How a Broadway star's soulful voice defined an era of R&B
In short: Phyllis Hyman possessed a rare, expansive contralto range that captivated the music industry. From the stages of Broadway to the top of the R&B charts, her career was marked by immense talent and a profound ability to interpret heartbreak through smooth, soulful melodies.
Born in Philadelphia in 1949, Hyman rose from local musical groups to become a powerhouse in the R&B and jazz-soul scenes. Her breakthrough came through her association with Norman Connors; after he discovered her performing in a Manhattan club, their collaboration on the album 'You Are My Starship' achieved Gold status. This success catapulted her into the spotlight, leading to a prolific recording career that spanned several decades and multiple record labels, including Buddah and Arista.
In the early 1980s, Hyman successfully transitioned to the stage, performing in the Duke Ellington-inspired musical revue 'Sophisticated Ladies' for nearly two years. Her theatrical talent earned her significant industry recognition, including a Theatre World Award for Best Newcomer and a Tony Award nomination for her performance as a featured actress in a musical. During this period, she also achieved R&B chart success with her 1981 duet 'Can't We Fall in Love Again?' alongside Michael Henderson.
Despite her professional triumphs, Hyman faced significant personal challenges. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder and depression in the 1980s, she struggled with a lifelong dependency on cocaine and often self-medicated with alcohol. In 1991, she achieved her greatest commercial success with the album 'Prime of My Life,' which produced her first number-one R&B hit and her first Billboard Top 100 entry, 'Don't Wanna Change the World.' Tragically, Hyman died by suicide in her New York City apartment on June 30, 1995, at the age of 45.
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