Melanie Thornton

Melanie Thornton

Soloist of the popular group 'La Bouche'
Date of Birth: 13.05.1967
Country: USA

Content:
  1. Melanie Thornton Biography
  2. Discovery and Career in Germany
  3. Solo Career and Tragic Death
  4. Legacy

Melanie Thornton Biography

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Melanie Janine Thornton was born in Charleston, South Carolina, USA. From a young age, she showed a talent for singing, playing the piano, and clarinet. Inspired by her mother's love for disco music, Melanie began singing along to songs she heard on the radio and TV. She even started performing in popular shows and concerts to earn money for college.

Discovery and Career in Germany

Melanie's life changed in February 1992 when she moved to Germany to live with her sister and her husband, who was an American soldier stationed there. Her uncle, Bob Chisolm, a singer and pianist, convinced Melanie to try performing in German nightclubs. She had previous experience performing with a group called Danger Zone and was excited to pursue a career in music. Melanie's talent caught the attention of Frank Farian, a renowned producer known for creating successful groups like Boney M. and Milli Vanilli. Frank saw potential in Melanie and formed the duo La Bouche with her and rapper Lane McCray. La Bouche became an international sensation with hits like "Be My Lover," "Sweet dreams," and "Fallin' In Love."

Solo Career and Tragic Death

Melanie's solo career began in 2000 when she left La Bouche and signed with X-cell Records/Sony Music Germany. Her first solo single, "Love How You Love Me," was released in November 2000. She continued to release successful singles and performed under the name "Melanie Thornton, formerly of La Bouche." On May 7, 2001, Melanie released her debut solo album, "Ready to Fly." Tragically, on November 24, 2001, Melanie died in an airplane crash near Zurich, Switzerland. She was on her way to promote her single "Wonderful Dream (Holidays Are Coming)" and her album "Ready to Fly." Melanie's song "Wonderful Dream" has since become a Christmas classic in Germany.

Legacy

In memory of Melanie, a posthumous single titled "In Your Life" was released in 2002. She was known for her strong religious beliefs and would often pray before performances. Melanie had dual citizenship in the US and Germany and spent her last years primarily in Germany. Her grave is located at Mount Pleasant Memorial Gardens in South Carolina, USA.

The name "La Bouche" was chosen for the duo after Melanie sang a powerful note during a demo recording, showcasing the strength of her voice. This inspired the producers to name the group "La Bouche," meaning "the mouth" in French, to add a touch of intrigue.

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