Introduction
Thelma Houston has been a staple in the music industry for more than five decades. She is a Grammy Award-winning singer who has created a lasting impact in the genre of soul music. In this article, we will delve into the life and career of Thelma Houston.
Early Life
Thelma Houston was born on May 7, 1946, in Leland, Mississippi. Her family moved to Long Beach, California when she was eleven years old. It was in Long Beach where Thelma honed her singing skills and began performing in local churches.
Career Beginnings
Thelma Houston began her career as a backing vocalist for artists such as The Rolling Stones, Joe Cocker, and Jimmy Webb. She also recorded some singles on her own that generated some buzz in the industry.
In 1971, after signing with Dunhill Records, Thelma released her debut album “Sunshower”, which was moderately successful. Her rendition of “You’ve Made Me So Very Happy” became her first chart hit, peaking at number thirty-one on the Billboard Hot 100.
Breakthrough
Thelma Houston’s big breakthrough came in 1977 when she recorded “Don’t Leave Me This Way” for Motown Records. The song was a chart-topping hit and became one of the most iconic disco anthems of all time. “Don’t Leave Me This Way” won Thelma a Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.
Top Songs
Thelma Houston has had several chart-topping hits throughout her career. Some of her other notable songs include:
- “I’m Here Again”
- “Saturday Night, Sunday Morning”
- “Love Machine”
- “If It’s the Last Thing I Do”
- “I Can’t Go on Living Without Your Love”
Personal Life
Thelma Houston has kept her personal life private, but she has been open about her struggles with addiction. She has been sober for over thirty years and has used her experiences to help others who are struggling.
Thelma has also been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ rights, and she has performed at numerous Pride events throughout her career.
Net Worth
Thelma Houston’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. Her fortune has largely come from her successful music career and her various performances over the years.
Legacy
Thelma Houston’s impact on the music industry is undeniable. She has inspired countless artists over the years with her powerful voice and captivating performances. Her contributions to the genre of soul and disco will always be remembered and cherished by fans around the world.
Conclusion
Thelma Houston’s career has spanned more than five decades, and she shows no signs of slowing down. She remains a force to be reckoned with in the music industry, and her influence will continue to be felt for years to come. Regardless of what the future holds, Thelma’s powerful voice and inspiring performances will continue to light up the stage and captivate audiences around the world.
