Remembering the Brilliance of Phyllis Hyman: A Personal Reflection on the Timeless Talent of a Gone But Not Forgotten Musical Icon

By DJTen | RadioActive1 WBOB | April 13, 2025

One of my favorite female vocalists, the beautiful, enchanting, and incredibly talented Phyllis Hyman

Recently, while driving and tuning into the RadioActive1, a jam played that I hadn't heard in ages. It was a track by one of my favorite female vocalists, the beautiful, enchanting, and incredibly talented Phyllis Hyman. Her captivating ballad "Meet Me On the Moon," from her 1991 album Prime of My Life, deeply resonated with me. Hyman took five years to craft this masterpiece during a time when the R&B scene was shifting towards upbeat and youthful themes. Rather than conforming, she remained dedicated to creating music that spoke to mature audiences, showcasing her exceptional talent and style.

Phyllis Hyman's music career spanned from the late 1970s to the early 1990s, marked by her rich contralto voice that captivated listeners. Born in Philadelphia, she began as a jazz club singer in New York City, where her talent truly shone. The notable producer Norman Connors discovered her during a performance and, impressed by her voice, invited her to cover the Stylistics' classic "Betcha By Golly Wow" on his album You Are My Starship. This collaboration was pivotal in Hyman's career. Her heartfelt delivery combined with Connors' lush arrangements created a powerful synergy, leading to her signing with Buddah Records in 1977, which significantly altered her career trajectory.

Her debut album with Buddah Records achieved moderate success and featured a cover of the Spinners' "I Don't Want to Lose You." The following year, Buddah Records merged with Arista Records, prompting Hyman to release a series of albums that resonated well within the emerging urban adult contemporary genre, albeit with limited crossover success. During this period, the quality of material varied, but each album showcased her growth into one of the world's leading soul vocalists. Though not primarily a "singles" artist, she delivered several memorable radio hits, such as "You Know How to Love Me," "Riding the Tiger," "Can't We Fall in Love Again" (with Michael Henderson), and the dramatic "Somewhere in My Lifetime," produced by her Arista colleague, Barry Manilow. Additionally, she became a skilled concert performer, headlining multi-artist soul shows globally.

Mutual dissatisfaction between Hyman and Arista led to her contract not being renewed in 1982. Subsequently, she spent time guesting on other artists' albums and performing on stage. It would be four years before she recorded again, returning to Gamble & Huff's Philadelphia International Records, a label known for its lush production and strong material that suited Hyman perfectly. This partnership was successful from the outset. She excelled with her greatest album, 1987's Living All Alone, a remarkable collaboration with both Gamble & Huff and the legendary Thom Bell. The first single from that album was "Old Friend," a piano ballad by Thom Bell and Linda Creed, possibly the year's most beautiful soul recording, perfectly matching Hyman's style. It is an essential track for any soul ballad enthusiast. Another standout from the album was the moody title track, a haunting masterpiece by Gamble & Huff. Unfortunately, Hyman then vanished from the radio once more, as Philadelphia International Records changed its distribution agreements, leading to a four-year wait before the release of her Nick Martinelli-produced album Prime of My Life and her biggest hit, "Don't Wanna Change the World."

Hyman left behind a wealth of memorable songs that continue to resonate with fans today. Tracks like "You Know How to Love Me" (1979) and "Living All Alone" (1986) are not just hits; they are cornerstones of R&B music. "You Know How to Love Me" reached No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard R&B chart, highlighting her popularity and influence. Her covers of classics like "Here's That Rainy Day" and "What You Won't Do For Love" allowed her to infuse her unique style into timeless songs. Each performance was filled with raw emotion, making you feel as though the songs were written just for you.

Beyond her successful recording career, Hyman also displayed her talents on Broadway. In 1981, she starred in the musical revue Sophisticated Ladies, celebrating the work of Duke Ellington. This production ran until 1983 and earned her a Theatre World Award and a Tony Award nomination for Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical—a testament to her diverse talents.

However, Hyman’s life was challenging. Like many gifted artists, she faced severe struggles with mental health, which often cast a shadow over her brilliant music career. Her tragic passing in 1995 by suicide in her New York City apartment reminds us of the difficulties that lie behind artistic brilliance.

Hyman’s story reflects the broader struggles of many artists who battled personal darkness while creating music that touched the hearts of millions. Her work is not just about the songs; it’s a poignant narrative that invites us to reflect on the often-hidden challenges artists face.

Listening to "Meet Me On the Moon" allows us to connect deeply with Hyman's artistry. Her music speaks about adult experiences, relationships, and emotional resilience, making her a standout in a time when many musicians focused on lighter themes. While trends may change, Hyman's rich narratives and soulful melodies continue to move listeners all over the world.

As I delved deeper into my collection of Phyllis Hyman hits, I felt inspired to write this piece about Phyllis, her struggles, and her music. Music serves not just as entertainment but as a catalyst for introspection and connection. Hyman's melodies encourage us to embrace our emotions and express what often remains unspoken.

Phyllis Hyman holds a revered place among the music legends who shaped soul and R&B. Her legacy serves as a reminder of how she skillfully articulated complex feelings through music. As she sang, her ability to "Meet Me On the Moon" offers us a journey beyond mere notes and lyrics.

Hyman’s work reinforces the extraordinary power of music to connect us with our emotions and with each other. Though she has left this world, her spirit and artistry endure in the memories of those of us who cherish her talent. Listening to her music allows us to feel her presence, and during moments of silence, you can almost hear her soulful voice encouraging us to embrace life with grace and passion.