problems, she was a pretty happy person. She would often times, go out by herself, going to Manhattan and walking the streets by herself. It was here that she was happiest. She liked mingling with people....the bright lights.....the excitement of the nightlife there. She died happy.....and for me, that's good to know.
OVtigerstripe 8 months ago
@OVtigerstripe Ms. Estelle Bennett, like so many talented and sensitive souls, was not meant for this course and vulgar world, filled with vipers and bloodsuckers who prey on the artistic efforts of others. What a classy, beautiful, and gentle person who deserved much better than what she received. She made the world a more beautiful place , which can never be taken away from her. Interestingly, you can her background vocals with Ronnie and Nedra on Jimi Hendrix's 1970 Earth Blues. Love her!
drjimiboy69 8 months ago
@drjimiboy69 Thank you for your comments. Yes, Estelle was a "beautiful" woman on the inside....very much so. I have learned that she was thoughtful, kind, loving and demure. Yes, you are right about them working on J. Hendrix's last album. They had made his acquaintance years before when he was still an unknown, if you weren't aware. You probably already knew. I do believe though, if Ronnie is telling the truth, that Nedra was in either Maryland or Virginia at the time.
OVtigerstripe 8 months ago
@PaulDePace For what it's worth: on the BBC's 'History of Rock', Nedra stated that, "We were very fortunate...." in not getting involved with drugs. I truly hope that this is true - not that it would change my feelings for Estelle.
promerops 7 months ago
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OVtigerstripe 8 months ago
@PaulDePace They both had, or eventually had, families of their own along with careers. There is not much one can do for a person stricken with schizophrenia. You can not be their and hold their hand unless you are paid to be there and take care of them. I have also wondered why they did not keep closer tabs on Estelle. Then I realized that I haven't had to deal with it all these years. I know one person that suffers from schizophrenia here where I live. There is a marked difference
OVtigerstripe 8 months ago
@PaulDePace between the "Tommy" that's taking his medications and the "Tommy" that is not. I always wanted to think of Estelle in terms of her beautiful personality. She was very kind, thoughtful, loving and gentle. Estelle was an ANGEL. Then again, I must remember that everyone had their defects of character. I really can not answer for Nedra and Ronnie because I have never asked either one of them about these matters personally. Yes, it is true that Ronnie and Nedra are not as tight as
OVtigerstripe 8 months ago
@PaulDePace didn't/doesn't help things between them. They just have grown up to be two different people. I am very sure that if Ronnie called out for help, Nedra would answer the call. You can love someone but all the while, keep their healthy distance. Uh, drug problem? The "drug" or "drugs" he may have been refering to I believe were prescribed meds. Schizophrenia begins 99% of the time strikes before one turns their second decade. I would bet that her mental problems were the cause
OVtigerstripe 8 months ago
Fitting tribute...always loved the Ronettes...ashame so many of these great group members feel on hard times
rbruce007 11 months ago
Nedra Talley lookslike my mom
coolsweetgroovy 11 months ago
@coolsweetgroovy Oh, one more thing. If you still have trouble telling them apart, if you see them in a color pic, Estelle's skin is a little darker than Ronnie's. .....looks like your mom? Way cool!
OVtigerstripe 11 months ago
@OVtigerstripe Thanks you Yes my mom does lookalot like Nedra and on something a little unrelated my sister's mother in law who's half Japanese lookslike Ronnie
coolsweetgroovy 11 months ago
@coolsweetgroovy Ooooh! Way cool!! Boy, isn't that someting!
OVtigerstripe 11 months ago
@OVtigerstripe yeah
coolsweetgroovy 11 months ago
Fantastic tribute,many thanks.
newcastlerabbit 11 months ago
A wonderful tribute to a classy lady. Beautiful and talented, she captured the hearts of so many of us back in the '60s. Rest in peace sweet Estelle and know that your music and your memory will live on forever.
captaintuna45 11 months ago
I'm a big fan of The Ronnettes and I reconzie Nedra in the pictures, but can someone tell me which is Ronnie and which is Estelle? because they look identical
coolsweetgroovy 11 months ago
@coolsweetgroovy there are differences in many of their facial features but, Estelle's chin, for instance is more rounded and Ronnie's is a little more narrow. In the fourth pic, Estelle is on the right; same with the third pic. When you view a number of pix of The Ronettes, you'll quickly learn the difference between the two. When you see pix of the three of them together standing on level ground, Estelle is two or three inches taller than Ronnie.
OVtigerstripe 11 months ago
@OVtigerstripe Ok Thanks
coolsweetgroovy 11 months ago
@coolsweetgroovy You are very welcome! Anytime.
OVtigerstripe 11 months ago
@OVtigerstripe cool
coolsweetgroovy 11 months ago
What a conflict. Which of these three queens is the most breathtaking. It's a three way tie for first. Talent, beauty, attitude, class, and style. Time passes but your moment in history and in our hearts never will. A little before my time, but always on time. Making it a little less painful to be a human being. You will never leave us. If we could only have lessened your suffering as you have done for us. Bless you always.
drjimiboy69 11 months ago
ALWAYS The Greatest.! RIP Estelle Bennett
sixtiesforever1966 1 year ago
it was a shame such talent thats life 4 ya hoow many greats went b4 there time ?she will always b remembered
b9449 1 year ago
I didn't know Estelle had passed! I'm so sorry! Her fans would have helped her out if she needed them, had they known-..look at how much joy she brought for all of us w/ the Ronettes! RIP Estelle and thank you for all of those beautiful moments you 3 gave when you were here, young, and beautiful. So sad! I hope you're somewhere reading the comments from those of us who loved you guys. I will never forget you all.
femmesusan1 1 year ago 2
Wonderful
silvertop28 1 year ago
@jallymatt
my pleasure.
barthumcobb 1 year ago
If possible, was Ms. Estelle actually more beautiful than Ronnie? Under better circumstances these young women would have reaped the financial and creative rewards that their work, talent, and personality were worthy of. Music capitalism tends to exploit and ruin the beauty it promotes, leaving damaged artists in it's path. Regardless, the Ronettes helped make the world a more beautiful place and there is no better legacy than this. Estelle Benett, you are loved and will be loved.
drjimiboy69 1 year ago 8
@drjimiboy69 Estelle WAS so beautiful!!!! I watch all of these old videos and its like, damn, one night its Nedra, another its Ronnie, and yet Estelle was always there. I swear to God, the Ronettes, for all of their glory, are still the most underrated of the sixties girl groups. Had they recorded on Motown (and with Phil Spector, of course), they would have been bigger than the Supremes.
LesbianVampireLover 2 months ago
@LesbianVampireLover Strong point re. Motown vs. Phil Spector as producer. While Berry Gordy would exploit artists financially too, he wasn't driven by a personality disorder and bipolar disorder to purposely ruin artist's lives and careers, including his exquisite wife, like Phil Spector. You're on the money. IMO, RS and the Ronettes best the Supremes for singing ability, personality, flat out feminine beauty and raw sexuality, while being classy at the same time. It hurts
drjimiboy69 2 months ago 2
Love This Song, May God Grant You Eternal Peace Estelle:(
Mj4Eternity58 1 year ago
we luv u estelle u will never be forgotten...u were always such a bright presence....RIP!!!!
panzerson2 1 year ago
Lovely pic @ 1:40....Estelle and her little girl, Toyin.....in the early '80's, maybe?
jennifersenn 1 year ago
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OVtigerstripe 11 months ago
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OVtigerstripe 8 months ago
@jennifersenn No. This is approximately 1976 or 1977 I believe. Toyin was born in 1971 or '72. She looks to be about 5 or 6 years old here.
OVtigerstripe 11 months ago
@OVtigerstripe Hi Nancy! A correction. Toyin was born in Sep(?) of '72. She was born not long before Ronnie came back to N. Y. City temporarily during her divorce.
OVtigerstripe 8 months ago
@OVtigerstripe Oh, okay, thanks for letting me know the correct time frame. I was off a little.....just trying to guess by their clothes! Wow, Estelle is lovely in that very rare pic. Do you think she was "sick" at that time? What a shame and tragedy. Wow, '76 or '77, huh? Too bad Berry Gordy or some equally important record producer didn't snatch Estelle up and give her a 'come-back' before too much time passed. She could've been a fabulous disco star with the right songs. SIGH...
jennifersenn 5 months ago
that iconic moment at 2;09
wakinunu 1 year ago
R.I.P Estelle!
dmattosbr 1 year ago
from all accounts I've heard estelle's, mind had always been delicate.and only got worse with time. after the group broke up their was nothing to stop a rapid slid for the worse. you wonder if everything was done for her that could be. you'd think family would have had her someplace where care could have been given if she was that bad off.
TheBabyboomkidof53 1 year ago
she did not marry me
spider15able 1 year ago
One of the greatest Girl groups of the 60'
Love them and their music. Sir David
sixtiesforever1966 1 year ago
just finding out estelle died. so sad, the ronnettes were the greatest group of all time, the beatles should have been opening for them.thanks for the respectful video.
SuperBeachbum74 1 year ago
@SuperBeachbum74 The Beatles did! In 1963. The Rolling Stones opened for The Ronettes during the '64 season.
OVtigerstripe 11 months ago
Believe it or not, TruTv (Court TV) gave a very nice mention of Estelle's passing, calling her the "prettiest" Ronette.
SandySummers 1 year ago
@SandySummers to me she was the prettiest one,very exotic.they all were pretty.Ronnie has a great personality
Desiree50 1 year ago
@SandySummers I think that she is the prettiest as well but, I have actually read that, many of the opinions of her contemporaries state that she was the prettiest Ronette. Of course, that is really hard to say. I mean, beauty really is a subjective thing anyway.
OVtigerstripe 11 months ago
Nicely done tribute. Thanks!!!
wally1435 1 year ago
Аплодисменты.Aplodismenti.. __ Аплодисменты!!!!!!!
zeleko59 1 year ago
Estelle had severe mental illness and a hard life but we all love her for the joy she still brings watching these videos.
Budma30k 1 year ago
i agree ... one of the best videos on utube.. simply outstanding!!!!! thanks.
jackrabitcafe 1 year ago
i must say estelles daughter is very pretty,but estelle was so beautiful and 3xotic looking when she was with the ronnettes,some say she was the priettiest ronette.they were allnice looking.god blessyour soul Estelle.love Desiree
Desiree50 1 year ago
Times and classic and vintage. I just love it.
david510152025303540 1 year ago
i was wonderng how did estelle die was she sick or was it sudden she was only 67?
Desiree50 1 year ago
@Desiree50
I believe she was sick...A hard life.
barthumcobb 1 year ago
@Desiree50 The official statement was that she died of untreated colon cancer.
OVtigerstripe 11 months ago
REST IN PARADISE!!!!!
guanajuato1987 1 year ago
im so happy that this was dedicated to estelle.she was so pretty,and its so sad that she left us so early,peace desiree
Desiree50 1 year ago
She was gorgeous and the music immortal. You've done a terrific job, thanks for posting this
kidcalabria 1 year ago
@kidcalabria
Thanks, it was a pleasure to make it. It actually played at her funeral service at the Apollo.
barthumcobb 1 year ago
@barthumcobb, really? That's good to know. Were you able to attend the funeral service? I bet it was really packed. I hope somehow after her passing, she was able to feel all the love from the people and to know that they really cared.
jennifersenn 1 year ago
Sadly I was unable to attend the service.
She was honored by the Rock and Roll hall of fame before she died, so that was pretty awesome.
barthumcobb 1 year ago
@jennifersenn The funeral was a private affair. The event(can't remember what it's called) after the funeral was open to the public. I believe that the wake, or something similar to it, was also open to the public(don't quote me). I am quite sure that she was able to know somehow that there were thousands mourning for her. I would bet anything that she was/is well aware. If you believe in a Creator, then do as I did. Ask G_d to pass along a little message from you to Estelle.
OVtigerstripe 11 months ago
@jennifersenn If you ever travel to New York City, go to Washington Heights were the three of them grew up, and there you'll find Estelle is still there, waiting for Veronica and Nedra. Go two blocks north of the street that Ronnie and Estelle grew up on(151st St, between Amsterdam and Broadway) to 153rd St. There you will find where Estelle is resting....Trinity Church Cemetary. You should go sometime. When I visit N.Y. City again some day, I'll make it a point to stop by and give her a rose.
OVtigerstripe 11 months ago
@OVtigerstripe I have never been to the USA but I still hope one day to go. It's a long and expensive journey from here, though. I shall certainly make the pilgrimage to her home and to her grave. God bless her beautiful soul.
promerops 9 months ago
OMG... My fav girl group of all time, thanks Ronnie, Nedra, and of course... Estelle. God bless.
sunkistdds 2 years ago
@8291963 Absolutely! The Supremes are squeakies compared to the Ronettes.
ronetteloverz 2 years ago 3
@ronetteloverz I agree. They have always been my fav girl group. I never could understand why people loved The Supremes so much for. Their fans say that The Supremes are number one because of their number 1's. Well, The Ronettes may not have all of the chart toppers but, it sure takes a lot more than mere numbers on a chart to make you "#1". The Ronettes just have this "mystique" about them that made these three wonderful women the all-time greatest!!!
OVtigerstripe 11 months ago
I got a tear watching this. Many (young) people don't know that The Ronettes were THE ORIGINAL 'bad girls.' Before everyone - they were the 1st. I read about her death & mental illness it really hit me. This was the woman all the Beatles, the Stones wanted. She was really the 'brains' of the group - their look. It's nice she got to take in applause @ the R&R Hall of Fame before she passed. My deepest sympathy to her family. Thanks you've left us who LOVE R&R with wonderful memories. RIP.
uszoninyc 2 years ago
Estelle Bennett RIP [*}
michnikuremek 2 years ago
Wow, her daughter's beautiful and looks so much like her mom. Wonder if she's in the music industry at all?
jennifersenn 2 years ago
They are all so very beautiful!!
barneypip 2 years ago
What a Beautiful video. Thank you!
Miss Estelle, You Are Missed....
motorcitymiguel 2 years ago
@motorcitymiguel are u really 47? (:
X0n3 2 years ago
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jennifersenn 2 years ago
RIP Estelle and thanks for all the happiness you gave us all. We miss you so much.
zamione 2 years ago
A truly beautiful tribute. Thank you for making it.
ronetteloverz 2 years ago
God bless you Estelle,a beautiful girl inside and out,always will be a Ronette.
settenor1963 2 years ago 3
By all accounts, Estelle was a sweetheart. Valedictorian of her high school class, quiet, she loved being a Ronette. Trained in clothing design, she chose all the Ronettes' stage clothes. Men, Beatles included, saw her as mysterious. But Estelle was just shy and quiet by nature! She was devastated when her life as a Ronette ended, and was never the same. Estelle struggled with a host of serious emotional and physical challenges throughout her life, passing away from cancer on Feb 11.
PaulDePace 2 years ago
I didn't know of any of the issues you have pointed out in you posts here! When did all of this come to light, her circumstances, health and financial? Didn't anyone in her family know? Seems unusual.
ScriptWorker 2 years ago
@ScriptWorker It was Nedra and Toyin who spilled most of the beans concerning her mental and physical state. Really, most of all this came to light immediately following her death. Yes, everyone in her family including her friends knew all about this. What Estelle was going through, was purposefully kept under wraps since the early 70's. Ronnie, in her autobiography, revealed a small insight into what was going on with Estelle. Estelle is talked about very little in Ronnie's book.
OVtigerstripe 11 months ago
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OVtigerstripe 11 months ago
God bless Estelle. Rest in peace.
alvgen 2 years ago 3
I am 66 years young, but this tribute makes my heart sing! Estelle, you were part of the greatest part of rock and roll, as I was back in the 1950s. Thank you for your love!
janicesoprano 2 years ago
It is so ironic to see them so happy and singing and to know what was really happening later on. It leaves me feeling very melonchaly. Estelle, you will be missed. I wish you could've kept the smile that you had when you were sitting next to John Lennon forever. Xoxo
Lancerboi1986 2 years ago
I don't pay much attention to the news during the summer, so I missed the news of Estelle's passing.
RIP, Estelle, my prayers are with you.
barthumcobb, Thank you for a wonderful trip down memory lane to visit the greatest girl R&R group of all time. They were the best!.
(Yes, I'm old enough to remember..).
Thank you. This is a wonderful video of Estelle, Nedra and Ronnie.
BoudiccaBlanc 2 years ago
The time and effort you put into this tribute...well, everyone on here has said it well...this is one of the best Ronettes' videos on YouTube.
I think I can say for a number of us on here, that if I had actually known the extent of Estelle's illness, how she was living, how she was alone and, subsequently, the way she died. I would have jumped on the first plane and just flown to New Jersey and knocked on her door and begged her to let me help her financially.
PaulDePace 2 years ago 11
@PaulDePace Well, I think that you can speak for A LOT of people, not just her fans. I would have done the same. Her life was kind of kept a mystery on purpose. We all would have liked to have helped her but, the fact of the matter was, no one could have really helped her, I mean, not even her mother, her boyfriend of 15 years, Nedra.....nobody really could......it's very, very sad but true. It was meant to happen this way. I am not sure if you are aware of the circumstances that she was
OVtigerstripe 11 months ago
@OVtigerstripe living under. Poor Estelle struggled so long and so hard just to stay on this side of sanity. You see, she suffered from, among other things, schizophrenia. She probably did not do a good job taking her medications regularly. We are just fortunate enough to have had her for as long as we did.
OVtigerstripe 11 months ago
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@OVtigerstripe living under. Poor Estelle struggled so long and so hard just to stay on this side of sanity. You see, she suffered from, among other things, schizophrenia. She probably did not do a good job taking her medications regularly. We are just fortunate enough to have had her for as long as we did
OVtigerstripe 11 months ago
That was brilliant. Absolutely Brilliant. I've got a lump in my throat after watching this.
1970Scotlandify 2 years ago 3
Beautiful, just beautiful! Wonderful upload!
Btw, does anyone have the solo single she released as mp3? Please pm me if you do :)
maruku86 2 years ago
Yes, It also brought tears to my eyes....
Beautiful, beautiful....
At least she is left a wonderful memory of what music was like then.....
Mosel21 2 years ago 2
My favourite recording of all time. Not ashamed to say I got a bit misty eyed watching this ....with pix of Estelle I'd never seen before. Thank you for posting such a fab tribute. R.I.P. Estelle.
blueukeangel17 2 years ago 2
this was very well made thank you.the nik1048
TheNik1948 2 years ago 2
Very well put together tribute!! Rest in peace Estelle!! God bless you!!! Thanks for posting this!!
JSG1951 2 years ago 2
That was a wonderful tribute. Thank you!
love4triumph 2 years ago 3