The Life and Tragic Death of a Rising R&B Star: Yolanda "LaLa" Brown

In the mid-2000s, a powerful and soulful voice began to rise from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, capturing the attention of R&B fans across the country. That voice belonged to Yolanda Rose “LaLa” Brown, a gifted young artist whose life and career were filled with promise. Best known for her unforgettable feature on Lyfe Jennings' hit single “S.E.X.”, LaLa seemed destined for stardom. But just as her career was beginning to blossom, tragedy struck.

Born on May 20, 1986, to Maria and William Brown, LaLa grew up in a vibrant and loving household as the youngest of five siblings. Her mother, of Mexican descent, and her African American father nurtured her creative talents from a young age. By the time she was 11, LaLa was performing professionally under the stage name “Pre-mere,” showcasing her voice at weddings and local events around Milwaukee.

She attended Milwaukee High School of the Arts, where she continued to hone her craft. Despite becoming a mother at just 16 years old, giving birth to her daughter Amirah Airreal Brown, LaLa never lost sight of her dream to make it big in the music industry. Her determination and passion were evident to all who knew her.

In 2005, LaLa took a leap of faith and moved to Atlanta, Georgia, immersing herself in one of the country’s most dynamic music scenes. That bold move paid off when she was tapped by Lyfe Jennings to feature on his single “S.E.X.” The song, a powerful message about the consequences of unprotected sex, became a major hit—peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and No. 37 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2006.

LaLa’s voice and performance were unforgettable, earning her national recognition. She toured with Jennings, performing for large crowds and living out her dream. However, creative disagreements eventually led her to part ways with Jennings and return home to Milwaukee.

Back in her hometown, LaLa wasted no time. She returned to the studio to work on her debut solo album, collaborating with her producer and boyfriend, JeTannue “Kool-Aid” Clayborn, at Loud Enuff Productionz. Songs like “I’m Feeling It,” “Rescue Me,” and “Give Them What They Want” hinted at the artistic depth she was developing, with autobiographical lyrics and a unique vocal style that stood out in a crowded R&B landscape.

LaLa was on the brink of a breakout, preparing to carve her name into the music world on her own terms.

On October 19, 2007, LaLa Brown and JeTannue Clayborn were tragically murdered at their recording studio in Milwaukee. Their bodies were discovered three days later, and the community was left in shock. She was only 21 years old.

The murders devastated LaLa’s family, friends, and fans—and to this day, the case remains unsolved. Despite being featured on America’s Most Wanted in 2010 and TV One’s Celebrity Crime Files in 2012, no suspects have been arrested, and the circumstances around their deaths remain a mystery.

LaLa’s funeral took place on October 25, 2007, at the Mason Temple Church of God in Christ, where mourners—including Lyfe Jennings—gathered to pay their respects. She was laid to rest at Graceland Cemetery in Milwaukee, remembered not just as a talented singer, but as a mother, daughter, and woman full of passion and promise.

Though her time was short, LaLa’s music continues to resonate. Her voice—full of emotion, depth, and honesty—still speaks to those who listen. And while her dreams were stolen far too soon, her legacy endures.

As of 2024, LaLa Brown and JeTannue Clayborn’s murder case remains open and unsolved. The families and the Milwaukee community continue to hope for closure and justice.

LaLa’s story is a haunting reminder of the fragility of life and the cruelty of violence, but it’s also a celebration of an artist who, even in her brief time on Earth, made an unforgettable impact.

Rest in Power, LaLa Brown (1986–2007)

Gone too soon, but never forgotten.

Follow her legacy: @lalabrownmusic