Minnie Riperton is one of the all time raw vocal talents, with a range of over 5 octaves. She moved her way up the industry, starting off doing background vocals for Etta James, and other established artists. She achieved much success as a solo artist, but her contributions went way beyond music. After being diagnosed with breast cancer, and given less than a year to live, Minnie continued to record and tour, eventually becoming a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society. As one of the first celebrities to go public with the disease, she was given the Society’s Courage Award presented to her at the White House by then-President Jimmy Carter. She died at the age of 31, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and music.