Melvin Franklin Net Worth, Cause Of Death, Biography And Family
David Melvin English, born on October 12, 1942, in Montgomery, Alabama, was the son of Rose English, a teenage mother. Unfortunately, David's biological father, the preacher of the family's church, impregnated Rose through rape. After his birth, Rose married Willard Franklin, and they moved to Detroit. However, David's grandmother raised him in Mobile. Eventually, he moved to Detroit with his mother and stepfather at the age of ten.
Profile Summary
| Net Worth | $3 million |
| Name | Melvin Franklin |
| Full Name | David Melvin English |
| Gender | Male |
| Born | October 12, 1942 |
| Age | 52 years old (at the time of death) |
| Place of Birth | Montgomery, Alabama, USA |
| Nationality | American |
Melvin Franklin's Net Worth
David Melvin English, widely recognized as Melvin Franklin or Blue, the American bass singer, had a net worth of $3 million.
Melvin Franklin Age
Melvin Franklin, also known as David English, was born on October 12, 1942, in Montgomery, Alabama, and he passed away on February 23, 1995, at the age of 52 in Los Angeles County, California.
Career
Taking on his stepfather's surname for his stage name, Melvin Franklin was a member of various local singing groups in Detroit. He became part of The Temptations in 1961 after the merger of several singing groups, including the Elgins. Throughout his career, Franklin earned recognition for his deep vocals, contributing to The Temptations' signature sound. Notably, he sang featured leads and delivered memorable performances, solidifying his place as one of the most famous bass singers in music.
What Is Famous for
Melvin Franklin, known as Blue, gained fame for his role as a founding member of the iconic Motown singing group, The Temptations, from 1960 to 1995.
Melvin Franklin Parents
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David Melvin English's mother was Rose English, who initially married Willard Franklin. However, David's grandmother raised him in Mobile.
Siblings
He had no biological siblings, but he often referred to fellow singers Richard Street and David Ruffin as his cousins, despite no blood relation.
Relationship/Wife
Melvin was married to Kimberly English, and they had five children together.
Melvin Franklin Children
Melvin Franklin and Kimberly English had five children: David Jr., Davette, Niquos, LaRissa, and Felicia.
Education
In 1958, Otis Williams, a classmate of Franklin's at Detroit's Northwestern High School, formed the group Otis Williams and the Siberians. Spotting Franklin's talent, Williams invited him to join the group as their bass singer. Franklin's distinctive vocals became a cornerstone of The Temptations, and he remained with the group until his death.
In 1978, Franklin faced adversity when he was shot during a carjacking, impacting his ability to tour with The Temptations. Despite this, his legacy continued through his contributions to the group's success.
In 1989, Melvin Franklin was rightfully inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Temptations. Unfortunately, his health deteriorated in 1994, leading to a hospitalization and the end of his recording career.
Melvin Franklin Cause of Death
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Tragically, Melvin Franklin passed away on February 23, 1995, due to heart failure. His funeral was well-attended, and he is interred at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Los Angeles.
Other Facts
Melvin Franklin's contributions were posthumously recognized with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013 and induction into the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame in 2013.
The biographical miniseries The Temptations depicted Franklin's life, although some details were altered. A legal dispute arose in 1999, with Rose Franklin suing various entities for the unauthorized use of her name and the false depiction of her son's death. The lawsuit, however, did not succeed.
