| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Stephanie Dorthea Mills |
| Occupation | Singer, Songwriter, Actress |
| Date of Birth | March 22, 1957 |
| Birth Place | Brooklyn, New York, USA |
| Country | United States |
| Net Worth (2024) | $1.5 million |
| Source of Income | Music, Acting, Songwriting |
| Height | 4' 9" (145 cm) |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Parents | Joseph Mills, Christine Mills |
| Spouse | Michael Saunders (div. 2001) |
| Children | Farad Mills |
| Education | Erasmus Hall High School |
| Notable Works | "Home" from The Wiz, "Never Knew Love Like This Before" |
| Awards | Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance |
| Current Age | 67 years |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Social Profiles | Instagram: @iamstephaniemills, Twitter: @PrettyMill1 |
Stephanie Mills, born on March 22, 1957, in Brooklyn, New York, is an American singer and songwriter whose career has spanned over five decades. Rising to stardom with her role as "Dorothy" in the original seven-time Tony Award-winning Broadway run of the musical The Wiz from 1974 to 1979, Mills has left an indelible mark on the music and entertainment industry. Here are some intriguing and lesser-known facts about her illustrious career and personal life:
Early Beginnings
Stephanie Mills began her singing career at the tender age of nine, winning the Amateur Night at the Apollo Theater six weeks straight. This early exposure set the stage for her future success in the music industry.
Broadway Breakthrough
Her role in The Wiz not only established her as a Broadway star but also introduced her to a broader audience. The musical's success was a turning point, with The Wiz grossing over $10 million during its initial run, a significant figure for the time.
Signature Song
The song "Home" from The Wiz became Mills' signature song, reaching Number 1 on the U.S. R&B charts. It remains one of her most beloved performances, often cited as a career-defining moment.
1980s Success
During the 1980s, Mills enjoyed a string of hits, with five Number 1 R&B singles including "I Have Learned to Respect the Power of Love," "I Feel Good All Over," and "Something in the Way (You Make Me Feel)." Her albums from this period, such as "Stephanie" (1981) and "I've Got the Cure" (1984), were commercial successes, contributing to her estimated net worth of $1.5 million by the end of the decade.
Grammy Recognition
In 1981, Mills won a Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for her song "Never Knew Love Like This Before." This accolade solidified her standing as a leading artist in the R&B genre.
Collaborations and Duets
Mills collaborated with numerous artists, including Teddy Pendergrass on the hit duet "Two Hearts," which peaked at Number 3 on the R&B charts. Her ability to blend her voice with others showcased her versatility as an artist.
Financial Milestones
By the mid-1980s, Mills had signed lucrative recording contracts with 20th Century Fox Records and later MCA Records, reportedly worth over $1 million. These deals were significant at a time when female R&B artists often struggled for financial recognition.
Personal Life and Challenges
Mills' personal life has seen its share of ups and downs. She was married three times, with her third marriage to Michael Saunders ending in 2001. Despite these challenges, Mills has remained resilient, focusing on her son, Farad, who was born with Down syndrome.
Philanthropy
Mills has been actively involved in various charitable activities, particularly those supporting children with special needs. Her advocacy has included significant donations to organizations like the National Down Syndrome Society.
Recent Projects
In recent years, Mills has continued to perform and record music. Her 2015 album, "Live at the Apollo: The Wiz 40th Anniversary", celebrated the legacy of her role in The Wiz and her enduring connection to the Apollo Theater.
Legacy and Influence
Mills' influence extends beyond music. She has been a role model for many young artists, especially African American women in the entertainment industry. Her perseverance, talent, and commitment to her craft have inspired countless individuals.
Financial Acumen
Mills has shown shrewd financial acumen, investing in real estate and other ventures. Her properties in New York and North Carolina are valued in the millions, reflecting her success beyond the stage and studio.
FAQs
How old was Stephanie Mills when she dated Michael Jackson?
Stephanie Mills and Michael Jackson dated when they were both teenagers. Mills was around 16 years old during their brief relationship.
Who is Stephanie Mills' first husband?
Stephanie Mills' first husband was Jeffrey Daniel, a member of the R&B group Shalamar. They were married briefly in the early 1980s.
How many Grammys does Stephanie Mills have?
Stephanie Mills has won one Grammy Award. She received the Grammy for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance in 1981 for her song "Never Knew Love Like This Before."
Who was Michael Jackson's first crush?
Michael Jackson's first known crush was Stephanie Mills. They met during the time Mills was performing in "The Wiz," and Jackson was reportedly smitten with her.
Who is Michael Jackson's first wife?
Michael Jackson's first wife was Lisa Marie Presley, the daughter of Elvis Presley. They were married from 1994 to 1996.
What are some of Stephanie Mills' notable charitable activities?
Stephanie Mills has been actively involved in various charitable activities, especially those supporting children with special needs. She has made significant donations to organizations like the National Down Syndrome Society.
Conclusion
Stephanie Mills' journey is a testament to her talent, resilience, and enduring appeal. From her early days at the Apollo Theater to her groundbreaking role in The Wiz and her continued success in the music industry, Mills has carved out a unique and inspiring legacy. Her story is not just one of musical achievement but also of personal triumph and financial savvy, making her a true icon in every sense of the word.