Jennifer Holliday
Jennifer Yvette Holliday, born on October 19, 1960, in Houston, Texas, is an acclaimed American singer and actress recognized for her powerful voice and significant contributions to Broadway and music. Her journey began in the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Choir, where her talent was nurtured before she transitioned to the professional stage.
Holliday grew up in a supportive musical environment, which fueled her passion for singing. From a young age, she showcased her vocal ability through solo performances in her church choir. This foundational experience paved the way for her future career in the arts.
Jennifer Holliday gained widespread recognition for her role as Effie White in the Broadway musical "Dreamgirls," which premiered in 1981. Her outstanding performance earned her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical, solidifying her status in the theater community.
The song "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going," which she performed, became a signature piece and highlighted her incredible vocal range and emotional depth.
In addition to her Broadway success, Holliday has appeared in various television shows, including a notable role in "Ally McBeal." She has also participated in film projects like "I'm Gonna Git You Sucka" (1988) and made guest appearances on numerous programs, demonstrating her versatility as an entertainer.
Holliday's musical career includes several albums and singles, primarily in the R&B and soul genres. She has received multiple accolades, including Grammy Awards, which further attest to her musical prowess. Her style incorporates elements of Quiet Storm, Soul, and Adult Contemporary R&B, appealing to a broad audience.
With a career spanning several decades from the 1970s to the present, Jennifer Holliday continues to inspire aspiring musicians and actors with her dedication to her craft. She remains an influential figure in the worlds of both music and theater.
Feel My Soul
Soloist, Synthesizer [Synthesizer Solo] – Robbie Buchanan
Written-By – Billy Meyers, Jon Lind
4:50
A2 I Am Ready Now
Written-By – David Lasley, Willie Wilcox
4:56
A3 This Game Of Love (I'm Never Coming Down)
Soloist, Guitar [Guitar Solo] – Roland Bautista
Written-By – Nicholas Ashford/Valerie Simpson
4:03
A4 I Am Love
Written-By – Allee Willis, David Foster, Maurice White
4:36
B1 Shine A Light
Written-By – Maurice White, Wanda Vaughn, Wayne Vaughn
4:46
B2 Just For A While
Written-By – Gino Vannelli, Ross Vannelli
5:04
B3 My Sweet Delight
Soloist, Synthesizer [Synthesizer Solo] – Greg Phillinganes
Written-By – David Foster, Maurice White, Tony Haynes
4:28
B4 Change Is Gonna Come
Written-By – Maurice White
4:44
B5 This Day
Written-By – Edwin Hawkins
3:23
Label: Geffen Records – GHS 4014
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1983
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Eighties Soul, Disco
Jennifer Holliday's 1983 debut album, Feel My Soul, produced by Maurice White (of Earth, Wind & Fire), was critically praised for showcasing her powerful, gospel-infused voice, balancing soul and Broadway theatricality with sophisticated arrangements, despite some reviewers noting her occasional tendency to over-sing, but ultimately establishing her as a major talent, though a pop crossover hit remained elusive.
Maurice White’s production is described as "confident and sophisticated". The New York Times noted that the production effectively muted Holliday's Broadway "bluster" without dampening her "emotional fire". Maurice White expertly focused on Holliday's immense vocal talent, allowing her to shine without taking excessive risks.
Reviewers consistently praise Holliday's "thrilling fullness" and emotional commitment. While some critics, like Jack Lloyd of the Philadelphia Inquirer, felt she occasionally "tried too hard" to demonstrate her range, others lauded her ability to balance power with sensitivity.
The album blended soul, R&B, and Broadway influences, featuring strong horn arrangements and well-crafted material, including the theatrical ballad "I Am Love". It was seen as a confident, intelligent debut that proved Holliday's potential beyond Broadway, even if it didn't explode on the pop charts.
Feel My Soul is a definitive showcase for Jennifer Holliday's exceptional vocal abilities. It's a sophisticated soul album, elevated by Maurice White's production and Holliday's raw, gospel-trained power. While a critical success that solidified her solo career, its pop chart success was limited compared to its powerful content, leaving fans wanting more recordings from her.