Lioness Untamed: Artists Reflect on Amy Winehouse and Her Legacy

The singer lives on through her music and the people it touched.

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Complex Original

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Though Amy Winehouse passed away at the age of 27 on July 23, 2011, her music lives on. Her 2003 debut Frank exhibited honest songwriting and an appreciation for musical genres ranging from jazz to hip-hop. Though Frank received favorable reviews, it wasn't until its successor, 2006's Back to Black, that Winehouse exploded internationally on the strength of her breakout single, "Rehab."

Produced entirely by Salaam Remi and Mark Ronson, Back to Black had a darker, more distinct R&B sound than its predecessor, spawning additional hits like "You Know I'm No Good" and "Back to Black." The critically acclaimed album was nominated for Album of the Year at the 50th Grammy awards in 2008, winning the awards for Best Pop Vocal album, as well as Record of the Year and Song of the Year for "Rehab." Sadly, it was the last album Winehouse released while she was still alive.

In her 27 years, Winehoue touched fans and other artists alike with her music. She had a special bond with Remi and Ronson, the two men responsible for her sonic progression from Frank to Back to Black. She also shared a unique connection with rapper Nas due to their work with Remi and their shared birthday, which is today. Other artists ranging from Questlove, Pharoahe Monch, Ghostface Killah, Jay-Z and Kanye West all either sang her praises, recorded remixes to her songs or paid homage to her after her passing. 

On her 30th birthday, we reflect on Winehouse's legacy and the long-lasting impact of her music through the words of other artists who loved her. There will never be another Amy Winehouse and she will never be forgotten. RIP.

Follow Julian Kimble on Twitter.

Pharoahe Monch

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DJ Premier

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Nas

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Salaam Remi

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Mark Ronson

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Questlove

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