Nora Payne

Radio disc jockeys and media insiders are buzzing over Nora Payne and what feels like a refreshing re-birth of timeless R&B music, with the release of her debut album, Pandora's Box. Payne's commitment to creating hit-making R&B classics is one of the reasons people are taking notice. Her poetic writing style, hot tracks and trendy hooks is what has them spreading the word! Upon first glance, it's easy to spot the obvious about this artist with petite frame. Simply put, she's gorgeous. But after talking to her, it is immensely apparent that she is fiercely intelligent and self assured as well. Having personally financed her debut project, no one can deny that Nora Payne is committed! Best known as a talented songwriter and vocalist, Payne has been a key ingredient in multi-platinum hits by mega stars, Michael Jackson, Brandy, Toni Braxton, Jennifer Lopez, and Britney Spears just to name a few. As a well respected songwriter, industry taste makers are heavily anticipating, the moment the rest of the world realizes who she is. Payne is the latest to join the ranks of female entertainers who have attained world wide recognition as singer and songwriter.

Pandora's Box released by Epiphany Entertainment, is a classic R&B album which takes listeners on a voyage of the fantasies of love and the intricacies of relationships. Accompanied by a collaboration of legendary hit-makers, that produce grown and sexy, feel good music, Payne delivers what is sure to be one of the most solid contributions to R&B that so many seem to be in search of. The debut album features guaranteed favorites such as the smash first single, "Crush" produced by trailblazing new comer, Briss. "Crush" is a passionate play on the honesty of falling in love. "Thump", yet another single, offers that familiar sound people have grown to love as soulful R&B. Also produced by Briss, "Thump" expresses the personal vulnerabilities and dramatic confessions of two people in love. A hypnotic single produced by Brandon Brodnex , "Always" which gives into to the idea of being totally committed to someone. "Always", instantly draws you in with sultry ad-libs and catchy hook. The more edgy and confrontational track "Beef", which warns of the consequences of betrayal, is a production effort of hip hop legend Marley Marl. A hot spin off of Biggie's, Life After Death hit, "What's Beef". This single is sure to make fans of even the most masculine hip-hop loyalists and serve as an anthem for all independent women. Pandora's Box successfully encompasses the wide range of emotions experienced in life and relationships; what it means to really love someone, the triumph and pain, and how they come together.

Like most ground breaking artist, the church served as Payne's training ground. While singing in church, she began to write and rearrange songs for the church group of which she was a member. Before long, Payne became one of the most sought after writers in suburban Maryland where she grew up. So apparent were her writing talents that in 1999 she joined prolific producer Rodney Jerkins as a part of the Dark Child Entertainment team. Her big break came in 2000 when Payne was offered an opportunity to work with Michael Jackson on his "Invincible" album. This collaboration produced the number one single "You Rock My World" and the chart topping song "Unbreakable," which they co-wrote.

Over the years, Payne has amassed an impressive list of writing credits as multi-platinum artist from R&B to Pop to Gospel sought her poetic lyrics and signature voice. One of which included singing background for Toni Braxton's GRAMMY Award winning single, "He Wasn't Man Enough". Payne also co-wrote three songs for Brandy's Full Moon album, including hit single "What About Us". Payne's endless list of projects also includes contributions on projects with Dorinda Clark-Cole, Candy Dulfer, LeAnn Rimes, Rahsaan Patterson, Kenny Latimore, Eric Benet and many others. Now poised to step into the spotlight, Pandora's Box is nothing short of the hit-making work she is known for.