Phyllis Hyman was a powerhouse in the R&B and jazz world, known for her soulful voice and timeless hits. But how much did she actually earn during her career?
With record deals from Arista Records and Philadelphia International Records, Broadway performances, and chart-topping albums, her financial journey was complex.
While her exact net worth isn’t publicly disclosed, her impact on the music industry was undeniable.
In this article, PBC breaks down Phyllis Hyman’s wealth, salary, and financial success, including how she earned from album sales, royalties, and live performances.
We’ll also compare her career to other artists and discuss what happened to her finances after her passing.
Phyllis Hyman Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Phyllis Linda Hyman |
| Popular Name | Phyllis Hyman |
| Birth Date | July 6, 1949 |
| Age | Passed away at 45 (June 30, 1995) |
| Birthplace | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Education | Studied music (School not specified) |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Larry Alexander (m. 1977–1982) |
| Children | None |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Eldest of seven |
| Parents | Beatrice Lively Hyman, Phillip H. Hyman |
| Height | 1.84 m |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed ([source](Net worth, salary is not publicly disclosed. Not Search)) |
| Source of Wealth | Music, Broadway, Acting |
What is the Net Worth Of Phyllis Hyman in 2025?
Since Phyllis Hyman’s net worth has never been publicly disclosed, it remains a mystery. However, as a celebrated singer with a career spanning two decades, she undoubtedly earned substantial revenue from record sales, performances, and Broadway shows. Unlike many of her peers, she faced challenges with record labels that may have affected her financial stability.
When compared to other legendary R&B and jazz artists, her financial journey reflects a career focused on artistry rather than commercial success. Here are a few artists and industry figures connected to her:
- Norman Connors
- Arista Records
- Philadelphia International Records
- Barry Manilow
- The Whispers
- The Four Tops
- Chuck Mangione
- Grover Washington Jr.
- Jean Carne
- Lonnie Liston Smith
Want to learn about other legendary music icons and their financial legacies? Check out the highest-earning musicians in history.
Phyllis Hyman Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Did She Earn from Her Music Career?
Phyllis Hyman’s income came primarily from music sales, live performances, and Broadway productions. She began her career with Buddah Records before moving to Arista Records, where she released albums like You Know How to Love Me. Later, she joined Philadelphia International Records, where she found success with Living All Alone.
Her 1991 album, Prime of My Life, achieved Gold certification, making it one of her biggest financial successes. Apart from record sales, she performed on Broadway in Sophisticated Ladies, earning a Theatre World Award and a Tony Award nomination.
Did She Earn Royalties from Her Music?
Yes, Phyllis Hyman received royalties from her music, particularly from hit songs like:
- You Know How to Love Me
- Living All Alone
- Don’t Wanna Change the World (her only No. 1 R&B hit)
Additionally, she contributed to movie soundtracks and collaborated with artists like Norman Connors and Barry Manilow. While royalties were a steady source of income, disputes with record labels may have impacted her long-term earnings.
What Were Her Biggest Financial Successes?
Some of Phyllis Hyman’s most financially successful moments include:
- The Gold-certified album Prime of My Life
- Hit singles like Don’t Wanna Change the World and Living All Alone
- Starring in Broadway’s Sophisticated Ladies
- Collaborations with top musicians like The Whispers and The Four Tops
These achievements cemented her legacy, even if financial stability wasn’t always guaranteed.
What Record Labels and Contracts Did She Have?
Phyllis Hyman signed with multiple record labels throughout her career:
- Buddah Records (early years)
- Arista Records (late 1970s and early 1980s)
- Philadelphia International Records (mid-to-late 1980s)
Her relationship with Arista Records was rocky, leading to delays in album releases. However, her time at Philadelphia International Records brought renewed success with songs like Living All Alone.
Did She Face Any Financial Struggles?
While Phyllis Hyman had a successful career, she also faced financial and personal struggles:
- Conflicts with Arista Records affected her earnings
- She battled mental health issues, which impacted her career stability
- Unlike some artists, she never had massive commercial success, limiting her financial growth
Her later years were marked by challenges in both her personal and professional life, contributing to her financial difficulties.
What Happened to Her Finances After Her Passing?
After her death in 1995, her estate continued to generate revenue through:
- Posthumous album releases (I Refuse to Be Lonely and Forever With You)
- Royalties from streaming and re-releases
- Continued recognition and influence in the music industry
However, the details of her estate and inheritance remain undisclosed, making it difficult to determine the exact impact of her posthumous earnings.
Conclusion
Phyllis Hyman’s financial story is one of both success and struggle.
While she earned through record sales, performances, and Broadway, industry challenges and personal hardships affected her financial legacy.
Her music continues to inspire fans today, but her net worth remains a mystery.
Want to explore more about legendary artists and their financial journeys? Visit Pennbookcenter.com for more in-depth celebrity finance insights. Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
