New media darling, the jazzy and soulful Chrisette Michele talks to HoneySoul.com about the excitement of releasing her debut album "I Am," maintaining her individuality on a major label and she shares the message she wants to convey with her music. You’ll also hear music from her new album "I Am."
Chrisette Michele was blessed enough to be drafted to empassion Nas’ blazin track “Can’t Forget About Youâ€. Then on Jay-Z’s return to the studio, she helped her Def Jam label-mate to explore life and career on “Lost One†and created a buzz. As if to be destined for stardom, all the cards fell into place for the timely release of her debut effort "I Am." As if tutored by Billie Holiday, Etta James, and the like, Chrisette’s amazing voice mixes the sophistication of that day with an inner joy that could only come from her gospel days.
Like the smile on her cover, Chrisette’s energy uplifts each song above being ‘just another song’. Songs like “Mr. Radio†and “Best Of Me†are proof of her talented songwriting skills. Inspirational efforts of story and testament such as “I Am One†come across as the confessions of a true dreamer. She manages to keep the dream she sings of attainable and believable within the amazing spirit of her optimistic voice. Constantly hypnotizing your soul with her energy, Chrisette also sketches a heart-warming view of a father-child relationship in “Your Joyâ€. Taking a page from fellow songstresses Jill Scott, India.Arie, and Alicia Keys, Chrisette has filled this release with a palette of soulful variety from bluesy slow jam, to uplifting ballad, from hip hop fused jon’ts, to bebop soul.
Seemingly bathed and wrapped in music, Chrisette single-handedly has formed her own style and niche by writing and composing a majority of the songs on her album. Jazzy, bluesy, passionate, and sincere "I Am" is a testament to her dedication and appreciation for great music, old or new. Just like nostalgia holds random songs in your heart, Chrisette’s voice alone will take you back, make you fall in love with her passion for her craft, and cement her place in this bloated industry. So receive this sweet and unique new soul offering.
by Ben J. Brown Jr.
