Phyllis Hyman: Multitalented Artist and Her Battle with Mental Health

For Mental Health Awareness Month, we wanted to take a moment to highlight an incredible woman. Pop culture icon, singer-songwriter Phyllis Hyman. A star in the 70s and 80s, Phyllis has touched us with her music, her sound, and her life story.

Who was Phyllis Hyman: 

Born in 1949, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Phyllis Hyman was an American singer, songwriter, and actress whose career spanned over two decades. She grew up singing in church choirs and studied music and drama in college before moving to New York City to pursue her dreams of a career in music.

Hyman's talent was immediately recognized by the music industry, and she quickly became one of the most sought-after singers of her time. She released her debut album, “Phyllis Hyman”, in 1977 and went on to produce several hit songs throughout her career, including "You Know How to Love Me," and “Old Friend.”

Our Favorite Lyrics + Notable Songs

Hyman was an incredible songwriter whose words have truly touched us and made us feel less alone.

With her song “Old Friend,” we hear a beautiful arrangement that tells the story of life without your person:

“Yes,I've tried to live my life without you

Knowing I had lost my closest friend

Though I fell in love from time to time

Knowing I would never find the kind of love I had when you were mine”

-Old Friend, Phyllis Hyman

With the groovy bassline and disco sounds, another one of our favorites is “You Know How to Love Me.” This one is truly a bop!

“And I'm so happy

You're the riddle of my rhyme

You and I together

We'll stand the test of time”

-You Know How to Love Me, Phyllis Hyman

Jade’s favorite is “What You Won’t Do For Love.” With beautiful melodies and instrumentation, it speaks on love for that one person that makes you do anything for love:

“In my world, in my world, only you

Make me do for love what I would not do

Make me do for love what I would not do”

- What You Won’t Do For Love,” Phyllis Hyman

Hyman and Mental Health

Besides Hyman’s successful career and music, she also battled mental health issues, sharing her struggles with her music. Hyman suffered from bipolar disorder, and she spoke of her illness. Tragically, she passed away from a sudden overdose in 1995 at the age of 45. Her death was a shock to the industry and her fanbase, who were devastated by the loss of such an incredible woman and artist.

However, Hyman's music continues to resonate with music fans today, not only because of her unbelieveable talent but also because of the candor and vulnerability she brought to her work. Her legacy serves as a reminder that mental illness can affect anyone, regardless of fame, career, or status.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, there are so many resources available to help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free and confidential support to anyone in distress. Remember, you are not alone, and there is help available.

Phyllis Hyman may no longer be with us, but her music lives on, and so do her touching messages on mental health, love, and life.

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