Patti LaBelle, Auntie Patti, Ms. LaBelle, Lady Marmalade…whatever you want to call her, Patti’s name is synonymous with good music and big smiles. Born Patricia Louise Holte-Edwards in Philadelphia on May 24, 1944, her career spans over a half of century with awards, critical acclaim and a string of hits.
Recently, BlackDoctor.org sat down with Ms. Patti as she turns 71 years old and found out that she’s not slowing down anytime soon.
BDO: Your birthday is coming up, what are your plans?
Patti: You know it just feels good to do nothing sometimes. By doing so much (shows, appearances, etc), I’m looking forward to just relaxing and truly enjoy doing nothing.
BDO: How is that you have a knack for making everyone feel like family?
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Patti: Thank you. It was really my dad. I grew up in a household where my mom and dad made everyone feel welcome. My dad was real laid back and it’s just that sense of family that I guess was instilled in me. That was the foundation that was laid for me and I’m just happy I received it.
Patti’s mom lost her legs because of diabetes and her grandmother and aunt both passed away of…
…complications from the disease. Patti was also diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 1994.
BDO: How is it dealing with diabetes? What is the biggest hurdle you have to get over?
Patti: I was able to get off some medications due me changing my diet and lifestyle, but its still something that I think about each and every day. I believe in everything in moderation, so now I just have one chicken leg instead of having three or four pieces. That’s my little guilty pleasure that I give to myself
BDO: If you could tell three things to the next generation of young black women what would it be?
Patti: Class goes a long way. We need to get back to that. Get back to women having a certain level of class about them. We don’t see that much nowadays like we used to. I miss that about this generation of young women.
BDO: What’s next for Patti?
Patti: From events with Dancing With the Stars, concerts, tours, I’m definitely keeping busy. God has blessed me with the opportunity to share with the world and I love it. I’m proud of my son and what he has become and just thankful for years past and whatever God has planned for me.
(*Raises a glass*) Here’s to you Patti. Wishing you many, many more birthdays.
