Shonka Dukureh, a singer and actress from the movie Elvis, died at the age of 44. CNN reports that Dukureh was found dead in her Nashville apartment that she shared with her children on Thursday. Police said that there was no evidence of foul play. Audiences recently saw Dukureh in the biopic about the king of rock in which she portrayed Willie Mae “Big Mama” Thornton, the first singer to record the song “Hound Dog,” which later became one of Presley’s most iconic hits. Along with acting in the film, Dukureh appeared on the soundtrack. She also appeared in the music video for Doja Cat’s “Vegas,” a song made for the movie.
Actress Shonka Dukureh’s Breakthrough Role in ‘Elvis’
The Tennessean details Dukureh’s journey to Hollywood and to Elvis. A North Carolina Native and Tennessee resident, Dukureh graduated from Fisk University with a bachelor’s degree in theater. She also obtained a master’s degree education from Trevecca Nazarene University. While she originally intended to teach, Dukureh instead sought a career in show business. Her role as Thornton in Elvis was her first significant film role, which she took seriously. “[Big Mama Thornton] was really raw with what she did and very honest and truthful and [made] music as she felt it,” she said. “I was very aware and wanting to really be intentional about making sure I was paying respect, respecting her, respecting her legacy, respecting her spirit, respecting everything about what she brought to music, and understanding that I’m able to do it because she’s done it and laid that foundation.”
Shonka Dukureh was set to release her debut album this summer. She is one of many stars we lost this year, including another notably young star, 28-year-old Jak Knight.
The Nerd Stash condolences to those close to Elvis actress Shonka Dukureh.
