Kanita Renee

Kanita Rene~ Since the tender age of nine, Kanita Rene Benson has grown in the ministry and gift of song. Singing was a regular pastime done by her family and was an activity that brought them together. The daughter of a minister, Kanita listened to and admired her father’s powerful singing voice that was saturated with sincere spirituality. She grew up singing in her home church, school choirs, banquets, and local talent shows. As a senior in high school, Kanita realized another God-given gift of songwriting. Since then, she has gained experience in working with a number of artists and producers helping her gain experience in her craft. While attending the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, NY, to become a fashion editor, Kanita decided to take a gigantic step of faith to leave school and work with Durrell Bottoms, established producer of groups like Boyz II Men and Voices of Theory. Durrell Bottoms, a producer who settles for nothing less than excellence, helped Kanita to grow as a singer and a songwriter. He introduced her to the up and coming sultry singing Vivian Green, and from that introduction, Kanita was given the opportunity to work with her. In that short time, Kanita learned so much from Green’s stellar writing abilities, strong vocal skills, and diligent work ethic. Kanita learned so much from Green as well as many other artists, producers, and actors including Keith Pelzer, Darren Henson, Jamar Jones, Jasmine Sullivan, Terrence Howard (Hustle & Flow), and Sharon Leal (Dreamgirls, Boston Public). Within that time period, Kanita was also introduced to Donald Robinson, a seasoned and extremely talented producer of artists such as Vanessa Williams, Grover Washington Jr., and Nancy Wilson. Donald was also tremendously instrumental in helping to develop Kanita’s gift of singing and songwriting, leading her in an opportunity to give her first live concert at Cheyney University’s Gospel Explosion. Kanita now works locally with several producers as a singer and songwriter. She also established A Song for You Productions, where she works as a Special Events Vocalist committed to enhancing momentous occassions in peoples’ lives through song. Kanita believes her call is to use her God-given gift to reach people in Christ and for Christ. Part of this confirmation came when she was given the opportunity to open up for gospel great Dottie Peoples. Ministering in that capacity and meeting Dottie, who gave Kanita advice to “always give God your best, no matter how many people are in the crowd”, changed her whole perspective. Dottie went on to say, “Because when you give God your best, He’ll give you His best”; these words Kanita will never forget. She aspires to be a successful singer/songwriter, creating music that will encourage and inspire. Kanita believes that God has placed her on this earth to exhort. Every gift and ability He has given her will be used in a lifestyle of worship. She counts it a privilege to serve God with every bone in her body, as an instrument of praise, fulfilling God’s perfect will through her. “He has put a new song in my mouth- Praise to our God; many will see it and fear, and will trust in the Lord.” -Psalm 40:3