Jennifer Holliday, the powerhouse vocalist best known for originating the role of Effie White in Dreamgirls, turns 65 today. Hollidayβs performance of βAnd I Am Telling You I’m Not Goingβ became iconic, earning her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical. Beyond Broadway, she has enjoyed a successful career as a gospel and R&B singer, with multiple Grammy Awards to her name.
Holliday’s influence extends beyond her awards; she represents a generation of Black women in theater who broke barriers and set new standards for vocal performance. Her story remains relevant, as aspiring performers continue to look to her journey for inspiration and guidance navigating the industry.
We honor Jennifer Hollidayβs contributions to music and theater, recognizing her as a true cultural icon.












