A
manda Holley (21) of Newark, NJ is a force to
be reckoned with. Her mix of R&B, Jazz, Pop, Hip
Hop and A Capella creates a sound unique to her
soulful nature. Multitalented, Amanda not only sings
but a is trained musician. She plays the cello, violin
and piano. She has been playing instruments since
she was 2, writing songs since she was 3 and singing
at events by the age of 7.
Music comes quite naturally for Amanda as it runs
through her veins. Her dad is a notable songwriter,
writing songs for musicians such as singer Sarah
Vaughan. Her mom was a concert cellist who often
brought Amanda to sit in orchestra pits as a child.
If asked Amanda would tell you she was trained in
the womb. As if it could be any sweeter, her dad’s
sister Pat Holley (singer/songwriter) vocally trained
and mentored Stephanie Mills. Pat Holley continues
to have a significant impact on her career. Growing
up she advised Amanda to focus on jazz and theater
while connecting her with strong industry ties.
Amanda comes from a diverse background. Her
dad, who is African American, has Cherokee and
Egyptian ancestry. Her mom is has a background
of Italian, German and French in her family. Even
with such a beautiful blend of heritages, Amanda
experienced, racism growing up. For that reason
she believes that the music industry should not be
separated. “It’s silly”, she explains. Music has been
therapeutic for Amanda. Growing up, Amanda
had to overcome a number of trials and obstacles.
Even though she keeps her past private she shares,
“Everything is for a reason. Music has carried me
throughout my life. I had a crazy life but I wouldn’t
trade it for the world. In difficult times, sound waves
and messages have uplifting powers.”
Amanda writes most of her own songs, not only
just lyrics but the composition too. “I hear melodies
[in my head] all day long. I’m always adding to
my music.” She continues, “It’s just about being
creative. I’m a little bit different, I hear things
differently like unexpected chord structures. My
lyrics are influenced by poetry. I studied world-wide
poets. With poetry, you are the instrument to telling
a story.” What makes Amanda’s talent so unique
is her ability to pull inspiration by connecting the
universe around her. “I love science. When you play
a song, watch the brain activity. Turn the music
off and you will experience the same brain
wave function.”
Amanda believes the path to her success
will be her “strong melodies, strong lyrics
and being creative”. Amanda contributes her
accomplishments to the amazing individuals she
has the opportunity to work with on a daily
basis. Amanda was also mentored by
producer and arranger Dennis Doc
Williams. “He was like my uncle
and is in my family background.”
Williams is known for his work
with the O’Jays, Patti LaBelle and
Backstreet Boyz. Amanda now works
with XXL Magazine freshman class
producer Korey Laws.” She is
managed by Ralph Cooper Jr. of
the Apollo Theater. This summer
Amanda released Feenin’ an EP
by Tommy Boy Entertainment.
This collection of music is about
opening up ones passion and letting
people in. Amanda gives her audience
a chance to get to know her better.
“When I perform I feel
like I’m flying. It’s one
place I can be myself.
I’m not afraid. I’m free.
The stage is my favorite
place.”
Amanda continues to tour and perform
nationwide. Her passion doesn’t stop
short with music and poetry. When she is
not performing, Amanda involves herself in
humanitarian efforts such as kids’ causes and
United Kingdom initiatives. Its makes sense that she
is often called America’s Soulful Sweetheart.