Michelle Phillips: California Dream

Michelle Phillips is the 'hot chick' from The Mamas and The Papas and the songwriter who penned "California Dreamin" and Creeque Alley.

Michelle is the ex-wife of musical genius John Phillips and actor Dennis Hopper, and she is the former girlfriend of actor Jack Nicholson.

There's no disputing that this feminine icon of Californiality was the hottest hippie-chick of the Love Generation.

Michelle is the still-hot mama to pop star Chynna Phillips, of the pop trio Wilson Phillips, as well as step-mama to actress Mackenzie Phillips.  The mysterious California rock star and actress is still a dream, but what is her reality?

I remember my first album by The Mamas and The Papas.  They created a new 'California sound' in 1965.

With John Phillips' great songs, Denny Doherty's velvety voice, and the seductive style and personality of Cass Elliot, Michelle Phillips' angelic face was as stunning as the group's new sound.

Holly Michelle Gilliam was born in Long Beach, California.  Michelle married John Phillips when she was just a teenager.  With their group, she became an international rock star with an abusive marriage --- at barely beyond high school age.

Later, four of Phillips' friends were taken by the Manson Family. Michelle had to move on.

Fast-forward to the '80s, when Michelle was dynamite on Knots Landing - and the '90s, when she sizzled on Beverly Hills 90210.  She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, as well as into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame.

Michelle's music continues to be played today, and the California Sound lives on.

Michelle Phillips will always belong to California.  She is one of the greatest cultural icons ever to represent the Golden State.  Hippie Queen, rock star, Hollywood actress, celebrity, songwriter and author, Mama Michelle remains our golden girl.

All the leaves are brown, and the sky is gray --- not while Michelle Phillips still keeps the California Dream alive.