Born and raised in Philadelphia, Marc Nelson is the son of
Phyllis Nelson, best-known for the dance hit "I Like You." He was one of the original members of
Boyz II Men while still a student at Philadelphia's renowned High School of Performing Arts. After getting a solo deal with Capitol, Nelson found a hit with his 1991 cover of
Marvin Gaye's "I Want You," and the follow-up "Count on Me" also charted. His I Want You album was issued in September 1991, though afterwards, Nelson concentrated on developing his craft as a songwriter. After superstar writer/producer/artist
Babyface heard about his talents, Nelson found himself knee-deep in outside projects; he has written songs for
Toni Braxton,
Brandy,
Jon B, Tyrese,
Tamia,
Keith Washington,
Aaron Neville, and
Babyface. Nelson also appeared on a duet with Beyonce Knowles, on the movie soundtrack to The Best Man and released his second album (Chocolate Mood) in November 1999. The single "15 Minutes" became his biggest hit, denting the Top 40 at number 27. ~ Ed Hogan, Rovi