I’m from Long Island, NY (pronounced “Lawwwng EYE-lind, New Yawk”). I was raised on gospel music. I played sax through high school. I studied Vocal Jazz Performance in college and I’m obsessed with gowns, books, candles and Sarah Vaughan…no yoga… no Sarah… no yoga. Oh, I also have A.D.D. That’s it in a nutshell.
I’ve sung around the world a few times, released over 100 songs and collaborated with everyone from Jay Z to George Duke, Natalie Cole to Nas and John Legend to Drake. I’ve shared the mic with legends like Patty Labelle and Stevie Wonder and I’ve hit the stage with Rick Ross, Wale, Kirk Franklin, The O'jays and Rob Glasper amongst others. I’m blessed. I have a curious set of giftings. It doesn’t quite fit into any box. I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Being diverse allows me to love so many different kinds of people and really, love is the point of it all.
Acting has been pretty fun too. I started out on one of my favorite tv shows “Girlfriends” where I was PETRIFIED into standing in front of 8 cameras. Tracy Ellis Ross calmed me out of my very first semi-panic-attack. I’m forever grateful. I’ve since had awesome acting opportunities on family friendly tv shows and programs. I’d say my comfort zone is “stage plays”. I’ve had a blast touring the country and acting with actors and actresses who later became besties and family. I’m not sure why, but I feel at home on the stage and the audience feels like an extension of my heart. Acting is my secret obsession and to be completely honest, I’m always practicing and studying. It’s one of my favorite past-times. (Well, that and photoshoots…)
I’ve had some public ups and downs. From the number 1 spot on the Billboard charts, to reality TV show drama. From sold out shows to political debacles. From scoring major writing deals, film & television licensing contracts, Marc Jacobs fashion show parties and a sexy all chick team to releasing myself of toxic energy to become the girl I am today. I’m epically human. I’m beautifully flawed. I’m rambunctious, brave, quirky and a TOTAL girl.
