Teresajenee

Few of us are fortunate enough to discover our passions and talents at an early age without having to go through a trial and error process to figure out where it is that we fit in. Some of us, for one reason or another, discover our gift only to find ourselves attempting to run from the inevitable fact that we are simply destined to make a difference in this thing we call “life.” For singer/musician/songwriter Teresajenee music was to be her destiny. Teresajenee the "musician beatmaker pen" got her start as a feature on Osunlade's "Remember EP" (Yoruba Records/2007) and in just four years, she has opened for talents such as Eric Roberson, Anthony David, even Solange Knowles. She’s performed for the 2011 SXSW and International Soul Music Summit festivals, stages in St. Louis, Memphis, Atlanta, North Carolina, LA, DC, Richmond and on campuses including University of Missouri-Columbia, Webster University, and her alma mater Tennessee State University. Her city’s alt-weekly newspaper, The Riverfront Times has named her best artist in R&B female category. In 2009, she was even granted her rite of passage as an artist by performing at two world renowned venues, SOB’s and Village Underground, in New York City. Teresa has also released independently two projects, "Teresajenee EP" (2008) and "The Ecklectic" (2009). Not bad for a little rose from the concrete streets of Walnut Park in St. Louis, Missouri. Its not like she had much of a choice either; her father is a preacher singer and guitarist; her mother used to lead sing for a soul band in the 70s. Raised in such a creative environment, it was here her gifts in art and music were nurtured and her affinity towards the keys and organ developed. In addition, her musical range, inspired by Frank Sinatra, David Bowie, Lauryn Hill, Elton John, Erykah Badu, The Clark Sisters, and Kim Burrell also flourished. Teresajenee plays four instruments: piano, organ, clarinet, and drums. Today, unwilling to conform for the sole purpose of corporate radio play,Teresajenee instead chooses to do things her way. When asked what “her way” is she describes it as, “music that is soulful, introspective, and refreshing". Miss TJ feels that it is not her duty to let the artistry suffer for the sake of a get rich quick, one hit wonder kind of career. She instead opts to create thought provoking, well written music that will reach the masses worldwide. She aspires to create songs that lyrically, vocally, and musically challenge the crassness of mainstream music today. Teresajenee has accepted the lifestyle of being a true artist and in hindsight understands that she did not discover music as her medium, but rather music has selected her to make a difference in this world. -M. Woodard http://teresajenee.com