Combine the finer elements of today’s R&B excitement with the artistry and lyricism of Classic Soul, Funk and Jazz… “pretty it all up” and you begin to approach the amazing musical gift of SHANTEL! Born in St. Lucia, West Indies, the young songbird moved to Brooklyn, NY as a child, absorbing the creative influences of her multi-ethnic neighborhood. When Shantel began her adolescent years, her family relocated to Arizona. She soon began writing songs as a channel of expression. A couple of years later, Shantel began appearing in talent shows and beauty pageants. Frequently tapped to sing the national anthem for local sporting events, her high school years were very active creatively. Following graduation, she sang background and lead vocals with the band Kaufee, performing top 40 songs in Arizona clubs. Shantel also opened as a solo act for the Wu Tang Clan. A mutual friend soon brought her to the attention of veteran music producer Raymond Earl, a one-time bassist member of Philly’s celebrated Instant Funk. Their gold single "I Got My Mind Made Up" is a true Soul and Disco classic. Earl can also be heard on hits by Evelyn Champagne King (the million selling "Shame", etc.), Bunny Sigler, The OJays, Loleatta Holloway and a number of classics on Gamble & Huffs Philadelphia International Records. Her stunning demo was produced by Ray Earl. Shantel participated in the writing of the vast majority of these impressive songs. She continued performing occasionally while recording, most notably at Black Expo in New York City. As expected, the demo is attracting rave reviews, showcasing the singers sizzling sides, as well as her smooth sides. "Love… I Don’t Need It" commands emotional involvement from listeners, as “Lose Control” equally does. The uplifting "Arize" is inspiring and sensual. She quickens the pace on “Don’t Get It Twisted” and “U and Me”, demonstrating how easily she can make ya move! Nu skool with an old school vibe, adding welcome layers of intelligence and creativity. Shantel brings it all together in a manner that promises she’ll be doing it successfully throughout a long and thrilling career. ............................................................................................................................................ ................ I edited my profile with Thomas Myspace Editor V4.4 (strikefile/myspace)