Phyllis Hyman Facts
Phyllis Hyman: The Tragic Story of a Talented Singer
Phyllis Hyman was a prominent American singer with a soulful voice that captivated many. She was known for songs such as “You Know How to Love Me” and “Living All Alone.” Unfortunately, her death at the age of 45 came as a shock to many, leaving a haunting legacy of what could have been. In this article, we delve into the facts about her life, career, and legacy.
Table of Contents
Singer’s Bio, Age, Relationships, Children, Height, Career, Biggest Songs and Net Worth
Phyllis Hyman was born on July 6, 1949, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was the oldest of seven children and grew up in a musical family. Her mother, a professional singer, inspired her to pursue music. Hyman later moved to New York City to launch her career in the entertainment industry.
Throughout her life, Hyman was in various relationships. She was briefly married to Larry Alexander in 1979, which was annulled a year later. She was also romantically linked to music producer and manager Norman Connors and baritone saxophonist Pepper Adams. Hyman never had any children.
Hyman’s height was often a topic of discussion in her career. She stood at 1.83 meters (6 feet), making her taller than many of her peers. However, her commanding presence on stage, along with her stunning voice, made it hard not to notice her.
Hyman’s career took off in the 1970s when she became a session singer for artists such as Barry Manilow, Pharoah Sanders, and The Fatback Band. She launched her solo career in 1977 with her debut album, Phyllis Hyman. This album produced her first hit single, “Leaving the Good Life Behind.”
Some of Hyman’s biggest songs include “You Know How to Love Me,” “Living All Alone,” “Don’t Wanna Change the World,” and “Old Friend.” She released her last album, I Refuse to Be Lonely, in 1995.
At the time of her death in 1995, Hyman’s net worth was said to be around $5 million.
8 FAQ’s about Phyllis Hyman
1. What was Phyllis Hyman’s first hit song?
Hyman’s first hit single was “Leaving the Good Life Behind,” which was released in 1977 as part of her debut album, Phyllis Hyman. The song peaked at number 67 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.
2. How did Phyllis Hyman pass away?
Phyllis Hyman passed away on June 30, 1995, at the age of 45. Her death was ruled a suicide by an overdose of sleeping pills. She had struggled with depression and substance abuse for many years.
3. Was Phyllis Hyman ever nominated for a Grammy?
Yes, Phyllis Hyman was nominated for a Grammy Award in 1987 for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for her hit song “Living All Alone.”
4. Did Phyllis Hyman have any acting roles?
Yes, Hyman had a few notable acting roles throughout her career. She appeared in the films The Kill Reflex (1989) and Once in the Life (2000) and had a recurring role in the television series The Gregory Hines Show (1997).
5. Who were Phyllis Hyman’s greatest influences?
Phyllis Hyman was heavily influenced by singers such as Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, and Nancy Wilson. Later in her career, she also cited Anita Baker as a significant influence.
6. Was Phyllis Hyman ever in a Broadway production?
Yes, Phyllis Hyman appeared in the Broadway production of Sophisticated Ladies in 1981. She played the role of Lorraine.
7. What was Phyllis Hyman’s signature song?
Many people consider “You Know How to Love Me” to be Phyllis Hyman’s signature song. The song was released in 1979 and became a hit, peaking at number six on the US R&B chart.
8. Did Phyllis Hyman win any major music awards?
No, Phyllis Hyman did not win any major music awards during her career. However, she was nominated for several awards, including a Grammy Award in 1987. Her contribution to the world of music continues to be recognized and celebrated today.
Legacy
Despite her untimely death, Phyllis Hyman’s music continues to resonate with many. Her soulful voice and the raw emotion she conveyed through her music continue to inspire new generations of artists.
Phyllis Hyman’s legacy is particularly significant for women in the music industry. She broke barriers as a dark-skinned, full-figured woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry and paved the way for future female artists.
In 2018, Phyllis Hyman was inducted into the Philadelphia Music Walk of Fame, an honor that highlights her contribution to the world of music.
Conclusion
Phyllis Hyman’s life may have been cut short, but her legacy lives on. Her powerful voice and the passion she conveyed through her music continue to inspire generations of artists. Despite the struggles she faced in her personal life, her talent and contributions to the entertainment industry remain a testament to her extraordinary spirit. She may be gone, but she will never be forgotten.
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