Zulema
Zulema Cusseaux (January 3, 1947 – September 30, 2013) was an American soul, R&B, and disco singer-songwriter born in Tampa, Florida. She gained recognition for her powerful vocals, self-penned songs, and production work during the 1970s music scene.
Zulema started singing locally with school friend Brenda Hilliard in groups like The 5 Crystals. They later formed The Lovelles with Albert Bailey, which evolved into Faith, Hope & Charity after signing with Maxwell Records under producer Van McCoy. Their 1970 hit "So Much Love" reached #15 on the R&B chart and #60 on the pop chart.
Leaving the group in 1971, Zulema launched her solo career on Sussex Records with her self-titled debut album in 1972, featuring tracks like "American Fruit, African Roots." She followed with Ms. Z. (1973), including the single "Telling the World Good-Bye" and the poignant "This Child of Mine," an anthem for single mothers.
Signing with RCA Victor, she released three albums: another Zulema (1975) with hit "Wanna Be Where You Are," R.S.V.P. (1975), and Suddenly There Was You (1976). Later, on London/Lejoint, Z-licious (1978) produced R&B hits "Change" and "I'm Not Dreaming." She also backed Aretha Franklin and appeared in the Save the Children soundtrack.
In 1982, Zulema formed duo Zalmac with Al Macdowell, releasing Whatcha Gonna Do on TSOB Records. She contributed to church music as lead musician at First Baptist Church of West Tampa before her death at age 66 from a short illness.
Zulema
A2 This Child Of Mine 2:45
A3 If I Loved You 2:43
A4 Maybe I'm Amazed 2:54
A5 If This World Were Mine 3:42
B1 Don't Be Afraid 2:38
B2 Why Do I Love You 2:55
B3 American Fruit, African Roots 5:20
B4 Ain't It Sad 2:19
B5 I Remember Mama 3:16
A3 Written-By – Oscar Hammerstein II, Music By – Richard Rogers
A4 Written-By, Music By – Paul McCartney
A5 Written-By, Music By – Marvin Gaye
Written-By – Zulema Cusseaux (tracks: A1, A2, B1 to B5)
Label: Sussex – SXBS 7015
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1972
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul
Zulema's 1972 self-titled debut album on Sussex Records is a rich, powerful soul record showcasing her soaring alto voice, blending gospel roots with sophisticated 70s soul, featuring her piano playing, covers like McCartney's "Maybe I'm Amazed," and profound tracks such as "American Fruit, African Roots," establishing her as a major voice in soul music.
It balances tender ballads with rhythmic soul, rich instrumentation, and powerful vocals, echoing influences like Roberta Flack and Aretha Franklin.
Zulema plays piano throughout, with arrangements featuring layered percussion (Ralph McDonald), guitar (Cornell Dupree, John Tropea), and bass (Gordon Edwards).
Her voice delivers energy and pride, drawing from gospel traditions with sophisticated arrangements.
She penned seven of the ten tracks, exploring themes of heritage, family, and love.
The album was produced and arranged by Bert De Coteaux, with Cissy Houston on backing vocals.
It Marked a powerful solo entry after her time with Faith, Hope & Charity, and positioned her as a formidable force in 70s soul and R&B.
The album garnered enough buzz to secure Zulema an opening spot on tour with major artists like Bill Withers and the Isley Brothers.