Nico, born Christa Päffgen, was a German singer, songwriter, actress, and model. She appeared in films like Federico Fellini's La Dolce Vita and Andy Warhol's Chelsea Girls before joining the Velvet Underground at Warhol's urging, singing on their landmark debut album. She released her own album, Chelsea Girl, then began writing her own music, using the harmonium and collaborating closely with John Cale. Known for her haunting voice and avant-garde style, Nico released influential solo albums including The Marble Index and Desertshore. She continued to perform and tour internationally through the 1980s until her death in 1988.