Nedra Talley, the last surviving member of the Ronettes, died Sunday at her home. She was 80. Her daughter announced the death on Facebook without listing a cause.
Talley sang backup in the girl group that defined early-'60s pop, backing Ronnie Spector's lead vocals on hits like "Be My Baby" and "Walking in the Rain." The trio, which also included Estelle Bennett, became one of Phil Spector's most celebrated acts, their voices layered into his signature "Wall of Sound" production. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007.
The group splintered in the mid-'60s as members pursued other lives. Talley married Scott Ross in 1967 and took his name, eventually becoming known professionally as Nedra Tally-Ross. Estelle Bennett died in 2009. Ronnie Spector, the group's leader and most recognizable voice, died in 2022.
Talley lived long enough to see renewed interest in the Ronettes' legacy. She appeared at Rock and Roll Hall of Fame events and gave occasional interviews reflecting on the group's brief but luminous run. She represented a chapter of pop history when girl groups dominated radio and the studio dominated everything.