Ep 6. Jennifer Holliday

UnSung is a one-of-a-kind music documentary series that takes viewers on a journey through the lives and careers of some of the greatest, yet often underappreciated, R&B, soul and rap artists of all time. Season 10, episode 6 highlights the life and career of Jennifer Holliday, a talented American singer and actress who made a name for herself in the entertainment industry in the 1980s and 1990s.

This episode of UnSung takes a deep dive into Holliday's early life, exploring her humble beginnings in Houston, Texas, and her family's strong religious beliefs that shaped her as a musician. It follows her journey from singing in the church choir to becoming a Broadway star and eventually landing her breakout role as Effie White in the hit musical Dreamgirls.

The episode recounts Holliday’s rise to fame and the challenges she faced along the way, including her struggles with addiction and mental health issues. Viewers will also learn about the obstacles she faced in the music industry, notably being a plus-sized African American woman in a business that often prioritized appearances over talent.

Throughout the episode, viewers will hear from Jennifer Holliday's family members, friends, and colleagues who witnessed her talent and resilience firsthand. The interviewees reminisce about her early days as a performer, her strong work ethic, and the undeniable power of her voice.

In addition to her acting and stage career, the episode also highlights Holliday’s musical journey, tracing her success with hits like "And I Am Telling You" from Dreamgirls to her work with iconic artists like Barbra Streisand, Luther Vandross, and Michael Jackson. Her career peaks and valleys will be told by the people who were there with testimonies to support the rollercoaster ride the singer experienced.

As fans of the show know, UnSung participants often share touching stories about their personal and professional lives, and Jennifer Holliday is no exception. Throughout the episode, she reflects on how her music helped her cope with personal struggles, including her battles with depression and drug addiction, and the importance of self-love and acceptance. Her words will be a poignant reminder of how music can heal even the most difficult of wounds and that the music industry is not just based on fame and fortune.

Overall, UnSung: Jennifer Holliday is a moving and captivating episode that pays tribute to one of the most talented and resilient performers of our time. From her early days in the church choir to becoming a Broadway and music star, viewers will gain insight and understanding on the woman behind the powerful voice and her life struggles. This episode serves to honor Holliday's contributions to the music industry and celebrates the beauty of her music while highlighting the challenges that are faced daily for a performer to stay afloat and shelve some of the most traumatic moments in life.