Melba Moore has enjoyed a long and varied career, from Broadway stardom to a thriving music career. Yet, despite her success, her financial journey has been anything but smooth.
She earned millions but later faced financial hardships that drastically changed her wealth.
So, what is Melba Moore net worth in 2025? How did she build her fortune, and what financial struggles did she face? This article uncovers the details of her earnings, wealth management, and how she compares to others in the industry.
Melba Moore Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Beatrice Melba Smith |
| Popular Name | Melba Moore |
| Birth Date | October 29, 1945 |
| Age (as of 03/11/2025) | 79 |
| Birthplace | New York City, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Education | Newark Arts High School, Montclair State College (BA in Music) |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Charles Huggins (m. 1974, div. 1991) |
| Children | Melba Charli Huggins |
| Dating | Previously dated Clifton Davis |
| Siblings | Gwendolyn Louise Hill |
| Parents | Gertrude Melba Smith (Bonnie Davis), Teddy Hill |
| Height | 5 ft 1 in (1.55 m) |
| Net Worth | $30,000 (estimated in 2025) |
| Source of Wealth | Music, Acting, Broadway, Television |
What is the Net Worth Of Melba Moore in 2025?
As of 2025, Melba Moore’s net worth is estimated to be $30,000. Despite her earlier financial success in the entertainment industry, she faced severe financial struggles, even losing millions and living on welfare at one point.
Compared to other artists of her time, her financial standing is significantly lower. Many of her peers, such as Aretha Franklin and Donna Summer, maintained higher wealth due to better financial management and ongoing royalties.
Related People in the Industry
- Aretha Franklin
- Donna Summer
- Freddie Jackson
- Clifton Davis
- Charles Huggins
- Meli’sa Morgan
- Van McCoy
- Eartha Kitt
- Teddy Hill
- Bonnie Davis
For more insights into wealthy entertainers, check out this list of the most successful celebrities.
Melba Moore Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Did She Earn Her Wealth?
Melba Moore built her fortune through multiple income streams:
- Broadway Career: She starred in Purlie, which won her a Tony Award, and performed in Hair and Les Misérables.
- Music Success: Her hit songs This Is It, Lean on Me, and Love’s Comin’ at Ya brought in significant revenue.
- Acting and Television: She appeared in the sitcom Melba and films like The Fighting Temptations.
- Business Ventures: She co-founded Huesh Productions with her ex-husband, Charles Huggins.
What Are Her Major Sources of Income?
Throughout her career, her earnings came from:
- Music royalties from her successful singles and albums.
- Broadway performances, including Tony Award-winning roles.
- TV and film appearances, providing steady paychecks.
- Live concerts and tours, generating additional revenue.
- Production company earnings, although financial mismanagement led to losses.
Did She Face Financial Struggles?
Yes, Melba Moore experienced significant financial hardships:
- Lost millions due to poor financial management.
- Divorce from Charles Huggins led to legal and financial difficulties.
- Lived on welfare for a period, despite once being a top-earning artist.
- Career decline in the late 1990s affected her income.
How Did She Manage Her Finances Over Time?
Her financial management fluctuated over the years:
- Early in her career, she earned substantial wealth from music and Broadway.
- However, poor financial decisions and a lack of investment strategy led to losses.
- Legal battles and a costly divorce further drained her assets.
- She attempted a comeback through gospel music and live performances.
What Are Her Most Lucrative Career Achievements?
Despite her financial setbacks, Moore had several major career milestones:
- Tony Award win for Purlie (1970).
- Three Grammy nominations, including Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for Lean on Me.
- Top 10 chart hits, including This Is It and You Stepped Into My Life.
- Broadway roles, including Les Misérables and Ain’t Misbehavin’.
How Has Her Wealth Changed Over the Years?
Melba Moore’s financial trajectory has been a rollercoaster:
- 1970s-1980s: Peak financial success with music, Broadway, and TV.
- 1990s: Financial decline, legal issues, and welfare.
- 2000s-Present: Modest recovery, continued performances, and Hall of Fame recognition.
What Role Do Music Royalties Play in Her Finances?
Music royalties have been a significant yet inconsistent source of income:
- Hits like This Is It and Love’s Comin’ at Ya generate ongoing revenue.
- Digital streaming provides small but steady earnings.
- However, past contract agreements may limit earnings.
How Does She Compare Financially to Other Artists in Her Era?
Compared to her peers, Melba Moore’s financial struggles stand out:
- Aretha Franklin and Donna Summer maintained higher wealth through royalties and investments.
- Freddie Jackson and Kashif, artists she collaborated with, had better financial stability.
- Legal issues and business mismanagement impacted her long-term financial health.
What Is Her Current Financial Outlook?
As of 2025, her financial situation remains modest:
- She continues to perform and release music, but earnings are limited.
- Recent recognition, including a Hollywood Walk of Fame star, boosts her public image.
- Future opportunities may arise through licensing, documentaries, or book deals.
Conclusion
Melba Moore’s financial journey has been one of highs and lows. Despite her struggles, she remains an influential figure in music and Broadway. Want to explore more about celebrity finances? Visit Pennbookcenter.com for in-depth analysis!
