Cass Elliot, also known as Mama Cass, died on July 29, 1974 at the age of 32. She was an American singer, songwriter, and actress who made her mark on the music industry with her unique and powerful vocal style. She was born Ellen Naomi Cohen on September 19, 1941 in Baltimore, Maryland. She began singing and performing at an early age and changed her name to Cass Elliot when she embarked on a career in popular music. Elliot initially gained notoriety as a member of The Mamas and the Papas, an American folk-pop vocal group composed of herself, John Phillips, Michelle Phillips, and Denny Doherty. In 1967, the group received a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Vocal Group Performance for their hit single "California Dreamin'". Elliot went on to have a successful solo career and was one of the world's most beloved performers. Her hits included "Make Your Own Kind of Music", "It's Getting Better", and "Dream a Little Dream of Me," the latter of which she famously performed with The Mamas and The Papas. In addition to her life as a performer, Elliot was passionate about causes including civil rights and the environment, and was an avid believer in human rights. Elliot touched the lives of millions across the world with her music and her advocacy and her spirit will remain with everyone she touched.