Alice Tan Ridley was not a household name, but she resonated deeply with those who caught her stirring performances in New York City subway stations or during her brief but impactful time on NBC's America's Got Talent (AGT). She entered the public eye at the age of 58 and captivated the hearts of millions with her soulful voice and inspiring story. Ridley passed away on March 25, 2025, at the age of 72, reminding us all of the beauty of late-blooming talent and the indomitable spirit of following one's dreams no matter the age.
Ridley's journey into the spotlight is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of pursuing one's passions. Having spent decades performing in the less glamorous environment of subway stations, her audition for America's Got Talent was remarkably bittersweet. Her life story is a reminder that talent can flourish in the unlikeliest places, and her pursuit to achieve her dreams as a singer defines a narrative that many can relate to.
Alice Tan Ridley was born in Lumpkin, Georgia, in 1952 and later moved to New York City. Before the world saw her on national television, she nurtured her passion for singing in a city that provides limitless opportunities for artists. In addition to her subway performances, Ridley entertained audiences at renowned venues like Harlem's Cotton Club, showcasing her risqué talent and unfaltering spirit.
Subway Performances:
In 2010, at the age of 58, Ridley auditioned for America's Got Talent. Her performance of Etta James’ classic "At Last" left the judges awestruck. Renowned judge Sharon Osbourne famously remarked, "Alice, millions of people must’ve gone back and forth on that subway over the 20 years. How come nobody signed you?" This poignant moment highlighted not just Ridley’s powerful voice but also her determination to rise above her circumstances.
Her AGT Journey:
In her post-AGT life, Ridley released her debut album, Never Lost My Way, in 2016 at age 63. The album encapsulated her journey through life's trials, celebrating resilience and emotional depth through music. She collaborated with various artists and continued performing, encouraging others to chase their passions regardless of age or circumstance.
Impact on Others:
Ridley was a dedicated mother, and her family played a significant role in her life. She is perhaps best known as the mother of Gabourey Sidibe, who gained fame for her role in the critically acclaimed film Precious. Gabourey's success painted an additional layer of depth to Ridley's narrative; as a family that pursued artistic dreams, they created a legacy for women in the arts.
Gabourey Sidibe:
Ridley's passing marks a notable end to an inspiring chapter in the quest for artistic expression. Her voice lives on in the hearts of those that witnessed her performances.
As we reflect on Ridley's life, it's crucial to honor the fundamental ethos she embodied: pursue your dreams unabashedly. Her tenacity serves as a beacon for aspiring artists everywhere, proof that it's never too late to ignite that flame within, regardless of age or background.
Alice Tan Ridley died on March 25, 2025, at the age of 72.
Ridley gained national recognition as a contestant on Season 5 of America's Got Talent in 2010, where she delivered a powerful rendition of "At Last."
Ridley inspired many by demonstrating that it's possible to pursue dreams regardless of age, sharing her talent through subway performances and beyond, becoming a beacon of perseverance.
After AGT, Ridley released her debut album Never Lost My Way in 2016 and continued to perform, uplifting countless individuals with her voice and story.
Gabourey Sidibe, an Oscar-nominated actress known for her role in Precious and appearances in various television series including American Horror Story and Empire.
Ridley's story encourages us to embrace our passions resolutely and demonstrate that it is never too late to pursue artistry. Her life serves as a profound reminder of the impact a single voice can have in inspiring a community and encouraging individuals to realize their dreams.