L'Renee
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
She's jazz, she's soul, she's R&B, she's hip-hop, she's alternative-she's L'Renee and she's got a special song just for you. "Special Song" is the interpretation of the name L'Renee (pronounced el-reh-nay); and so appropriately named as her debut cd. Growing up in Detroit, MI- in a musical household no less- it's no surprise that L'Renee developed a passion for music. At the top of the steps, she'd listen to her father's band practice and jam, while her mother would tell her to go to bed and her father would say, "Let her listen Sandy." At the age of 6, she learned how to engage an audience during an elementary school production of "The Wiz. She performed at various talent showcases in her pre-teen years, but it wasn't until high school that her more formal training began. At Renaissance High School, as an original member of the group named "A Chord", she began honing her skills for hearing all vocal parts and writing. Her musical education continued at Kentucky State University, where she also participated in the choir and in various talent shows- opening up for artists such as Destiny's Child, 112, Jagged Edge and The Clipse. She's also performed with artists Stephanie Mills, Tramaine Hawkins in the production "The Black Nativity", '87 (from Wasted Youth), Se'Von and many more. In 2003, L'Renee decided it was time to give the world a special song and began writing, performing and recording her work. Influenced by artists including Sade, Take 6, Anita Baker, Musiq, The Clark Sisters, Beyonce, '87, The Doobie Brothers, Lauryn Hill and many more- L'Renee has an eclectic sound and taste of music. When L'Renee sings, there's passion, there's soul, there's something that soothes and makes you wanna holla at the same time. She's definitely something well...special.
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
My favorite is playing live with my band with me (of course) I perform all over. Detroit, New York, Philly, Texas, and a recent Maryland.
Your musical influences
I am influenced by Stevie Wonder, Sade, Karen Clark-Sheard, Lauryn Hill, Kim Burell and I love old school sounding organic R&B. Everyone in the same room feeding off each others energy to create great music
What equipment do you use?
It depends on the engagement. If the full band is requested, then it comes with lead and bass guitars, keyboards, percussionist/drums, and three background singers
