Minnie Riperton (Nov. 8, 1947 – July 12, 1979) was an American singer-songwriter best known for her 1975 single "Lovin' You". She was married to songwriter & music producer Richard Rudolph from 1972 until her death in the summer of 1979. They had two children: music engineer Marc Rudolph & actress/comedienne Maya Rudolph. She grew up on Chicago's South Side & early in her career sang backup on Chess Records sessions for Etta James, Fontella Bass, Bo Diddley, Ramsey Lewis, Chuck Berry & others.