Strings

Artist Bio - Strings aka Tateeze

Born in Chicago, Illinois in the late 70's, Tateeze gained her initial vocal performance experience in the church choir beginning at the age of eight. She continued to hone her vocal skills in the performing arts high school choir. At age 18, she attended an R Kelly concert in Oklahoma City where she made her way back stage and offered an unsolicited vocal audition. Shortly thereafter, she attended a private party where R Kelly was the featured guest and gave him a sample of her rapping skills. Her determination, persistence and unquestionable vocal and rap skills resulted in R Kelly signing her to her first label deal as a professional recording artist. Tateeze (then known as "Strings") worked in the R Kelly camp for three years where she was featured on various recordings and performed on various tours. While in the R Kelly camp she recorded her first album with Base Records / Jive which was not released.

After her three year stint with R Kelly, Tateeze was signed to a solo artist deal with Epic Records by Keith Sweat. During this period she had the privilege of working with artists such as Keith Sweat, Swiss Beats, Mannie Fresh, Rick James, Twista, The Hot Boys and others. She was a featured artist on the Gotham City Remix single that went to #1 on the charts. She recorded her second album while with Epic. Although the album was not released, she did execute a six week promotional tour throughout the U.S.

In 2002, Tateeze was signed to a record deal with Cash Money Records. During this period, she performed several features on all the "named" Cash Money artist projects, including the #1 single "Oh Yeah". Tateeze tour with the roster of artists as the "first lady" of Cash Money. Due to the events surrounding Hurricane Katrina, she was unable to complete here solo project.

Tateeze describes her rap style as "unique", "hard-core street", "brutally honest" and "melodic" (she sings as well). She is also readily described by her peers as "gifted, sexy, sensual and provocative". Although she doesn't feel that she has been influenced by any one particular rap artist in the industry, she does acknowledge that the song, "Lodi Dodi" performed by Slick Rick and Dougie Fresh inspired her to rap. She also has much respect for the work of Biggie Smalls and Jay Z. Her favorite artist for the most part are from the R & B genre; consisting of artists such as Alisha Keys, Lauren Hill, Faith Evans and Mary J. Blige.

As a personal goal, Tateeze aspires to be "that" well rounded female rap artist who has the look and the talent to thoroughly entertain her audience. She is presently seeking a solo artist deal with a well established label who will embrace and support her message and presentation.