SONJI

Sonji Mickey, is a native of Hazel Crest Ill and was born and raised in the south suburbs of Chicago. At the age of 10 she knew that singing would be her vibe when she sang her first solo at church. Inspired by her cousin, Valorie Marshall, who was cast in the hit Broadway musical “Mama I want to sing” she went on to participate in talent shows where she sang and dance. Ms. Mickey initially launched her musical career by singing a medley of songs for Kashif, Melba Moore, and Lilo Thomas live in a studio recording session. Also, she was an opening act for R&B sensation, Alexander O’Neal in New York. Destined to learn the ins and outs of the music industry she has traveled with R&B recording artist, Keith Sweat and jazz saxophonist, Najee who provided tutor ledge and mentoring. During this time she acquired skills and knowledge that proved to be infinite. Sonji Mickey, then known as “Precious Red” made her debut with the smash hit, “Think” (It Takes 2 to Make a Thing Alright), which is a remake of Lynn Collins 70’s Hit Produced by Farley Jackmaster of Funk. Ms. Mickey moved to Atlanta over 12 years ago and since that time has worked with renowned Rap Artists, such as, MC Breed, DFC, 211, MC Brainz, Kizzy Rock, Mean Green, Too Short, Eric Sermon, Outkast, the “King of Funk” George Clinton, R&B legend Bobby Womack, Hip-Hop/R&B trio TLC, Rap stars 3RE the Hardway, Alternative Soul diva Joi, R&B group sensation Lucy Pearl, Parliament (The Original P’s), “The Wood” Soundtrack and the Side Hustlers album with (UGK) Underground Kingz, Keith Murray, Jazze’ Pha , David Banner, Keshia Cole, and the Gospel great Luther Barnes , also Featured on the Southern Soul Singer Omar Cunningham song called "I'm Sorry", and the Legendary Willie Clayton. Done background vocals with Natalie Cole for her new up and coming project. As a result of working with such artists Ms. Mickey has obtained notable recognition from Double Platinum recording artists, Outkast for the album, “Aquemini”, “The Wood” Soundtrack (UGK) Underground Kingz, and Too Short’s “Bad Ways” Attributing her success to those who have inspired her throughout her lifetime include the “Queen of Soul”, Aretha Franklin, R&B Songsters, Anita Baker, Phyllis Hyman and Gladys Knight, R&B/Soul Stirrer Mavis Staples and Gospel Great Shirley Caesar, the “Don” of R&B, Gerald Levert, R&B Soul Captivators, Sam Cook, Marvin Gaye and Al Green other favorite artists include Carl Thomas and Joe. Aspiring to broaden her horizons in the entertainment industry Ms. Mickey made her debut as a choral coordinator and vocalist in the Gospel Hip-Hop production, “Rise”. It was written and directed by Christopher “Play” Martin from the multi-platinum Rap group Kid ‘N Play and Cheryl “Salt” James the original diva from the multi-platinum Rap group “Salt N Pepa. Allan Houston’s H2O Production Company produced “Rise”. Also was featured in a Gospel play called “Till Death Do Us Part” It was written and directed by Palmer Williams Jr. Ms. Mickey is energetic and versatile with her vocal talent and is well noted for lacing hooks with rappers adding that extra special flava to a rappers delight. Primarily concentrating on Country Rap tunes, Hip-Hop, and R&B she will embrace her old landmark, Inspirational Gospel. Defining the heart and soul of the music genre. Also, she will soon be releasing her solo debut album entitled “God Can”. Inspired by one of Andrae Crouch’s gospel songs. It expresses the sentiments of why Ms. Mickey has chosen to sing Inspirational Gospel. Take Me Back, dear Lord to the place where I first received you, and where I first believed. It is my belief that our Creator has endowed me to sing his praises that shall ring out infinite melodies and save souls throughout the world.