Cher

Cher, born on May 20, 1946, is an iconic American singer and actress, often referred to as the 'Goddess of Pop.' With her androgynous contralto voice and bold fashion choices, she has captivated audiences for over six decades. Cher's multifaceted career reflects her image as a strong-willed and outspoken woman, making her a significant figure in popular culture.

She first gained fame in 1965 as part of the folk rock duo Sonny & Cher, with their hit single 'I Got You Babe' becoming a symbol of the 1960s counterculture. Cher's solo career took off with moody pop songs like 'Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down),' leading to a string of number-one hits in the 1970s, including 'Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves' and 'Half-Breed.' After a successful acting stint, she released several hair metal albums in the late 1980s and early 1990s, featuring international hits such as 'If I Could Turn Back Time.'

In 1998, at the age of fifty-two, Cher released the dance-pop album 'Believe,' which introduced the 'Cher effect'—a distinctive use of Auto-Tune. The title track became a massive success, topping charts in the US and the UK. In the 21st century, her albums 'Closer to the Truth' and 'Dancing Queen' debuted at number three on the US Billboard 200, showcasing her enduring appeal.

Cher's television career began in the 1970s with 'The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour' and her solo variety show, both of which attracted over thirty million viewers weekly. She transitioned to film, earning critical acclaim for her roles in 'Silkwood' and 'Moonstruck,' the latter winning her an Academy Award for Best Actress. Cher's impressive filmography includes notable titles like 'The Witches of Eastwick,' 'Mermaids,' and 'Burlesque.'

As one of the best-selling music artists in history, Cher has sold over one hundred million records and is the only solo artist with number-one singles on the US Billboard charts across seven decades. Her accolades include two Grammy Awards, a Primetime Emmy Award, and the Kennedy Center Honors. Cher's 'Living Proof: The Farewell Tour' was the highest-grossing concert tour by a female artist at the time, earning an estimated two hundred fifty million dollars. Beyond her entertainment career, she is also known for her advocacy for progressive causes, including LGBTQ rights and HIV/AIDS awareness.