Melba Moore, born Beatrice Melba Smith on October 29, 1945, in New York City, is a distinguished American singer and actress whose career spans over five decades. She hails from a musical family; her father, Teddy Hill, was a renowned jazz saxophonist, and her mother, Bonnie Davis, was a celebrated singer. Moore's early life was steeped in music, influencing her pursuit of a career in the arts. She graduated from Newark Arts High School and later earned a Bachelor of Arts in music from Montclair State College.

Moore's professional journey began on Broadway, where she made history by replacing Diane Keaton in the lead role of the musical "Hair" in 1969, becoming the first African American woman to do so. She further solidified her Broadway credentials with her Tony Award-winning performance as Lutiebelle Gussie Mae Jenkins in "Purlie" in 1970, marking her as one of the first Black women to receive this honor. Her versatility was further showcased when she became the first African American woman to portray Fantine in "Les Misérables" on Broadway.

Beyond the stage, Moore achieved significant success in the music industry. She released over 25 studio albums, with hits like "You Stepped Into My Life," "Love's Comin' at Ya," and "A Little Bit More," a duet with Freddie Jackson that reached number one. Her rendition of Aretha Franklin's "Lean On Me" earned her a Grammy nomination for Best Rhythm & Blues Vocal Performance in 1976. Moore's contributions to music have been recognized with three Grammy nominations and numerous awards, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2023.

In addition to her artistic achievements, Moore is noted for her activism. She has been a vocal advocate for civil rights, women's rights, and children's welfare, marching alongside figures like Coretta Scott King and Reverend Jesse Jackson. Her 1990 recording of "Lift Every Voice and Sing," featuring artists such as Stevie Wonder and Anita Baker, was entered into the Congressional Record as the second official Black National Anthem and was preserved by the Library of Congress as an "American Aural Treasure."

Melba Moore's enduring legacy is characterized by her groundbreaking performances, musical versatility, and unwavering commitment to social causes, solidifying her status as a trailblazer in American entertainment.