Marilyn Martin (born May 4, 1954) is an American singer and actress who achieved commercial success in the mid‑1980s. She is best known for her 1985 duet with Phil Collins, “Separate Lives,” which reached the top ten of the Billboard Hot 100, and for her solo singles “Night Moves” (1983) and “Talk To Me” (1986).
Early life and education
Martin was born in Los Angeles, California. Details about her family background and formal education are limited in publicly available sources.
Music career
Martin began her professional singing career as a backup vocalist for artists such as Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson. In 1983, she released her self‑titled debut album on Atlantic Records, which produced the single “Night Moves.” The album received moderate critical attention but did not achieve major commercial success.
Her most prominent chart achievement came in 1985 when she recorded “Separate Lives” with Phil Collins for the soundtrack of the film White Heat. The duet peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and entered the top ten of the Hot 100. The following year, Atlantic released her second album, This Is Not the Way I Feel, featuring the single “Talk To Me,” which charted modestly.
After her 1980s recordings, Martin continued to work as a backing vocalist for various artists and contributed to film and television soundtracks. She has not released a full-length studio album since the late 1980s.
Acting career
In addition to her musical work, Martin pursued acting. She appeared in the 1984 film Footloose in a minor role and performed the song “(Love Is) A Dangerous Game” for its soundtrack. She also acted in television series and made guest appearances on shows such as The A‑Team and Knight Rider.
Later activities
Since the 1990s, Martin has performed primarily in live venues and has occasionally appeared at nostalgia‑focused events featuring 1980s music. She maintains a low public profile, and recent biographical details are scarce.
Discography (selected)
- Marilyn Martin (1983) – Atlantic Records
- This Is Not the Way I Feel (1986) – Atlantic Records
- Notable singles: “Night Moves,” “Separate Lives” (duet with Phil Collins), “Talk To Me”
Filmography (selected)
- Footloose (1984) – Minor role, soundtrack performer
- Guest appearances on television series (mid‑1980s)
Legacy
Marilyn Martin is recognized for her contribution to 1980s pop and adult contemporary music, particularly for her collaboration with Phil Collins, which remains her most commercially successful recording. Her work as a backup vocalist has placed her in the supporting fabric of several high‑profile recordings of the era.