Nedra Talley Ross, Founding Member of The Ronettes, Dies at 80

Nedra Talley Ross, founding member of the legendary '60s girl group The Ronettes, has died at age 80. She was the last surviving member of the "Be My Baby" trio.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 27, 2026, 11:20 AM EDT

Source: People

The Passing of a Legend

Nedra Talley Ross’ daughter, Nedra K. Ross, confirmed the news on social media, stating that her mother passed away at approximately 8:30 a.m. "She was safe in her own bed at home with her family close, knowing she was loved," her daughter wrote. The official Ronettes social media accounts also paid tribute, calling her "a light to those who knew and loved her" and noting that her "voice, style, and spirit helped define a sound that would change music."

Defining the Girl Group Era

Alongside her cousins Ronnie Spector and Estelle Bennett, Talley Ross formed The Ronettes as teenagers in New York City. They rose to fame after being discovered at the Peppermint Lounge and later signing with Phil Spector. The group became synonymous with hits like "Be My Baby," "Walking in the Rain," and "Baby, I Love You." Their look tight skirts and towering beehives was a deliberate departure from the gowns worn by contemporaries like The Supremes. "We wanted to be different," Ronnie Spector once recalled, emphasizing their desire for a look that allowed them to dance.

A Career of Highs

The Ronettes reached the pinnacle of 1960s pop stardom, notably joining The Beatles on their final world tour in 1966. Though the group’s studio output was limited to a single album, their influence on rock and roll was massive. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007, a long-overdue recognition of their contribution to the industry. Following the group's final live performance in 1966, Nedra pivoted to contemporary Christian music, releasing her solo album Full Circle in 1978.