Melba Moore has experienced a remarkable career spanning four decades, with her debut album "I Got Love" earning her a 1971 Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. Her subsequent television show, co-starring Clifton Davis, was canceled due to her self-destruction and the couple's breakup. She struggled to revive her career, but eventually returned with a new album and a Tony Award for Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical for her role in Purlie.
Born Melba Hill in New York City, Moore was raised in Harlem and Newark, New Jersey, where she was introduced to the music industry by her stepfather, saxophonist Teddy Hill. She learned to play the piano and attended college, where she won the original role of Dionne in the musical "Hair." Moore's early success included a Tony Award for Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical for her role in Purlie.
Moore's music career experienced a resurgence in the 1980s, with hits like "This Is It" and "Lean On Me." She signed with Capitol Records in 1982 and released several successful albums, including "Love's Comin' At Ya" and "Keepin' My Love Satisfied." Moore also starred in her own television series, Melba, and had recurring roles on Falcon Crest and The Fighting Temptations.
In the 1990s, Moore traveled with the Gospel play "Mama I'm Sorry" and released several albums, including "Book of Dreams" and "The Gift of Love." Her career has been marked by a total of 11 U.S. Top 10 Hits on the Billboard Pop/R&B, Disco/Dance, and Album charts, solidifying her status as one of the most enduring artists of the 21st century.
Throughout her career, Moore has been recognized for her contributions to the music and entertainment industries. She has been a four-time Grammy nominee and one-time Tony Award winner, and has made guest appearances on numerous television shows, including The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and Solid Gold.
