Taranda Renee’

"The toughest thing about success is that you've got to keep on being a success. Talent is only a starting point in this business. You've got to keep working on that talent."-Irving Berlin These are words that songstress Taranda Smalley has come to live by as a motto for success. Taranda Renee Smalley was born in Augusta, Georgia to parents Anthony Smalley and the late Sharon F. Smalley on July 19, 1986. A few years later after birth the young and energetic child realized that she was born to perform, entertain, and was destined to be a star. Although never professionally trained, Taranda quickly developed a passion for singing, dancing, and performing for audiences. She participated in many local and school talent showcases, sung in the church choir as well as the school chorus. Taranda also displayed her love and talent for dancing as captain of the "Platinum Dancers" at her high school from 2000-2004. She was also a member of the "Hazel Sullivan Striggles Praise Team" at Servants of God Baptist Church, praise dancing at manycommunity churches for guest events. At the age of 14, Taranda realized that she had a gift for songwriting in addition to singing and dancing. She began using songwriting as an escape from problems that arose during her adolescent years. She had many inspirational influences who helped mold her as an R&B artist. To name a few, Beyonce Knowles, Aaliyah, and Mariah Carey had the greatest impact on Taranda as an artist amd helped increase her drive and determination for stardom. The aspiring performer has dreams and goals of becoming as big if not bigger than the world renowned artists mentioned above. One may ask, "What seperates Taranda from current female R&B artists?" Well glad u asked, the answer is her passion for music and performing as well as her strong willed attitude and determination to be successful in this business. Taranda wants to be a positive influence towards the youth around the world, so is willing to work as hard as it takes to make her dream a reality by any means necessary. "Keeping your desire alive in your mind is equivalent to them being on life support. For your desires to manifest themselves into reality you need to breathe life into them. You need to feed and nurture them" Another quote that Taranda has found inspirational during her pursuit of success. In her own words, Taranda states "Everone was placed on Earth with a purpose and mission in lfe, mine is to sings, dance, perform, entertain, and inspire. I know deep down in my heart that this is my calling so I will overcome any obstacles or stumbling blocks placed along my path to success. I am a STAR!!!" So what else is there left to say about this future superstar that is on the rise? Nothing except, look out world because here she comes!