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Making a biopic about Miki Howard (played by Teyonah Parris) may seem like a random choice (yes, we saw that comment on social media) for our first ever Unsung feature film, but to us it only makes sense!

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Here are 5 reasons you (should) care about the story of Miki Howard:

1. SHE TOPPED THE CHARTS: When it comes to the hits, Miki’s got em’! From the mid 80’s to the early 90’s Miki was frequently seen on top of the charts with a string of Top 10 hits including: “Come Share My Love” (1986), “Baby Be Mine” (1987), “Ain’t Nuthin’ In The World” (1989), “Love Under New Management”(1990), and “Ain’t Nobody Like You” (1992). She didn’t have one of the best Unsung episodes for no reason!

2. SHE KNEW THE JACKSONS: Yes, thee Jacksons. In the 80’s Miki was represented by Joe Jackson and often toured with Michael. She also landed a role alongside Janet in the film, Poetic Justice. Her son, singer-songwriter B. Howard, is heavily influenced by Michael Jackson.

3. SHE OVERCAME ADDICTION AND ABUSE: Like so many of our favorite singers (like Whitney and Tina for example) Miki has had a fair share of challenges in and out of her career, battling an abusive marriage that resulted in her being blackballed from the music industry and drug addiction.

4. GERALD LEVERT WAS HER BOO: What’s a good biopic without a steamy romance?! For Miki  Howard, that person was Gerald Levert (played by Darius McCrary), whose chemistry lead to several duets between the two. Miki credits Gerald Levert with helping her overcome her drug addiction.

5. FRIENDS WITH CHAKA KHAN AND EARTH, WIND, & FIRE: Even as a childMiki was no stranger to the world of celebrities. Her parents were in the music industry and her mother would often take her to visit Aretha Franklin and Mavis Staples. Her closer industry friends included Chaka Khan and members of Earth, Wind, & Fire.

BEVERLY HILLS, CA - FEBRUARY 12: Chaka Khan and Miki Howard arrive at the Clive Davis and The Recording Acedemy's Annual Pre-Grammy Gala held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on February 12, 2011 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Gregg DeGuire/FilmMagic)