A Life Cut Tragically Short
Mel Street, the American country music singer known for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, met an untimely end that left fans mourning. His journey from radio shows to Billboard hits was remarkable, but what led to his tragic demise?
The Man Behind the Music
Born as King Malachi Street on October 21, 1933 (although some sources cite 1936), Mel Street hailed from Grundy, Virginia. His early years were marked by radio performances in western Virginia and West Virginia. From there, he ventured into nightclub gigs in the Niagara Falls area and even worked as a radio tower electrician in Ohio. But music was his true calling.
Hits and Heartache
Street’s career took off when his single “Borrowed Angel”, which he also penned, became a top-10 Billboard hit in 1972. His soulful ballads resonated with audiences, and hits like “Lovin’ on Back Streets”, “You Make Me Feel More Like a Man”, and “Smokey Mountain Memories” solidified his place in country music.
The Dark Days
Despite his success, Mel Street battled inner demons. Clinical depression and alcoholism weighed heavily on him. In 1978, he signed with Mercury Records, hoping for a fresh start. But on his 45th birthday, October 21, 1978, he tragically took his own life with a self-inflicted gunshot. His idol, George Jones, sang “Amazing Grace” at his funeral, honoring a talent lost too soon.
