By Dorothy Tené Redmond

It’s no surprise this Midwestern girl has staying power. She’s an ever-evolving chameleon who had the moxie to step into the limelight of one of the world’s best-selling girl groups amid controversy, and has defied critics and detractors to become a star in her own right. Hailing from Rockford, Illinois, Michelle Williams first found her voice singing in her church’s choir. While attending Illinois State University majoring in criminal justice, she took the leap of faith towards her passion—music. She landed her first job as a professional background vocalist for the R&B singer Monica before being “discovered” by future bandmates Beyoncé Knowles and Kelly Rowland. She went on to record 3 Grammy-Award-winning albums with Destiny’s Child before the group parted ways to explore their own individual talents. Williams released two successful Gospel albums, Heart To Yours in 2002, and Do You Know in 2004, as well as a bold new dance/pop album, Unexpected in 2008, which included the #1 Billboard Hot Dance track “We Break the Dawn.” Williams became the first member of the group to perform on the great white way, making her debut on Broadway in the title role of Disney’s Aida, the musical by Sir Elton John and Tim Rice. She went on to join the cast of the Broadway smash, The Color Purple for its national tour as strong-willed Shug Avery before taking on the iconic role of Roxie Hart in the New York and Los Angeles productions of the hit musical Chicago. We caught up with the talented songstress about her experiences on Broadway, her passion for acting and the power of reinvention.

SoulSummer: You went from being in a top-selling R&B group to starring as Roxie Hart in the musical Chicago on Broadway, how did that opportunity come about?

Michelle Williams: I am honored to say that I am not new to Broadway and off-Broadway productions. I had the lead role in Aida in 1999. I played the sultry Suge Avery for the touring company of Oprah Winfrey’s The Color Purple. Last year, my former product manager, who actually lives in London, thought it would be great if I auditioned for Chicago for the West End (London) production. I thought it was a great idea! I loved the movie and stage production so I went for it and landed the starring role of Roxie Hart.

SS: What was your preparation like for the role of Roxie Hart?

MW: It required a lot of dancing and strong vocal output. So I worked my legs at least three times a week and did a lot of cardio. I have a great memory so learning the lines came easy for me.

SS: Roxie is so different from your public perception, what appealed to you about playing this character?

MW: Roxie is manipulative, selfish and a murderer—characteristics that are very much unlike myself. I always go for the roles that are opposite of who I am. It keeps it interesting and I love the challenge.

SS: You are one of the first African-Americans to play this role. What does that achievement mean to you?

MW: I was actually the first-African American to play Roxie in London. Robin Givens has played Roxie on Broadway but to be the first at anything is such an honor. It is such a humbling experience. Being the first at anything sets the standard and that is a great responsibility. I just hope my experience encourages someone who would like to do something that has never been done before.

SS: You are from a very religious background and your first solo project was a gospel album. Do you ever get backlash from the Christian community or fans for playing such a racy role? If so, how do you deal with critics?

MW: Not only do I receive criticism from the Christian community but other Gospel artists whose work have crossed over are also getting backlash. This is my job and this is how I feed my family. People need to understand that their relationship with God is personal and not for others to comment on. I deal with it by continuing to work and just be kind to everyone.

SS: Let’s talk about your other projects, you are also a partial owner of a basketball team. Please tell us a little about that.

MW: I am a minority owner of the Chicago Sky WNBA team. I was very excited when the opportunity was presented because I finally had a stake in a sports team! The team and coaches they are so wonderful. Pre-season begins at the end of April and I’m looking forward to a great season.

SS: If you had to describe yourself to someone else, how would you explain Michelle Williams and what she is like?

MW: I am witty and I love telling jokes. I love to laugh and have a great time. I love my personal space to meditate and just veg out. I love being with my family and my closest friends. People don’t know this, but I really enjoy cooking. I love being creative and hoping for a great outcome.

SS: You are currently going through a reinvention in your career, what is the best and worst part of redefining yourself in the entertainment business?

MW: The best part of redefining myself in the entertainment business is that I am making my own decisions and doing what is in my heart. I know what my strengths are and I can be real and just be me. The worst part is that people do not understand and think this is something new. The only new thing is that I am ultimately in control of my career and my life and I want to do what is best for me.

Dorothy Tené Redmond is an entertainment, lifestyle, automotive and travel writer. Check out her blog www.glamgirlgo.com.

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