Born with an unusual name eclipsed only by her talent, Yewande (www.yewande.com) has been recognized as one of the most sought after independent artists in the world. When she first exploded onto the music scene in 2004, her socially charged brand of Alternative Soul music won over a legion of fans and critics alike. The release of her debut EP “Evolution” (Lotus Records, 2005) quickly led to appearances on MTV, BET and a coveted debut at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Performances with the likes of the Black Eyed Peas, Enrique Iglesias, Maroon 5 and Sean Paul followed soon after as she earned countless international songwriting awards and headlined concerts from the college circuit to Europe and Africa.
The world has come to know Yewande as far more than an award-winning singer/songwriter. During a nearly 5 year hiatus from the recording industry, she ignited a one woman movement across the globe as a social activist (www.changerocksfoundation.com and www.soldiersforchange.com), public speaker and even an honorary cultural ambassador to the U. S. Embassy for her commitment to using music for social change. Now, Yewande’s back to tell us stories of that journey on her highly anticipated debut album, “Rebirth” (Phoenix Records/Lotus Records, 2012). As the “First Lady of Alternative Soul” on the Phoenix Records imprint, her songs still speak unapologetic truths about issues that many artists shy away from — poverty, war, race, love — and with powerhouse vocals that hearken back to the days of Tina Turner and Pat Benatar she’ll make you a believer! Much like her progressive contemporaries — Prince, Lenny Kravitz, BOB, Black Eyed Peas, Seal, Kina — Yewande’s music continues to defy genre. “Life is colored with so many emotions — joy, loss, struggle, triumph,” she explains. “My music is simply a reflection of that raw connection we all share. It’s not about Black or White emotion, not Heterosexual, Christian or Middle Class emotion. I want to write songs that reflect the human experience!” One part story-teller, one part kick ass live band with the angst of Rock, a dash of Hip-Hop and a whole lot of Soul, “Rebirth” is a refreshing departure from formula driven artistry that so often trumps innovation. Her bold, lush new sound is like a carefully scored movie soundtrack with lyrics that reflect the journey of a lioness reborn. The target is aimed squarely at your heart and based on early response, will undoubtedly land in heavy rotation on your mP3 player!
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