Teena Marie, born Mary Christine Brockert, was an American singer-songwriter and producer, renowned for her distinctive R&B and soul style. Emerging in the late 1970s as a protégée of funk legend Rick James, she played a significant role in expanding the presence of white artists in these traditionally black genres. Her powerful vocals and rich instrumentation are evident in influential works such as "Square Biz" and "Lovergirl". Marie's 1981 album "It Must Be Magic" is noted not only for its music, but also for its role in a legal case that led to the creation of the "Brockert Initiative", protecting artists from overly restrictive record contracts.