Phyllis Hyman was an American singer, songwriter, and actress, renowned for her rich, deep voice and emotive performances. Born on July 6, 1949, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she grew up in a musical household that nurtured her talents from a young age.Hyman's journey to stardom began in New York City, where her captivating voice quickly garnered attention in the music scene. In the mid-1970s, she gained initial recognition as part of the group Phyllis Hyman and the P/H Factor. Her big break came when she was discovered by music industry veteran Norman Connors, which led to her appearance on his album, "You Are My Starship," in 1976. Her performance on the song "Betcha By Golly Wow" was a standout, showcasing her unique vocal prowess.In 1977, Hyman released her self-titled debut album, which further solidified her status as a rising star in the R&B and soul genres. Her music often explored themes of love, pain, and emotional depth, resonating with a wide audience. Over the years, she released several acclaimed albums, including "Somewhere in My Lifetime" (1978) and "You Know How to Love Me" (1979), which produced several hit singles.Apart from her musical career, Hyman also made her mark in Broadway, starring in the musical "Sophisticated Ladies," a tribute to Duke Ellington. Her performance earned her a Tony Award nomination, highlighting her versatility as an artist.Despite her professional successes, Hyman struggled with personal issues, including battles with depression and bipolar disorder. Tragically, her life was cut short when she passed away on June 30, 1995. Her death was a significant loss to the music world, but her legacy continues. Phyllis Hyman is remembered for her exceptional vocal talent, emotional depth in her music, and her contributions to the soul and R&B genres. Her influence continues to be felt, and her music remains cherished by fans around the world.