Melvin Franklin (1943-1995), the American soul and R&B singer and musician, died on February 23, 1995 at the age of 52, due to heart complications resulting from a rare muscle disorder. He was best known as a member of the Motown vocal group The Temptations, with whom he recorded many of the group’s biggest hits from 1960 to 1975. During this 15-year period, Franklin was a mainstay of the quintet’s celebrated lineup, providing backing vocals and harmony on numerous classic records, including “My Girl,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” and “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone.” Before joining The Temptations, Franklin was a part of The Primes, an R&B group that featured future fellow Temptations Otis Williams and Eddie Kendricks. Franklin’s gravelly baritone added texture and richness to The Temptations’ intricate vocal harmonies and arrangements, contributing to the group’s success. Franklin's legacy includes four Grammy awards and induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame alongside The Temptations in 1989. He will be remembered for his musical contributions in helping to create one of the most legendary vocal groups in history.