Let's be clear, Natalie Jean is an award-winning singer-songwriter and performer with a gifted voice. You can feel every note when she sings. But did you know that Natalie can also sing in French, Spanish, and Creole? That is just one of the many surprises when it comes to this rising star and a good reason why she's one to watch in the new year. Unlike most modern artists, Natalie started her career by writing poetry. However, realizing early on that music was her true passion, she found herself melding poetry into song. In April of 2013, Natalie released her first CD entitled Obsession. If you frequented the hip quarters of Washington DC, you might have found Natalie performing at spots like French Embassy, Takoma Station, Ebenezers Coffeehouse, Twins Jazz, Mad Momos or the Pinch. Since the release of her debut album, she has begun to write and perform in many different genres such as rap, country, dance and heavy metal. So it appears that fans of Natalie's new single 'Through With You' have caught only a narrow glimpse of this artist's true repertoire and range. Reporter Andrew Edwards recently caught up with Natalie Jean to learn more about this rising star, her musical inspirations and plans for the future.

ANDREW: When When did you first discover your love of music?
NATALIE: As a little girl, I used to sing with my father, Guy R. Jean, in our home. We also used to love to watch all of the Elvis Presley movies. My music has always been a passion of mine. I love to dance and I love the way it makes me feel and how it can move others.

ANDREW: Your song has received a strong listener response on radio. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
NATALIE: I couldn’t believe that this was happening to me and one of my songs. It is an amazing experience to know that something that you have worked so hard for is being presented to the world and the listeners like it.

ANDREW: What was the inspiration behind your debut radio single?
NATALIE: ‘Through with You’ is based on a relationship that I experienced. The man had two faces- one where he was a doting boyfriend and nice guy, and the other where he basically chased every skirt in town.

ANDREW: Would you say that the mood of your other songs is in the same vein as your debut radio single?
NATALIE: No, but I would say that the mood of my other songs are about finding and being in love, and wanting to please your partner

ANDREW: How would you characterize yourself as a musician? (ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving...)
NATALIE: As a musician, I am very down-to-earth and very fun-loving. When I perform, I just let the energy in the room move me.

ANDREW: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
NATALIE: My father is a famous Haitian singer, Guy R. Jean and my aunt Sandra Jean is also a famous Haitian singer. My cousin Moses Jean is a very talented music producer.

ANDREW: What do you find most rewarding about being a musician? What do you find most challenging?
NATALIE: The most rewarding aspect of the music industry is meeting people from all around the world. I have made lasting friendships and plan on collaborating with some of them as well. The challenging aspect of the music industry is to really be aware of the scams out there. I have had my fair share. So, I am extremely cautious of who I do business with.

ANDREW: Who are your role models in music?
NATALIE: My role models are Celine Dion, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holliday, and Lena Horne.

ANDREW: Describe your best or most memorable performance.
NATALIE: My most memorable performance would be my recent CD Release party. There are those that attended that have known me since childhood and they were amazed and shocked that I could sing. Also, we had an amazing bongo player. It was a very fun and exciting night.

ANDREW: Do you have a music video for your hit single? If so, what can you tell us about it?
NATALIE: Currently, I don’t have a video for that single. I am working on one.

ANDREW: Wonderful! I look forward to hearing it. Thanks for taking time out to share your story with me. I wish you good luck and continued success!

http://www.natalie-jean.com

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