Patti LaBelle on Turning 80 and Her Upcoming Album ‘8065’ (Exclusive)

Patti LabelleThe Godmother of Soul is turning 80, and she feels “blessed” and excited to have reached this milestone The best moment of his life and career,

LaBelle spoke to ET at a special 80th birthday celebration in New York City on Thursday, and the iconic singer reflected on the milestone and revealed she has no plans to slow down anytime soon.

“Yeah, 80 is a good age,” Labelle said with a smile. Reflecting on what his 80th birthday means to him, Labelle said, “Just that I made it.”

LaBelle, who is the only surviving member of her five siblings, said, “All of my sisters died before they were 50.” Her brother Thomas died in 2013, while sisters Vivian, Barbara and Jackie died in 1975, 1982 and 1989, respectively.

“So I was really praying to make it to 50,” she added. “And then 60, 70 and now 80. I’m blessed. I’m truly blessed.”

LaBelle explained that at this point in her life she “feels like a grown woman.”

“I can still talk, I can still hear, I can see, I can walk, so it’s such a privilege! I’m still standing, you know?” she shared. “I tell all the young girls, ‘Everything will be fine when you’re 80.’ Because they’re all scared to say their age and stuff. Like, she’s a graduate, dear… Age is just a number. I’m 80 and I’m still good!”

In fact, she’s so good that she plans to release a new album later this year – one that will celebrate her life and longevity in show business.

“I haven’t put out an album in 20 years, so I’m working on it now,” she said. “It should be out later this year and it’s called 8065. I am 80 years young and have been in show business for 65 years. So this is what the project will be called and so will my tour. 8065!”

LaBelle’s birthday party was attended by many of her close, famous friends – Including Whoopi GoldbergLee Daniels, Gladys Knight, Debbie Allen and many more.

“I have a lot of friends here and so I’m having a party tonight! A big party!” said Labelle

Looking to the future and her legacy, Labelle has one hope and goal above all others: “I just want to continue living and living the way I am living, I hope I can inspire and spread some good feelings into the environment.”

She added, “Like I said, I’m working on new music, will put some good music in your ears soon, so I’ll keep working.”

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