In Memoriam: Alice Tan Ridley
Alice Tan Ridley, known for her remarkable journey as a subway singer in New York City and as the mother of acclaimed actress Gabourey Sidibe, passed away on March 25 in New York City. She was 72 years old. The news of her death was shared by her family through an online obituary; however, the cause of death was not disclosed.
A Life Dedicated to Music
Born Alice Ann Ridley on December 21, 1952, in Lumpkin, Georgia, Ridley emerged from a musically inclined family. Her mother, Lessie Ridley, and father, Melton Lee, both played significant roles in nurturing her talent. Alice’s brother, Roger Ridley, also pursued music and gained recognition for his performances.
Ridley’s musical career as a performer began in the mid-1980s when she commenced singing in subway stations throughout New York City. Initially aimed at supplementing her income as a schoolteacher, she soon transitioned to busking full-time as her passion for music overrode her previous obligations.
Defining the Subway Experience
In a 2010 interview with “Good Morning America,” Ridley articulated her view on busking, emphasizing that subway performers should not be mistaken for beggars. “We are not homeless,” she asserted, “and we’re not under drug influence,” highlighting the dignity and artistry involved in their work. Expressing her unique connection with the subway environment, she declared, “It’s wonderful… especially down underground.”
Her artistry captured attention, earning her a cameo in the film “Heights” in 2005, where she played a subway singer—a reflection of her own experiences in the city.
Breakthrough and Legacy
In 2010, Ridley’s life took a significant turn when she auditioned for the popular television show “America’s Got Talent.” Though she was in her late 50s—a demographic typically underrepresented in such competitions—her heartfelt rendition of “At Last,” originally performed by Etta James, gained her national acclaim. Despite being eliminated in the semi-finals, her performances, including “Proud Mary” and “Midnight Train to Georgia,” left a lasting impression.
The exposure from the show allowed Ridley to embark on tours around the world but ultimately, the demands of traveling led her back to her roots in subway singing in 2014. “When I was no longer down under there, I missed it,” she shared in a 2016 interview with The New York Times.
Family and Personal Life
Alice Tan Ridley was married to Ibnou Sidibe, a cab driver, with whom she had two children, Gabourey and Ahmed, before their divorce in the early ’90s. Her daughter’s rise to fame came with the lead role in the film “Precious,” which earned Gabourey an Oscar nomination. Notably, Ridley was offered the chance to portray the character of the mother in the film but declined, feeling she could not take on that emotional role.
Ridley’s career spanned multiple domains; before finding her place in music, she worked as a nursery school teacher and later as a teacher’s aide for special needs children. Her dedication to her craft and her children led her to instill important life lessons in them, encouraging them to pursue their dreams.
Conclusion
Alice Tan Ridley’s journey from the underground music scene to televised fame illustrates the power of dedication and passion. Her contributions to music and her influence as a mother reaffirm her legacy as a cherished figure in the arts, inspiring many to follow their dreams, regardless of the obstacles faced. She leaves behind not only her music but also a message of resilience and joy.
