Happy birthday to the always-spicy R&B singer Millie Jackson, born July 15, 1944.
The Georgia-born singer is known for her powerful voice, bold lyrics, and candid stage presence. Jackson’s journey to stardom began in the late 1960s when she moved to New York City, initially working as a model and performing in small clubs. Her breakthrough came in 1970 with the release of her debut single, “A Child of God (It’s Hard to Believe),” which set the tone for her unapologetically honest and often provocative style.
Jackson’s debut album, Millie Jackson, released in 1972, showcased her unique blend of soul, funk, and R&B, earning her critical acclaim and a growing fanbase. She continued to push boundaries with subsequent albums like It Hurts So Good (1973) and Caught Up (1974). Caught Up, a concept album about a love triangle, featured the hit singles “If Loving You Is Wrong (I Don’t Want to Be Right)” and “I’m Through Trying to Prove My Love to You.” The album’s raw emotion and storytelling prowess solidified Jackson’s reputation as a fearless artist.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Jackson released a string of successful albums, including Feelin’ Bitchy (1977) and E.S.P. (Extra Sexual Persuasion) (1983), which further showcased her versatility and ability to address themes of love, relationships, and female empowerment with a mix of humor and grit. Her live performances became legendary for their energy, explicit monologues, and audience interaction, making her a standout figure in the music industry.
Despite facing criticism for her explicit content, Jackson remained true to her artistic vision, influencing future generations of female artists. Her candidness and authenticity resonated with fans, earning her a loyal following that continues to appreciate her contributions to music and her role in challenging societal norms.
Jackson’s talent also went to the next generation, as her daughter Keisha has had success both as a solo artist and as part of the SoulTracks Readers’ Choice Award winning act Daughters of Legacy.
