The mother of Oscar-nominated actress Gabourey Sidibe and renowned subway performer brought joy to countless New Yorkers through her powerful voice and heartfelt performances.

According to The Express, Alice Tan Ridley, known affectionately as "Tan," passed away in March at age 72, leaving behind a legacy as a pillar of the New York City singing circuit.

Ridley's journey to national recognition began with her memorable 2010 appearance on America's Got Talent, where she captivated audiences and judges with her soulful rendition of "At Last." Her performance earned high praise from the judging panel, including Sharon Osbourne, Piers Morgan, and Howie Mandel, ultimately carrying her through to the semi-finals of the competition.

From Subway Platforms to National Television Success

Before her television breakthrough, Ridley spent two decades as a beloved figure in New York's subway system, where she touched countless lives with her performances. Her dedication to bringing music to commuters demonstrated her genuine passion for connecting with audiences through song. The underground stations became her stage, where she found joy in bringing smiles to passing strangers.

Her America's Got Talent appearance marked a turning point in her career, though she had already achieved recognition in various entertainment circles. Following the competition, Ridley channeled her talents into an album titled "Never Lost My Way," showcasing her enduring spirit and musical prowess.

The self-taught vocalist's commitment to her craft earned her several accolades throughout her career, including a 2007 Emmy Award for her work with Military Families. Her versatility as a performer led to appearances in various entertainment formats, from David Chappelle's documentary "Rize" to competitions on Showtime at the Apollo.

Musical Legacy Intertwined with Family Life

Ridley's personal life was as rich as her musical career, marked by her 1980 marriage to Ibnou Sidibe and the birth of their two children. Though the marriage eventually ended in divorce, it produced daughter Gabourey Sidibe, who would go on to achieve her own fame in Hollywood.

Her daughter Gabourey's breakthrough role in the 2009 film "Precious" brought additional attention to the family's artistic legacy. The performance earned the younger Sidibe both Golden Globe and Academy Award nominations, establishing her as a formidable presence in the entertainment industry.

The proud mother witnessed her daughter's continued success in various productions, including prominent roles in television series such as Empire and American Horror Story. Before her passing, Ridley had the joy of becoming a grandmother, as Gabourey and husband Brandon Frankel welcomed twins last year.

Lasting Impact on New York's Entertainment Scene

Ridley's performances at iconic venues like Harlem's Cotton Club cemented her status as a respected figure in New York's entertainment community. Her ability to move seamlessly between subway platforms and prestigious stages demonstrated her versatility as a performer and her commitment to sharing music with audiences of all backgrounds.

The judges' reactions during her America's Got Talent audition perfectly encapsulated the impact of her talent. Sharon Osbourne's bewilderment at how such an incredible voice could remain undiscovered for so long spoke to Ridley's humble approach to her craft.

Her passing marks the end of an era for New York City's vibrant street performance scene, where she inspired countless aspiring musicians and brought daily doses of joy to hurried commuters.

Final Chapter of a Remarkable Journey

Alice Tan Ridley's death in March 2025 concluded a life dedicated to sharing the gift of music with others. Her journey from New York City subway platforms to national television exemplified her unwavering dedication to her craft and ability to connect with audiences through powerful performances.

The beloved performer leaves behind a rich legacy that extends beyond her musical achievements, including her Emmy Award recognition and the success of her daughter Gabourey in Hollywood. Her passing represents the loss of a significant figure in New York City's cultural landscape, where she spent decades bringing music and joy to countless lives through her subway performances and stage appearances.