How did Mama Cass die is probably a question that was on everybody’s lips in 1974 when the legendary singer finally breathed her last. At first, there were some absurd rumours that she had choked on a ham sandwich and died. But the coroner later found out that she had died rather peacefully in her sleep.

At first, Mama Cass Elliot wanted to be an actress, but when she was 24, she became a famous singer with The Mamas and the Papas. Her incredible voice and always cheerful demeanor delighted her friends and fans, right up to her passing in 1974.

A Phenomenal Singer

While “California Dreamin'” had perfectly represented her generation in the 1960s and brought great success, Cass Elliot had started to feel like she was just a background figure. The famous vocal group split up only three years after their sudden success in 1965.

Cass was determined to leave behind the “Big Mama” image she had been given and pursue a solo career. After years of facing challenges, Cass felt she had successfully made that transition on July 27, 1974. She had just finished a two-week run at London’s Palladium.

With the audience giving her standing ovations every night. This was a dream she had wanted to achieve all her life. Unfortunately, Cass Elliot passed away just as her solo career was starting to take off.

The Tragic Death

On July 29, Cass Elliot was found dead from a heart attack in her apartment. Just a few hours before, she had spoken to her former bandmate Michelle Phillips. During their conversation, Cass had a bit of champagne and was feeling emotional.

She believed that she had successfully transitioned from being “Mama Cass.” Sadly, there were rumours circulating shortly after her death that she had choked on food.

Her final performance had been a great one, and she was feeling optimistic about her new career. She had put together an act that she was proud of, not compromising her values, and it was well-received by a broad audience.

She Had a Musical Life

Ellen Naomi Cohen, later known as Cass Elliot, was born on September 19, 1941, in Baltimore, Maryland. She grew up in a home filled with opera-loving parents and music. Although she initially focused on acting while attending American University, she soon started singing with local bands.

Her passion for singing grew stronger after she fell in love with Denny Doherty. Thus, you can understand why the world was intrigued by her death. Such a beautiful soul extinguished in a heartbeat. 

Taken Too Early

Cass Elliot temporarily stayed in Flat 12 at 9 Curzon Place in the upscale Mayfair district of London. On July 28, she attended Mick Jagger’s cocktail party but chose not to drink. She returned to the apartment, which was loaned to her by her friend Harry Nilsson.

Feeling happy, she called Michelle Phillips and went to bed. On the following day, several friends came to visit but didn’t go into her room, assuming she was sleeping.

Only when her secretary, Dot McLeod, couldn’t reach her by phone did they discover Cass Elliot’s lifeless body. It’s uncertain exactly when she passed away, but the date noted was July 29, and the cause of death was attributed to heart failure due to obesity.

Conclusion

Mama Cass daughter Owen survives her, and she quite often bemoans her mother’s passing away. She was a star taken too soon from her family and friends. To be honest, the world of music still remembers her for her brief but stunning contributions. If anything, we must take solace in the fact that Cass is now in a better place.

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