“A musician must make music, an artist must paint, a poet must write, if he is to be ultimately at peace with himself. What a man can be, he must be.”
I was born in Chicago Illinois, the Windy City, a place where the infamous "Hawk" resides. A second generation fine arts enthusiast. Following in my mother‘s footsteps… I’m an actress, poet, singer, songwriter and author of several copy written works.
Singing has been a second language for me. If I’m not speaking with or to someone, I can be found listening to music and/or singing. At this time on my life‘s journey, my objective is to entertain and to inspire others through word and song.
I have been an active vocalist since high school. Aside from early influences from my mother and brother, Mr. Bero, my choir director, saw potential in me before I truly recognized my gift for singing. He encouraged me to perform solos for the Christmas and the Spring Concerts.
When the time came for handing out awards for the most outstanding students, I received the award for the most outstanding female solo performer. To this day, I’m grateful to Mr. Bero for encouraging me to step outside of my comfort zone.
In college I was the chairperson for the Maganbo (a unique insight into black culture). Poetry, art, dance and musical selections were performed. Being able to chair and perform in the Maganbo was definitely a catalyst for me. The production received high acclaim from the University as well as from the Director of the Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center.
After college, my love and passion for the arts continued. Participated in cabaret-ish productions and talent shows. Performed on local television for the United Cerebral Palsy and Muscular Dystrophy telethons, etc.…
When I moved to Louisiana, I was introduced to Southern Gospel music…. AND I LOVED IT! I was in the music ministry for well over 25 years. During the course of my triumphs, there have been trials. As life threw it’s punches, my love and appreciation of the music and the message resonated with me.
My motto is, I live moment to moment, day by day… and it’s a total faith walk, all the way.
During the course of my life, I have been influenced by many different artists of many different styles and forms of music. I will say that songs that tell a story, inspire and lift someone's spirit are my favorites. I love the style of Ella Fitzgerald, Barbra Streisand, Sarah Vaughan, and of course Billie Holiday, to name a few.
My debut as an actress began in 1995 in Lafayette, Louisiana with Omni Artiste´. Performed in: For Colored Girls Who Considered Suicide When the Rainbow is Enough, Before It Hits Home, Jar the Floor, Shades of Grey, Talking Bones, For Colored Girls... (2011), Storm Stories and Crowns. Acting is exciting and challenging. Bringing a scripted character to life is an exhilarating experience.
I strongly believe that sincerity, endurance, and a "never give up" perspective are key, if one is to have successes in life! I'm grateful to God for keeping a watchful eye on me as my life's journey progresses. I do believe, when GOD closes one door, He opens another one.