Susannah Melvoin

Susannah Melvoin

Susannah Melvoin (born January 26, 1964) is an American vocalist, songwriter and actress, perhaps best known for her association with Prince in the mid-1980s. Coming from a musical family, Melvoin is the twin sister of musician Wendy Melvoin, sister to the late Jonathan Melvoin, touring keyboardist with the The Smashing Pumpkins, and daughter of jazz pianist (and former NARAS president) Michael Melvoin.

Work with Prince

Melvoin got her start working with Prince in the mid-1980s during sister Wendy's stint with The Revolution. During this period, she was tapped to be co-lead vocalist of Prince's side project The Family. Prince wrote The Family's 1985 song "Nothing Compares 2 U reportedly about Melvoin. The song became a hit when Sinéad O'Connor covered it in 1990.

Later, she joined the expanded line-up of The Revolution, adding backing vocals to Parade, including the 1986 single "Anotherloverholenyohead". She designed the Dream Factory jacket, and, unlike the rest of The Revolution, received a credit on Sign o' the Times. Melvoin also co-wrote some songs with Prince.

Later work

Melvoin has subsequently worked as a background vocalist for such artists as Roger Waters, Eric Clapton and Mike Oldfield among others and has performed vocals on Wendy & Lisa's albums.

As a songwriter, she has co-written songs performed by Madonna, Eric Clapton, and Doyle Bramhall II (member of Arc Angels, and Melvoin's husband).

She has also performed in small or cameo roles in three small-budget films, including Skin & Bone and Luster.

In 2007, The Family reunited to record a new CD, and renamed themselves Fdeluxe in 2009.