Melba Moore recalls how she helped launch Freddie Jackson's career
The R&B singer died at 69, prompting Moore to detail how she discovered him in a New York club and secured his first major record deal.
By Sophie Lawson ·
R&B singer Melba Moore released a statement on October 30 mourning the death of her longtime friend and duet partner, Freddie Jackson. Jackson died on October 5, 2026, at the age of 69. Moore, who has been a fixture in the genre for decades, spoke publicly for the first time since the news broke to address their professional and personal history.
The connection between the two artists began in the early 1980s in New York City. Moore heard Jackson performing at a local nightclub. Impressed by his voice, she hired him to work as a background singer and composer. This initial engagement allowed Moore to observe his talent closely before she stepped in to help his career take off.
Moore advocated for Jackson within the industry, using her influence to help him secure a recording contract with Capitol Records. This deal marked the start of Jackson’s ascent into R&B superstardom. Her intervention provided the platform for a voice that would go on to define a specific era of soul music.
Their most famous collaboration came in 1986. The pair recorded the duet “A Little Bit More,” which appeared on Moore’s album A Lot of Love. The track reached No. 1 on Billboard’s R&B chart. Moore recalled the specific memories of recording that song, citing the laughter they shared during the sessions as a key part of their bond.
In her statement, Moore described Jackson as a great singer and an even greater friend. “My heart is broken over the loss of a great singer and even a greater friend, Freddie Jackson,” she wrote. She noted that their relationship was special and that she would forever miss him. The tribute focused on the loyalty they shared, framing Jackson’s success as a result of one artist recognizing the potential in another.
Jackson is also remembered for solo hits such as “You Are My Lady” and “Rock Me Tonight.” These tracks became staples in the R&B canon. Moore’s account of their partnership provides a concrete look at how mentorship functioned in the early 1980s music industry, specifically regarding the transition from club performances to major label contracts.
The release of Moore’s statement closes the initial public response to Jackson’s death. No further events or tributes have been scheduled as of October 30. The musical legacy of both artists remains anchored in the 1986 duet and the individual careers that followed from that early connection in New York.
Source: WTLC-FM
