The Pointer Sisters

Oakland siblings Anita, Bonnie, June, and Ruth Pointer had an innate knowledge of each other’s singing styles. That savvy, combined with their versatility, gospel roots, and strong voices, led to The Pointer Sisters being one of R&B’s leading vocal groups of the ’70s and ’80s. Formed in the late ’60s by Bonnie and June, with Anita following shortly after, they signed to Atlantic Records in 1971; Ruth joined them the following year. Their first hit single was “Yes We Can Can,” a spirited take on an Allen Toussaint composition that showed off their moxie and harmonizing. They continued releasing diverse albums throughout the ’70s; after Bonnie left to pursue a solo career, they hit big with a smoldering version of Bruce Springsteen’s “Fire.” In 1984 they ventured into dance pop with Break Out, and four of its singles reached the Top 10. Anita, Bonnie, and June have since passed away, but Ruth continues to tour as The Pointer Sisters with her daughter and granddaughter.