Jennifer Holliday is an American singer and actress who is best known for her powerful and soulful voice. She was born on October 19, 1960, in Houston, Texas, to parents who were both gospel singers. Her mother, Jennie, was a choir director, and her father, Hollis, was a minister. Holliday grew up singing in her church choir and quickly developed a love for music. She attended the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, where she studied music and theater. After graduating, she moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. In 1981, Holliday landed her first major role in the Broadway musical "Dreamgirls." She played the role of Effie White, a talented singer who is replaced by a younger, more glamorous performer. Holliday's performance in the show was widely praised, and she won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical. Holliday's performance of the song "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" became a showstopper and a signature song for her. The song is a powerful ballad that showcases Holliday's incredible vocal range and emotional depth. It became a hit single and earned her a Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance. After her success in "Dreamgirls," Holliday continued to perform on Broadway and in concerts around the world. She released several albums, including "Feel My Soul" and "Get Close to My Love," which featured a mix of R&B, pop, and gospel music. In 1991, Holliday was invited to perform at the inauguration of President George H.W. Bush. She sang a stirring rendition of "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going," which was seen by millions of people around the world. The performance earned her widespread praise and cemented her status as one of the greatest singers of her generation. Holliday has also appeared in several films and television shows, including "Ally McBeal," "The Simpsons," and "The Color Purple." She has continued to perform and record music, and in 2018, she released a new album called "The Song Is You." Throughout her career, Holliday has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to music and theater. In addition to her Tony and Grammy Awards, she has been inducted into the Theater Hall of Fame and the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. Holliday's legacy as a performer and artist is one of passion, talent, and perseverance. She has overcome personal struggles and setbacks to become one of the most beloved and respected singers of her generation. Her music continues to inspire and uplift audiences around the world, and her voice remains a testament to the power of the human spirit.

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