Vanity, Canadian-American singer-songwriter, dancer, and actress (b. 1959)

Denise Katrina Matthews, known professionally as Vanity, was a multifaceted Canadian talent who captivated audiences as a singer, songwriter, model, and actress. Born on January 4, 1959, her career defined a significant portion of the 1980s music and film landscape, marked by a bold and iconic image. Later, she underwent a profound spiritual transformation, renouncing her secular career in the 1990s to become a dedicated evangelist until her passing on February 15, 2016, at the age of 57.

The Rise of Vanity: Music and Persona

Vanity emerged as a prominent figure in the early 1980s, gaining widespread recognition for her provocative image as a sex symbol. This persona was intrinsically linked to her music career, particularly as the lead singer of the groundbreaking female trio, Vanity 6. This group, assembled and mentored by music icon Prince, was known for its edgy R&B and funk sound and its daring aesthetics. Their most iconic release was the 1982 hit song "Nasty Girl," an audacious track that achieved significant commercial success, climbing to number seven on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart and becoming a signature anthem for the group. The group's association with Prince's Minneapolis sound and his Paisley Park Productions stable further solidified their place in music history, offering a distinct blend of pop, funk, and new wave influences.

Solo Endeavors and Continued Musical Impact

Following the dissolution of Vanity 6 in 1983, Denise Matthews embarked on a solo career, signing with the legendary Motown Records label. This move allowed her to further explore her artistic vision, resulting in two distinct solo albums: Wild Animal and Skin on Skin. While her solo albums showcased her evolving sound, she also achieved success with several minor hit singles. These included "Pretty Mess" and "Mechanical Emotion" from her solo albums, and most notably, "Under the Influence" and "Undress," the latter of which was featured in the 1988 action film Action Jackson, where she also starred. These tracks reinforced her standing as a dynamic performer in the R&B and pop genres.

A Successful Acting Career

Beyond her musical accomplishments, Vanity cultivated a successful career as an actress, appearing in several memorable films that solidified her status as an 1980s entertainment icon. Her roles often leveraged her charismatic screen presence and striking looks.

A Profound Transformation and Later Life

Despite her vibrant public persona and successful career, Denise Matthews privately battled significant challenges. After years of struggling with drug abuse, which led to severe health issues, she experienced a profound spiritual awakening. In 1992, she became a born-again Christian, a pivotal moment that dramatically redirected her life's path. This spiritual conversion led her to renounce her former professional identity as Vanity and dedicate herself wholly to her faith. She committed herself to ministry, becoming an evangelist and actively serving her church community in Fremont, California. Through her testimony, she often spoke candidly about her past struggles and the transformative power of her faith, using her experiences to inspire others. Her decision to step away from the entertainment industry to pursue a life of spiritual devotion underscored the depth of her personal change.

Legacy and Passing

Denise Katrina Matthews' later years were marked by ongoing health struggles, primarily due to the lasting impact of her past drug abuse. She faced severe kidney complications, eventually succumbing to kidney failure on February 15, 2016, at the age of 57. Her passing marked the end of a life lived across two starkly different worlds: from a global sex symbol and music icon to a devoted woman of faith and evangelist. Her legacy is a testament to her undeniable talent and enduring charisma, as well as her remarkable journey of personal redemption and spiritual conviction.

Frequently Asked Questions About Denise Matthews (Vanity)

What was Vanity's real name?
Her birth name was Denise Katrina Matthews.
Who discovered Vanity?
Vanity was discovered by the iconic musician Prince, who became her mentor and assembled the group Vanity 6.
What was Vanity 6's biggest hit?
Vanity 6 is best known for their 1982 hit song "Nasty Girl," which achieved significant success on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart.
What notable films did Vanity star in?
Vanity had a successful acting career, with prominent roles in films such as the cult classic The Last Dragon (1985), 52 Pick-Up (1986), and Action Jackson (1988).
When did Denise Matthews become an evangelist?
She became a born-again Christian and renounced her career as Vanity in 1992, subsequently devoting herself to evangelism and church ministry.
What was the cause of Vanity's death?
Denise Matthews passed away on February 15, 2016, at the age of 57, due to kidney failure, stemming from health complications linked to her past drug abuse.