Stephanie Dorthea Mills
March 22, 1957
Stephanie Dorthea Mills, born on March 22, 1957, is a highly acclaimed American singer and songwriter whose remarkable career has left an indelible mark on the world of music.
Mills catapulted to stardom with her iconic portrayal of “Dorothy” in the original Broadway production of “The Wiz,” a production that garnered seven Tony Awards and ran from 1974 to 1979. Notably, the song “Home” from this musical not only became a cherished anthem but also achieved the remarkable feat of reaching Number 1 on the U.S. R&B charts, establishing itself as her signature song.
The 1980s witnessed Mills’ meteoric rise as she delivered an impressive array of five Number 1 R&B hits. These chart-topping hits included “Home,” “I Have Learned to Respect the Power of Love,” “I Feel Good All Over,” “(You’re Puttin’) A Rush on Me,” and “Something in the Way (You Make Me Feel).” Her musical prowess was further acknowledged with two Grammy Awards, specifically in the category of Best Female R&B Vocal Performance, for her enchanting song “Never Knew Love Like This Before,” a notable achievement in 1981.
Throughout her career, Mills released albums that achieved remarkable commercial success. Her albums, such as “What Cha Gonna Do with My Lovin’,” “Sweet Sensation,” and “Stephanie,” reached either gold or platinum status, solidifying her status as a musical sensation. These achievements were made possible through her collaboration with 20th Century Fox Records.
Stephanie Mills has earned a multitude of prestigious awards and recognitions over her illustrious career. Among her notable accomplishments are two Grammy Awards, bestowed upon her in 1981 and 1989. Her remarkable contributions to music also earned her six American Music Awards, spanning the years 1981 to 1987, and two NAACP Image Awards, received in 1982 and 1985.
In recognition of her profound impact on the R&B genre, Mills has been rightfully inducted into the R&B Hall of Fame, an honor that reflects her enduring legacy in the world of music. Furthermore, in 1998, she was celebrated with a star on the prestigious Hollywood Walk of Fame, solidifying her status as a luminary in the entertainment industry.
The following are her awards :
Stephanie Mills has received several awards and accolades throughout her career, including:
- Grammy Awards:
- Best Female R&B Vocal Performance in 1981 for “Never Knew Love Like This Before.”
- Best Female R&B Vocal Performance in 1989.
- American Music Awards:
- Mills won six consecutive American Music Awards from 1981 to 1987 in the category of Favorite Female Artist – Soul/R&B.
- NAACP Image Awards:
- Outstanding Female Artist in 1982.
- Outstanding Female Artist in 1985.
- Drama Desk Award:
- Outstanding Actress in a Musical in 1975 for her role as “Dorothy” in “The Wiz.”
- R&B Hall of Fame: Mills has been inducted into the R&B Hall of Fame, recognizing her significant contributions to the genre.
- Hollywood Walk of Fame: In 1998, she was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, celebrating her enduring impact on the entertainment industry.
These awards and honors reflect Stephanie Mills’ remarkable talent and achievements as a singer and actress.
Stephanie Dorthea Mills’ journey in the world of music has been nothing short of extraordinary, and her enduring impact on the R&B genre is celebrated by fans and industry peers alike.