My mom gave it to me.

I'm a studio singer by trade so I've been behind the scenes, with the exception of backups gigs, for quite awhile. That will be changing soon with the release of my new album on May 12th, however.

It OWNS the music industry now! And I love it. There's pretty much no need for a hard-working, creative individual to ever sign an unfair record deal. The name of the game has changed...no longer is "success" only defined as having a major label deal. There are hundreds of creative ways for musicians and bands to make a good living without one.

I highly doubt I'd be offered one because I am not underage anymore nor willing to prance around onstage in ratty extensions and lingerie! So the point is probably moot. But seriously...I just don't see the point. It would have to be the sweetest deal ever heard of for me to even think about it.

My history is really as a singer-for-hire while I perform my original music when I have the time. Way too much info about who I've worked with and for is located at DARCIMONET.COM.

I grew up on top 40, contemporary Christian, my dad's old Motown 45's and my uncle's classic rock collection. So you'll catch an eclectic little mix of Heart, Aretha, Amy Grant, Journey, Billy Joel, Janis Joplin, Sting, Elton John as the basis of much of my music. Currently I like Kelly Clarkson, Pink, Katy Perry and very much appreciate Kara's DioGuardi's writing work. I love a thought-provoking lyric supported by a catchy, a great pop hook and a healthy dose of guitar, but I also have a soft spot for heart-breaking stripped-down ballads. That mix is the essence of my new album.

I LOVE Vegas. But right now I'm missing the quiet and greenery of upstate New York, where I'm originally from.

Well, I use a Sennheiser mic, but other than that you'll have to ask whoever I hire to play for me at any given time.

For all the other gory details on my career, please visit my website at DARCIMONET.COM. I'm also on MySpace, Facebook and Twitter.