Sugar Pie DeSanto, born Peylia Marsema Balinton (October 16, 1935 – December 20, 2024), was a pioneering American R&B singer, songwriter, and performer. Renowned for her vibrant energy, powerful voice, and electrifying stage presence, DeSanto made an indelible mark on the music industry during the 1950s and 1960s and remained a beloved figure in the blues and R&B communities throughout her life.
Early Life
Born in New York City to an African-American concert pianist mother and a Filipino father, DeSanto moved with her family to San Francisco, California, at the age of four. Standing at just 4 feet 11 inches tall, her small stature belied her larger-than-life personality and talent. As a young girl, she befriended fellow future music legend Etta James, laying the foundation for a lifelong connection in music.
Rise to Fame
DeSanto’s career took off in 1955 when she was discovered by bandleader Johnny Otis, who gave her the stage name Sugar Pie. Touring with the Johnny Otis Revue and later the James Brown Revue in 1959 and 1960, she honed her performance skills and gained widespread recognition.
Her breakthrough came in 1960 with the hit single “I Want to Know,” which reached No. 4 on Billboard’s Hot R&B chart. The song, recorded with her then-husband Pee Wee Kingsley, catapulted her to national prominence, though their marriage ended soon after.
The Chess Records Era and Notable Hits
In 1962, DeSanto signed with the legendary Chess Records in Chicago. During her time there, she recorded a string of hits, including “Soulful Dress,” “Slip-in Mules,” “Use What You Got,” and “I Don’t Wanna Fuss.” Her lively and acrobatic performances, often featuring backflips, made her a standout on stage.
DeSanto also began a fruitful songwriting partnership with Shena DeMell under the pseudonym Peylia Parham. In 1965, she collaborated with Etta James on the duets “Do I Make Myself Clear,” which became a top 10 hit, and “In the Basement” in 1966.
Despite her talents, her commercial success waned, and after her single “Go Go Power” failed to chart, she parted ways with Chess Records.
Later Years and Legacy
DeSanto continued writing and recording for various labels but found limited success. Eventually, she returned to the Bay Area and settled in Oakland, California. Despite her reduced commercial output, her contributions to music were widely recognised later in life.
- In 1999, she received a Bay Area Music Award for Best Female Blues Singer.
- The Rhythm and Blues Foundation honoured her with a Pioneer Award in 2008.
- She earned a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Goldie Awards in 2009.
- In 2020, the Arhoolie Foundation celebrated her legacy, recognising her role in preserving traditional music.
- She was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2024.
Personal Life and Tragedy
DeSanto’s personal life was marked by both joy and tragedy. After her first marriage to Pee Wee Kingsley ended, she married Jesse Earl Davis, with whom she shared 27 years of marriage until his death in 2006. Davis tragically died while attempting to extinguish a fire that destroyed their Oakland apartment.
Death
Sugar Pie DeSanto passed away on December 20, 2024, at the age of 89. Her life and career left an indelible legacy in the realms of R&B and blues, inspiring generations of performers and fans.
Remembering a Legend
Sugar Pie DeSanto was more than a singer; she was a force of nature. Her vibrant spirit, fearless artistry, and groundbreaking contributions to music will forever be celebrated as part of the rich tapestry of American musical history.
