Jennifer Holliday is an American singer and actress known for her powerful vocal abilities and contributions to the genres of R&B, gospel, and musical theatre. Born on October 19, 1960, in Riverside, Texas, she gained widespread acclaim for her role as Effie White in the original Broadway production of "Dreamgirls," which premiered in 1981. Her performance of the song "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" became iconic, showcasing her extraordinary range and emotional depth. Holliday's rendition won her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical and propelled her to fame. She released several albums, including "Feel My Soul" (1983) and "Say You Love Me" (1985), with her single "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" also achieving commercial success, reaching the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. Beyond her theatrical success, Holliday has made a significant impact on the music industry, influencing artists with her vocal style and emotional performances. She has received numerous awards, including a Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance for "Home," further solidifying her legacy as a powerful figure in both music and theatre.