Betty Wright began her music career at the incredibly young age of two, performing with her family's gospel group, the Echoes of Joy.1 Her powerful voice and natural talent were evident from the start. At just 11 years old, she signed with Deep City Records in Miami, launching her professional career.2

Wright released her debut album, "My First Time Around," at the age of 14 in 1968.1 The album showcased her soulful vocals and promising abilities as a young artist. Over the next few years, Wright continued to hone her skills and grow as a performer. She released a string of singles that gained traction on the R&B charts, steadily building her reputation in the soul music scene.2

During this early period of her career, Wright demonstrated her giftedness as a singer and her drive to succeed in the music industry. Starting to perform as a toddler and signing a record deal before she was even a teenager set the stage for Wright to become a major force in R&B and soul. Her early albums and singles laid the groundwork for the breakthrough success she would soon achieve.12

Betty Wright's breakthrough hit "Clean Up Woman" was released in 1971 when she was just 17 years old.1 The song, written by Clarence Reid and Willie Clarke, reached number two on the R&B charts where it stayed for eight weeks, and crossed over to the pop charts, peaking at number six on the Billboard Hot 100.1 "Clean Up Woman" eventually sold over 1 million copies and was certified gold, cementing Wright's status as a rising star in soul and R&B music.1 The song's success was driven by its funky guitar riff, bubbling bass line, and Wright's powerful, soulful vocals.2 "Clean Up Woman" has endured as a classic and remains Wright's most well-known hit.21

Betty Wright faced both joys and challenges in her personal life. She was married three times, first to Jerome McCray in 1985.1 Her second marriage was to Jamaican musician Noel "King Sporty" Williams, known for co-writing the Bob Marley song "Buffalo Soldier."2 Williams and Wright collaborated musically and were married from 1985 until his death in 2015.2

One of the most devastating events in Wright's life was the loss of her 21-year-old son, Patrick Parker Jr., in 2005.1 Parker was shot and killed on Christmas Day in a senseless act of violence.3 Wright channeled her grief into her music, writing and recording songs that reflected on the tragedy and the societal issues that contributed to it.3

Despite these personal challenges, Wright remained resilient and continued to make music and support other artists. Her strength and determination in the face of adversity served as an inspiration to many.13 While she experienced great loss, Wright also found love and partnership in her marriages, particularly her union with Noel "King Sporty" Williams, which lasted 30 years until his passing.2 Through the ups and downs of her personal journey, Betty Wright's indomitable spirit shone through in her life and her music.123