Singer and actress Marva Hicks dies

(September 18, 2022) She was a multi-talented performer who won over fans on both stage and screen. We are sad to report the passing of singer and actress Marva Hicks. The cause of Ms. Hicks death is unknown.

Hicks' husband, Akwasi Taha, issued the following statement: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of our dear Marva Hicks Taha. Our beloved wife, family member and friend will be greatly missed and remain marvelous in our hearts forever. 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.” 

Hicks had a one-off disco single in 1978 as a teenager with "Looking Over My Shoulder," but really first hit our attention as a solo artist in 1991, when she issued her self-title debut album on Polydor Records. Her song “Never Been In Love Before” shot to the top 10, and she followed it later that year with “One Good Reason” and “I Got You Where I Want.”

Hicks also became a much sought-after backing vocalist, touring with both Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson.

As the 90s continued, Hicks increasingly focused on her acting career, performing in a series of live action films as well as voicing over animated ones, often singing in her roles. She also appeared in several television shows, including L.A. Law and Star Trek:  Voyager. With the expansion of television shows in 2010s, Hicks found continued roles in such shows House of Cards and Madam Secretary. 

Hicks truly found a continuing home in stageplays. She starred in the musicals The Lion King, Motown The Musical, The Wiz and several other plays both on and off Broadway.

While not a household name, Marva Hicks was an extremely talented performer who excelled at nearly every area of entertainment, and brought great joy to fans of each medium.