Miki Howard

Born into a rich musical legacy in Chicago, Illinois, Alicia Michelle "Miki" Howard emerged as a shining star in the R&B world. The daughter of two renowned gospel singers, her father, Clay Graham, performed with the acclaimed Pilgrim Jubilees, while her mother, Josephine Howard, a member of the iconic Caravans, a group honored with induction into the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. , Miki's destiny was intertwined with music from the start. Her mother's move to Los Angeles during Miki's early teens set the stage for a remarkable journey. At the age of 15, Miki Howard's talent caught the ear of Augie Johnson, leader of the group Side Effect, during a teen beauty contest. This fortuitous encounter marked the beginning of her professional career, as she joined Side Effect in 1978. She remained with the group until 1982, honing her skills and preparing for a solo career that would soon catapult her to stardom. In the mid-1980s, Howard signed with Atlantic Records and released her debut solo album, "Come Share My Love," in 1986. The title track not only showcased her vocal prowess but also climbed the R&B charts, setting the stage for a series of chart-topping successes. Her second album, "Love Confessions" (1988), and the eponymous "Miki Howard" (1989) further solidified her position as an R&B sensation. Switching to Giant Records in 1991, Howard continued her winning streak with hits like "Ain't Nobody like You." Her 1992 album, "Femme Fatale," featured her soulful renditions of classics by Dinah Washington and Billie Holiday. The latter role led to a cameo in Spike Lee's "Malcolm X" and the release of "Miki Sings Billie" in 1993, showcasing her love for Holiday's timeless tunes. A Grammy Award nominee for Best Traditional R&B Recording, Howard's career witnessed a resurgence with albums like "Three Wishes" (2001) and "Can't Count Me Out" (1997). She continued to captivate audiences with releases such as "Pillow Talk" (2006), "Private Collection" (2008), and "I Choose To Be Happy" (2015), showcasing her enduring talent and versatility. Miki Howard's impact extends beyond the studio and stage. Her episode on TV One’s "Unsung" became the highest-rated of its season, later adapted into a TV movie featuring Teyonah Parris. Even after decades in the industry, Miki Howard remains a force, enchanting audiences across America with her legendary catalog at sold-out shows during her ongoing tour. As a living legend, her timeless music continues to resonate, proving that Miki Howard's legacy is as enduring as her extraordinary voice.