Michel’le Toussant is an R&B vocalist from Los Angeles, California, born on December 5, 1970. She is known for recording the first hip-hop soul album ever and for the paradox of having a squeaky, high-pitched speaking voice with an aggressive, full-bodied singing style. Her feature debut as a vocalist was on the World Class Wreckin' Cru’s 1987 single “Turn Off The Lights” when she was 16 years old.
In 1989 her self-titled debut album was released on Ruthless Records, produced by Dr. Dre. The album contained the hit singles “No More Lies, “Nicety,” and “Something in my Heart.” The album was certified Gold and sold over 1.5 million copies. In 1997 Michel’le released her second album, “Hung Jury,” and the single “Hang Time” on Death Row Records.
In 2003 she appeared on the Dysfunktional Family Soundtrack.
From 2013 to 2015, she joined the cast of the TV One reality series R&B Divas: LA.
On October 15, 2016, Lifetime aired a biopic about her life, Surviving Compton: Dre, Suge & Michel'le. It tells the story of her abusive relationship with Dr. Dre and Suge Knight, her experiences with Ruthless Records, and her journey to find herself. Her intention with the biopic is to help positively encourage other victims of domestic violence.
