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'A final round of applause': Broadway legend and sultry R&B songstress Marva Hicks dead at 47

Marva Hicks was known for her sensual and powerful voice and the broadway shows 'Motown' and 'Caroline or Change'

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Broadway icon and R&B singer Marva Hicks, a three-time Helen Hayes Award winner, died on Friday, September 16, 2022, in New York City. She was 47. The tragic news was announced by her family.

Her husband Akwasi Taha said in a statement, “The love she had for her husband, family, friends, and entertainment community knew no bounds. We have been deeply touched by the incredible outpouring of love. Thank you for your compassion and prayers." According to Ebony magazine, Hicks, born in Virginia, was loved for her “powerful, distinct, and sensual” singing voice. She signed with Polydor in the late '80s and was a legend in the theatrical community. Hicks is credited with the broadway shows 'Motown,' 'The Lion King,' 'Caroline or Change' and 'Lena Horne: The Lady at Her Music.'  

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While, the cause of her death has not been disclosed, reports state that she did not have any serious diseases and so her sudden death was quite shocking.

After releasing her debut studio album 'Marva Hicks' in 1991, her single 'Never Been in Love Before' became a hit, charting in the top 10 that year. Hicks also traveled the world and sangs duets with Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder. She also made appearances in various films and television shows including 'Star Trek', 'LA Law' and 'Mad About You'.

Her friends and collegues took it to twitter to offer their condolences. Theatre actress Felicia Bosewell tweeted, "Marva Hicks. True legend." Actress Lorraine King tweeted, "RIP Marva Hicks Such a talented lady who will be sadly missed." One of her dear friends Holly Robinson Peete tweeted, "Remembering my friend singer, composer, actress and #Broadway star Marva Hicks. Sending prayers to her loving husband Akwasi Taha- (my college buddy) and to everyone who loved Marva... We will miss you so much. Rest In Heavenly Peace, Sis.." Actor Stevie Rosen tweeted, "A round of applause for the one and only Marvelous Marva Hicks. It was an honor to bask in her glow and bear witness to her glorious talent. Sending love and comfort to the family and friends she cherished so much."