Scenic Woods

(Sce`nic) adj. 1. Of the stage. 2. Of natural scenery & beauty. Ever wonder what you’d get if you could fuse the sounds of Tina Turner, Janet Jackson, a little bit of Millie Jackson & Gwen Stefani? Well, it’s simple: Scenic Woods.

Her face may look familiar to underground music lovers. Formerly of Def Squad’s female trio, “Tha Truth!” Scenic’s been around the musical block. With experience as a previous Faith Evans background vocalist, and collaborations with Missy Elliott, The Def Squad’s Erick Sermon and The RZA of Wu-Tang, to name a few, it’s safe to say Scenic’s had her share of great opportunities.

Growing up on the north side of Houston, Texas made her a sharp, yet street smart young lady who loves the arts. Scenic admits, “I never thought I’d be singing professionally, I’ve been studying dance since a young child, and I was in the choir because I just loved music, but everyone used to always make me sing for them, especially on my high school cheerleading squad.” Naturally she thought she’d have a career in dance. It was a twist in fate when she became a NFL cheerleader and the team asked her to sing the National Anthem. From then on it was clear that singing was a gift not to be ignored. Joining a band was awesome, though her true destiny lied in solo status.

Writing from real life experiences gave her a confidence to express more and more. As hearts were broken, fake friends were set free and dreams were shattered, Scenic turned it into a more powerful energy. “I just like to put it all out there, it makes me feel better to get stuff off my chest, it’s therapy.” Baring her soul with catchy hooks and harmonious melodies, Scenic’s refreshing signature sound fuses Rock & Roll, R&B/Soul and Hip-Hop. With undeniable hits, like the body rocking, J-Craft (Willie D of The Geto Boys) produced, “Damn Boy,” it’s pretty evident she knows what she wants. Singing, “I like the fact you’re so secure don’t nothing ever faze you, You’re so in tune with self I like the way your mama raised you.” Let’s not forget the industry anthem, “Wait in Line,” which describes Scenic’s individuality & patience in the music game and suggests the lack of talent on the radio nowadays. Listening to the soul tingling “Used 2,” you immediately identify this song as a mini-autobiography into the things the artist used to do. From hit’n the streets & partying hard, to fighting, it’s clear she’s matured and found peace.

Performing with her live band at urban hot-spots like The Red Cat Jazz Café, The Vault and M Bar, allowed H-Town to get a true grasp of Scenic’s eclectic, funky style. Her stage presence is unbelievable and has earned her a local following and a certain respect. And in November 2003 she was crowned Grand Prize winner of the Power 97.5/Absolut Jamz R&B talent search at The Sky Bar. A recurrent performer at The Tampax/Pantene Total You Tour since 2003, Scenic feels honored. “Anything to get young girls inspired and involved with self-esteem issues is a blessing in disguise.” She also co-starred in “Bella,” a Pan African Film Festival screened independent film. Scenic reflects, “I was in L.A. working on music and a friend knew a director. So I read for the part, nervous and all, and got the co-starring role as Deb.” “It was definitely an experience that I’m going to explore more.”

The industry is thirsty for an artist like Scenic Woods. Equipped with a triple threat element and sweet southern hospitality, from here, it’s all up hill. And as she sings, “Been hustling for 10 years now, sho’feel like I’m ready now for my record deal!” We have a feeling she’s about to get it!