If the Unites States is the land of opportunity Bekele is on her way to achieve the American dream. This beautiful half Russian, half Ethiopian singer (the Black Russian) was born in the Ukraine and came to Maryland with her mother at the age of 10. As an immigrant who spoke no English and forced to live in a homeless shelter her only escape was a CD player and The Preacher’s Wife Soundtrack. It is at this time of struggle that her love for music and the desire to be a singer were first born. But growing up she knew that in order to make her dream a reality she would have to move to New York City. So, at 17 she applied to Columbia University and was miraculously accepted. While there, she interned at Epic Records and through a mutual friend met the Multi Platinum Grammy Award Winning Producer, Andreao "Fanatic" Heard (Michael Jackson, Beyonce, Notorious B.I.G.). He immediately recognized Bekele's superstar qualities and began to develop her singing and songwriting talents, which is when he produced her smash hit "So Many Boys". With the demo completed Bekele decided to focus on the imagery and performance aspects of the project and so she created The Boys. They are two female back up dancers dressed as men, who are featured in Bekele's press photos, stage shows, music videos as well as part of her entourage at public appearances. The cross dressing idea behind The Boys was inspired by 1940's burlesque shows, during which all female troupes performed musical skits playing both male and female characters. With the addition of the The Boys as well as the provocative/gender-bending fashion, sassy lyrics and theatrical, over the top stage shows Bekele strives to empower girls by celebrating the strength, intelligence and sexuality of women everywhere. So, do not mistake Bekele for just another pretty "pop girl". Everything she does, from her music to her image, is provocative yet witty, creative and carries a message, which is why Bekele will take the music industry by storm and redefine pop music.
