When most people think of Amy Winehouse, they associate her as a “junkie” or a “drunk,” but looking past her struggles with mental illness and substance abuse, Amy Winehouse was essentially a true legend. Known for her beehive hairdo and thick eye liner, Amy was always thought of as unique and authentic. Her debut album Frank was made just years before her descent into drug addiction, marking it as the first and only album she made while sober. Then, she met a man named Blake Fielder who turned her life into a drug-fueled controversy. After their marriage, Amy’s once exciting and hardworking demeanor turned into years of partying, drugs, and trouble with the law. She even dyed her hair blonde at one point and a video surfaced online of her smoking from a crack pipe. At this point, the media knew that Amy was struggling with issues. After she temporarily broke up with Blake, she released her most famous and critically acclaimed album Back To Black, which won five Grammys. But, that just wasn’t enough to hide all the problems she faced. Living with an eating disorder and bipolar disorder, Amy struggled with alcoholism until she died on July 23rd, 2011 of alcohol poisoning. Her death shattered the world and the shocked millions who graciously loved her. At only age 27, Amy rests in the “27 Club” along with Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and many other music legends that died at age 27. Here’s 5 reasons why Amy Winehouse is a pure legend.

1. She wrote her own music.

Amy Winehouse is well-known for her lyrical style and witty lyrics. She wrote poetry since high school and when she began singing at childhood, she wrote a lot of her own lyrics. When she hit the studio years later, her music became her own.

2. She was authentic and unique.

No one can deny that Amy has her own soulful voice. She called herself a jazz singer, but her discography ranges from R&B to Indie and Rock. Her musical influences included Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, etc. Nor can anyone deny her unique image and style. Her famous beehive hairdo and thick eyeliner is one of the most iconic signatures in the music industry.

3. She was the first British woman to win five Grammys.

In 2008, Amy won five Grammy awards including: Album of the Year, Record of the Year, and Best New Artist. She was officially the first British woman to win five Grammys in one night.

4. She influenced other artists.

Ellie Goulding, Lana Del Rey, and Adele have all made claims that Amy Winehouse influenced their music. Whether it be her image and style, or her musical talent, Amy has left an impact on the music industry in many ways.

5. Her family set up The Amy Winehouse Foundation.

The Amy Winehouse foundation was set up to help youth suffering from drug addiction and mental illness, and to help them reach the best potential they can. Amy Winehouse’s legacy stands as an example of how fame, drugs, and mental illness can really affect a person’s life.