Labelle singer Sarah Dash has died. 

The vocalist, who served as a founding member of the R&B girl group, passed away at the age of 76. A cause of death for the New Jersey native has yet to be confirmed. 

Dash gave her final performance on Saturday, September 18, when she joined her former group’s lead vocalist Patti LaBelle at the latter’s concert in New Jersey.

In a tribute on social media, LaBelle called Dash “an awesomely talented, beautiful, and loving soul who blessed my life and the lives of so many others in more ways than I can say.

“I could always count on her to have my back! That’s who Sarah was… a loyal friend and a voice for those who didn’t have one. 

“She was a true giver… always serving, always sharing her talent and her time.

“I am heart broken, as I know all of her loved ones and fans are. But, I know that Sarah’s spirit and all that she has given to the world live on! And I pray that her precious memory brings us peace and comfort. 

“Rest in power my dear sister. I love you always.”

Further tributes poured in from the likes of Nile Rodgers, who penned: “I just got home and heard my long time friend @sarahdash has passed away. 

“I used to sneak into the rehearsal studio back in the day to listen to #labelle tear it up. #ripsarahdash.”

And disco icon Gloria Gaynor added: “I’m saddened to hear of the passing of my peer and fellow New Jerseyan, @SarahDash. We have lost yet another great talent. 

“My heartfelt condolences to her family, friends & fans.”

Dash performed with Labelle for the duration of their career, from 1962-1976, and again during their 2005-2009 reunion. 

In addition to scoring hits like I Sold My Heart to the Junkman, You’ll Never Walk Alone and the massive Lady Marmalade, Dash released four studio albums between 1978-1988. 

She went on to work as a session and touring musician for big-name acts including The Rolling Stones and Keith Richards.