Music
The best kept secret in music
Press
"I've been singing since I could talk", says an enthusiastic Rachel Black, the local singing sensation who has in fact, been creating quite a stir in the Twin Cities.
It became clear early on that a four-year-old Rachel had the beginnings of something special. The daughter of an opera singer, she was groomed by her mother, who emmersed her into the world of classical music. Her stage debut at age eight, where she joined her mother on stage and rendered an incredible solo rendition of "O Mio Ba Bine Caro," was definitive of what was to come. Today a grownup Rachel is aggressively pursuing her career as a recording artist. Although steeped in classical music, her influences also include R&B masters and divas like Whitney Houston, Stephanie Mills, Aretha Franklin, Marvin gaye, and Donnie hathaway, among many others.
"I want people to feel good when they hear my music", says Rachel. "I want it to be beneficial to you...have a message, but I want you to feel it!"
And feel it they have! Rachel has opened for acts like Kelly Price, BowWow and local rap groups Unknown Prophets. She also performedat B96's Anjolie bithday bash among others.
Rachel is currently working on her debut album entitled Simply Rachel, which is due out this summer. She is collaborating with noted songwriter/producer Morris Hayes of Princes New Power Generation, Doriel of the sounds of Blackness, and Static of Blackground Records. The result is a blend of hip-hop soul with a tinge of gospel overtures that creates a wonderful backdrop to Rachel's dynamic vocal ability.
If you've not been moved by this rising ingenue, you will be. Her message is simple: love and sisterhood. Her powerful vocal talent, her undeniable beauty and the sheer force of her spirit will move you!
- Minneapolis Spokesman
Discography
Rachel will be releasing a maxi single this spring on her own Indie Label, The Black Label. Airplay by the Minneapolis and Chicago area radio has already been promised. Three of five tracks on the maxi single can be listened to by clicking on the audio field. The first song, "Mercedes Boy", is a remake of the late 80's Pebbles hit of the same name. Instead of the original verses Rachel flips the script into a modern day street race between Her 600 Benz and His 68' Chevy, flirting back and forth. The second song, "Keep on Pushin", is a testominal song where she encourages you to "Keep on pushin' on /gotta keep goin' strong /I won't tell you wrong/ believe me that my word is bond". The last song, "More", is a promise to her mate that she'll give him "more". MORE meaning more of her time, more of her love, more of her everything because when it seems like they're fading away she sings"lets go back to how it used to be/when all that mattered was you and me". Please take a listen to each of the songs and...guaranteed you'll be wantin MORE!
Photos
Feeling a bit camera shy
Bio
Growing up with a opera singer for a mother Rachel has studied classical music all her life along with soul music. Rachel counts Chaka Khan, the Emotions, Stevie Wonder, and Prince as her main musical influences. Her influences can be heard in her sound. A combination of old school Chakka and new school Alicia Keys. Along with the voice, Rachel's songwriting abilities and impressive 4 octave vocal range make her a can't miss talent. When she performs, it doesn't matter what the age, the audience is touched by her voice, her soul, as well as her beauty.
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