Belle. No wonder the word means "beautiful" in French. The adjective truly describes Ms Johnson's persona. No matter the environment the singer/songwriter exudes that certain glow which draws attention to those who were destined to be stars.Daughter of a gospel quartet singer and dancer, the Los Angeles native was bred in a constant musical environment. Under the tutelage of her father, "Big Henry" Johnson of The Five Blind Boys of Mississippi, the foundation for her musical journey was laid. Armed with a natural, dynamic voice, Belle began perfecting her craft at various showcases and concerts, sharing the stage with artists such as Tyrese, Ray-J or his sister Brandy. Drawing comparisons from the latter to Beyonce, Belle lists the likes of Patti Labelle, Whitney Houston and Celine Dion as some of her influences. It's not a coincidence that all three have enjoyed massive, crossover success.After making an appearance on the hit TV show "Full House" when she was 12, she guest starred on "The Vanessa Williams Christmas Special" with Bebe & Cece Winans, Peabo Bryson and Ms Williams herself. At 14 she landed a role in the independent "Sam Cooke Story," which turned out to be a great experience in the world of acting, an art to which she's always been drawn in parallel to her obvious predisposition for music.Back in the studio she started collaborating with a stream of hit producers, among which Randy Jackson, former music director for Mariah Carey and President of A&R at MCA before he became a household name on "American Idol." According to John "Jay" Mitchell, producer/songwriter for artists like Mariah Carey, Dionne Farris and Fiona Apple, "Belle's talent is unmatched."What makes her special and different from the myriad of female singers currently on the charts is first and foremost her amazing ability to write lyrics and melodies that are catchy and universal. Although no artist usually likes labels, Belle refuses even more categorically to be tagged with one, as her emotions and life experiences can resonate with those of any young woman today. Her musical gift and sensibility make her equally responsive to and eager to write epic, Pop ballads as well as uptempo songs, which is why global artists such as Christina Aguilera, Lauryn Hill and Eric Benet have enlisted her services as a background singer during recent world tours and performances. Singing in stadiums has given Belle an opportunity to exercise her compelling charm in front of thousands of people, an experience she's found to be quite empowering.Lately the caramel songstress and her supporting vocals can also be heard on the "American Idol Encore Season 5" album. "Her voice is immaculate," says vocal coach to the stars Seth Riggs. With her charismatic presence, infectious smile and fun-loving energy, Belle has also recently started to model, making her a singing, acting and modeling triple threat. "Walking the path of a role model I intend to show young women that beauty is universal," the young sensation declares. Belle is currently putting together a collection of songs for her debut album, while getting song placements with artists such as the new, boy-group sensation I15 signed to Interscope Records. Whether she's lighting up the stage, the screen, evoking emotion with her lyrics or enchanting audiences with her vocal chops, Belle is on an accelerating journey in the spotlight. Boasting a strong work ethic and desire to succeed, she's ready to ignite and leave her mark in history.[LOVEMYFLASH]
