Alana DaCosta

The harmonious vibes of this Songstress flows through the underground of main-street music and the passion expressed in her live performances shed some light on the original roots of soul music— life’s lessons. Indeed, the addictive vocal arrangements of Alana DaCosta have an impact on her audience. Her style of singing is controlled, captivating and inspirational. Her gift of song opens the minds of her listeners and arouses a new depth of soul music. Her distinctive sound extends beyond boundaries as she consistently blends nu-soul with grooves and vibes of hip-hop, reggae, jazz, and a drop of funk.

Born in Bronx, New York, to Jamaican parents, Alana DaCosta, as a toddler would hum the tunes of singers ranging from Gregory Isaac to Donna Summer. Alana’s mother would often encourage her only child to entertain herself with her “most favorite toy” in their home, her mother’s turntable. Alana’s exposure to various musical genres at a young age influenced her singing and songwriting styles. She began her musical endeavors at the early age of 7, performing in school plays, charity events and talents shows. By the time she was ten, Alana began writing poetry, competing in oratorical contests, and playing the trumpet in a jazz and concert band. Two years later, she enrolled at the Dillard Center of the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale, Florida; where she excelled in her chosen track of voice and instrumental training. As a student, Alana performed throughout Florida and Bahamas with some of the most talented musicians and singers such as Roberta Flack and Peabo Bryson.

A graduate of the prestigious Howard University in Washington, D.C., Alana’s strong passion for helping others influenced her decision to study Psychology as well as Music, with a concentration in Voice and Jazz studies. She continued to excel in her studies and performed throughout the Baltimore and DC area. “One day my music will touch the minds, hearts and souls of people across the world, and will increase one's motivation for self discovery and the desire to live life freely”, says Alana, a songwriter who truly understands and respects the healing power of music and conveys her artistic mission through her songs.

Since returning to South Florida in 2001, Alana has performed at numerous venues including the 2006 UNIFESTf annual festival in Florida, opening segment with legendary Freddy Jackson at the City of Lauderdale Lakes anniversary celebrations, 2005 annual Bob Marley festival in Miami, premiere screening of Erykah Badu's short film documentary "Hair Stories" at the elegant Nikki Beach Club in South Beach. Alana received admirable reviews from her audiences at Hard Rock Café Bayside and at “Urban Nights” held at the legendary Eden Rock Resort.

In the recording studio, Alana has recorded background vocals for various artists and has shared the stage with well-known reggae artists such as Beres Hammond, Luciano, Maxi Priest, and Marcia Griffiths. Alana also performs at colleges and universities throughout the United States with Poetic Akhu, a group of poets, singers, and musical pioneers that are driven by the desire to expose any audience to “homegrown soul” through poetry and song.

Currently signed to Flaming Star Productions, Inc., out of South Florida, Alana is working on her debut solo album, “My Smoke”, which will be released in 2007. Alana’s first single from the album, “Happy 2 Be Nappy” is an eclectic piece that crosses cultural boundaries and allows her listeners to feel the impact of her musical influences; ranging from the legendary Bob Marley to renowned singers Nina Simone, Rochelle Farrell, and Lauryn Hill. With the drive and passion felt in her music, there is no doubt, that this talented young lady is destined to leave her own mark in the world and make her artistic mission a reality.

Alana's HOT new single, "Happy 2 Be Nappy" is now available at:
http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/alanadacosta
and
Various digital download sites:

MusicNet
Apple iTunes
MP3tunes
Sony Connect
DigitalKiosk
MSN Music
Wrap Factory