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, All Music Guide