1958 - Born in Bay City, Michigan. At the age of 19, she moves to New York City to pursue a dance career.
1983 - Releases her self-titled debut album, which peaks at No. 8 on the American charts and No. 6 in Britain. It contains Holiday, her first Top 40 hit song. Her distinctive dress style - bleached hair, lace and fishnet stockings, multiple accessories - sparks a worldwide trend.