Neaj PLEASE DO NOT SEND ME MESSAGES ABOUT HOOKING UP! NOT INTERESTED! - January 31 add/view comments (0) |
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Who the hell is Neaj? Neaj(NEE-AHJ)It is actually my mothers (R.I.P. Gwendolyn Jean Caldwell) middle name transposed just a lil' bit. I wanted a name that embodied both the essence of my mother who was also a singer, as well as give me the opportunity to step outside of myself and become a completely different persona. I have been singing and dancing for as long as I can remember. Whether playing a role in the school play, singing for my church choir or dancing for my childhood African dance troop, Watoto Wakumba, music has always been a huge part of my life. My parents would wake us up in the middle of the nite to "entertain" their company. Didn't yours? They would give us money for perfoming. The more cheers and claps we got, the more money that flowed our way. Even though it was 2 a.m, and I had to go to school in the morning, I didn't mind at all. In fact, I actually looked forward to it! My father & his brothers would grab their instuments & have all nite jam sessions. My father was also very instrumental in shaping my career early on even though I was unaware of it. He would put us on stage and give us lines to sing or enroll us in various workshops. My parents loved music. It was their desire to pass that same love on to their children. It worked. Those are some of the memories that I will never forget & cherish most. I know that music, and the art of creating it rules my life. It motivates my spirit and encourages my future. As much as I have tried to deny my calling, pretend that this is not who I am, music continues to be what drives me most. I now realize that..It's music, or nothing at all. I am influenced by all genres of music. Other than that, I am a REAL chic from tha Chi by way of Oakland California. I was born in Oakland, but Chicago made a shonuff woman outta me. For that reason, I consider myself as having two hometowns. I rep the Bay and Chicago. Some say, I have experienced the best of both worlds, and I completely agree. The bay is on a much deserved incline and the midwest, well, you already know Chicago don't make no junk!! I have been taking my music seriously for the last 9 years. Why the wait? Music is my passion, not a career choice. My music represents who I am on so many different levels. I wanted to be sure that my music was taken seriously. I wanted to be taken serious as a legitimate artist with a sincere love for what I do. In an industry bombarded with artists looking for a "quick" selling single, I want to have longevity in this business. I want a career that I & my family will be proud of. I am motivated by my soul and not a paycheck. It has not been an easy road for me. Nothing has been handed to me on a silver platter. All that I have accomplished so far, is accredited to my grind, my sweat, & my tears. My journey is definitely a labor of love. My walk in this life has thrown me several curve balls. Nonetheless, I am still standing, waiting for my moment. I am so thankful for my failures & trials, because without them, I would not have a testimony and no reason to continue to push even harder towards my dream!! I have done background vocals/hooks for different bay area artists, weddings, talent shows, high school graduations(including my own). I tried out for American Idol in 04', and My Grammy Moment w/ Justin Timberlake in 07'. I currently have a YouTube channel that I created to showcase my songwriting & singinging ability(Link below). I am also pleased to announce the launching of my very own clothing line called Nicole Raymond! I was blessed to be apart of 4 fashion shows in 2010 with many more to come in the future! Be on the look out for Nicole Raymond!! Are you ready for me? Holler atcha gurl.. Contact me for bookings and collaborations @ justlikethatent@live.com
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