Soul II Soul’s Melissa Bell Dead at 53

Bell’s daughter, Alexandra Burke, won “The X Factor” in 2008

Soul II Soul’s Melissa Bell has died, her daughter Alexandra Burke confirmed on Twitter. She was 53 years old. In a statement, the Burke Family wrote, “We will never forget her unconditional love, support, charisma, strength, and courage throughout her life.” Melissa Bell joined Soul II Soul in 1993, recording and touring with the band until 1995. She continued her solo career after the leaving the group, and in 1999, fronted a new band called Soul Explosion. In 2008, her daughte Alexandra won “The X Factor.” Two years later, Bell released her book Heart and Soul: The Emotional Autobiography of Melissa Bell, Alexandra Burke’s Mother.