Melissa Manchester, born on February 15, 1951 in The Bronx, New York, is a Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. Growing up, Melissa found solace in music, playing the piano and singing from a young age. She was inspired by the likes of Aretha Franklin and Barbra Streisand, and knew from a young age that she wanted to pursue a career in music.
After graduating high school, Melissa went on to study songwriting at New York University, where she had the opportunity to learn from the legendary Paul Simon. It was during this time that Melissa honed her craft and developed her own unique style. She drew inspiration from a wide range of musical influences, from classic jazz to contemporary pop, which would later shape her sound as an artist.
It wasn't long before Melissa's talent caught the attention of industry heavyweights Bette Midler and Barry Manilow, who helped launch her career in the music industry. In 1975, Melissa released her first hit single "Midnight Blue," which catapulted her to stardom. Her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences around the world, earning her a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
Throughout her career, Melissa has continued to release hit albums and singles, solidifying her status as one of the most iconic voices in pop music. In addition to her music career, Melissa has also ventured into acting, appearing in various films and television shows. One of her notable roles was in the 2011 independent film "Dirty Girl," where she not only provided several songs for the soundtrack but also made a cameo appearance as a piano player.
On May 1, 1982, Melissa married Kevin De Remer, with whom she had two children. Despite the demands of her busy career, Melissa has always made family a priority, finding a balance between her personal and professional life. Her unwavering dedication to both her family and her music has endeared her to fans and critics alike.
Over the years, Melissa Manchester has left an indelible mark on the music industry, inspiring countless aspiring artists with her incredible talent and infectious passion for her craft. Her timeless music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, proving that true artistry knows no boundaries.