Sy Smith
Encyclopedia
Sy Olivia Smith is an American Emmy nominated singer-songwriter. Born in New York
, New York
, Smith rose to fame in the late 1990s when she signed a recording contract with Hollywood Records
. Smith released her first studio album Psykosoul
in 2000, which spawned the singles "Gladly" and "Good N Strong". Following the release of her first album, Smith left Hollywood
. She often referred to as The Underground Queen of R&B and Soul.
In 2004, Smith had signed another recording contract with Kajmere Records. Later that year, Smith appeared in the independent film, Black Rose. In early 2005, she began her own recording label known as Psyko! Inc. In mid-2005, Smith earned a NAACP Theatre Award
nomination for her role in the film, If You Don't Believe: A Love Story. In September 2005, Smith released her second album The Syberspace Social
, which spawned the three singles "Fa' Sho", "Aquarius Rising", and "Drop That". In 2006, Smith received a NAACP Theatre Award
nomination for her role in the film, Body Language. Later that year, she released a single "Fill in the Blanks". While embarking on her tour in 2007, Sy Smith released her first live DVD Sy Smith Live: Worship At The Temple
, recorded live at Temple Bar
in Santa Monica
, California
.
In 2008, Smith released her third studio album, Conflict
, with the lead single "Fly Away With Me
". The single charted at #38 on the Top 40 Hot Adult R&B Chart. In September 2009, Smith released her second single "Conflict". In early 2009, Smith released the third single "Spies". With album finally creating a buzz, Smith released two other singles "B-Side Love Affair" and "The Art of You". In 2010, Smith released a single "Truth", followed by her best-of album Syberselects: A Collection of Sy Smith Favorites. In January 2011, Sy Smith and Mark de Clive-Lowe recorded a version of Teena Marie's 1984 hit "Lovergirl
and Smith went on the "Authencity Tour" with the Foreign Exchange. In February 2011, Mark de Clive-Lowe announced plans to release "MdCL + Sy Smith: Collection Vol. 1
". In March 2011, Smith went on the "Sunstorm Tour" with ZO!.
with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and a minor in music therapy, she moved to Los Angeles, CA. She soon charted territory singing backup for Usher
, Eric Benet
, Me'Shell NdegeOcello
, Ginuwine
, Brandy
, and spending more than a year on the road with Whitney Houston
. Among it all, Smith made appearances in GAP advertisements, as well as being a regular fixture behind Vonda Shepard
on the FOX
television show Ally McBeal
.
. In mid-2000, Smith released the third single "That Ring".
In 2001, Smith was dropped from Hollywood Records
. She has since written for Santana, sung backup for Whitney Houston and with Vonda Shepard on "Ally McBeal," and contributed vocals to commercials for The Gap, Procter & Gamble and Nissan. After talking to the proprietors of a coffee shop in Los Angeles' Leimert Park neighborhood, Smith established B!tchcraft in 2001. The monthly showcase ran for nearly two years. The showcase featured three to four female acts, unsigned and signed singers, and comedians. Between releases, Sy served as sometime lead singer for British funk outfit Brand New Heavies
on their album We Won't Stop. In 2001, Smith released the lead single "Welcome Back (All My Soulmates)", which later received a Emmy nomination for "Outstanding Music and Lyrics". In 2002, she released her extended play, One Like Me.
's Soul Sessions. In September 2005, Smith released her second album, The Syberspace Social
. The album featured contributions from R&B
singer Anthony Hamilton
and producers such as James Poyser
and Victor Duplaix. In late 2005, Smith released the second single "Drop That". In December 2005, Smith released a deluxe edition of her first album entitled, Psykosoul Plus
. The compilation album featured three addition songs.
In February 2006, Smith released "Aquarius Rising" as the third single. Sy Smith, along with Sharlotte Gibson and Kenya Hathaway, have been highly visible as featured background singers on American Idol
. Smith also appeared on The Article 3, a 2006 EP release from bass guitar impresario Me'Shell NdegeOcello
in addition to opening for the artist. In mid-2006, Smith released fourth single "Turnstyles" and another single "Fill in the Blanks", which was featured on the Airpushers' Themes for the Ordinarily Strange. In 2007, Smith released a deluxe edition of her second album, The Syberspace Social
. The album featured two additions songs. While embarking on her tour in 2007, Sy Smith released her first live DVD Sy Smith Live: Worship At The Temple
, recorded live at Temple Bar
in Santa Monica
, California
.
, with "Fly Away With Me
" as the lead single. The song "Fly Away With Me
" charted at #38 on the Top 40 Hot Adult R&B Chart. In September 2008, Smith and her band Deeznuts performed at Temple Bar's Farewell Show. Smith performed a seven track set-list. She also released the title-track "Conflict" as the second single and the music video premiered at Temple Bar. In late-2008, Smith's album Conflict
received a "Album of the Year" nomination from Soultracks.
In February 2009, Smith released the third single "Spies", and the music video aired on Logo
. The music video also features the cast of TV-series Noah's Arc. In 2009, she made a guest performance at the Live in Boston show of Chris Botti
where she sang the Burt Bacharach classic "The Look of Love
". She also features on the DVD release of this concert and is seen in his tour in Europe. Sy Smith also serves as the voice actor of Aisha in the video game Saints Row
and Saint's Row 2. As Aisha, she recorded three tracks for the game's soundtrack. Sy Smith's "The Art Of You" appears on Independent Soul Divas 2 on UK label, Lola Waxx. In mid-2009, Smith released the fourth single "B-Side Love Affair" and the music video aired to YouTube. In June 2009, Smith toured with the singers Yahzarah
, Conya Doss
, and Maya Azucena
on the Soulsista Tour. She later appeared on Fox DC to promote her new single "The Art of You". In July 2009, Smith toured with Conya Doss
, Yahzarah
, and Ra-Re Valverde on the Soul Uprising Tour.
to perform her single Fly Away With Me
and promote her album Conflict
. Smith is planning to release an new project in 2010. In July 2010, Smith went on tour with Mark de Clive-Lowe. On August 5, 2010, she performed at the special event "Summer Concert Series" at "Baldwin Hill Censhaw Plaza" in Los Angeles
, California
. In mid-August 2010, Smith released a single "Truth" to iTunes. In October 2010, Smith received a Soultrack Readers Choice Award "Song of the Year" nomination for her song "Greatest Weapon of all Time". On October 26, 2010, Smith released her best of album, "SyberSelects: A Collection of Sy Smith Favorites". In 2010, Smith began the recording sessions for her fourth album.
In December 2010, Smith confirmed in an interview, that she will be doing a jazz album. Smith stated, "I’m kind of closing the book on that part of me for a second, so I can embrace other things that I really want to do. I’m working on a jazz record that’s more straight-ahead kind of jazz. I’m working to finish this synthy '80s throwback dance record...".
In January 2011, Sy Smith and Mark de Clive-Lowe recorded a version of Teena Marie's 1984 hit "Lovergirl
and went on the "Authencity Tour" with the Foreign Exchange. In February 2011, Mark de Clive-Lowe announced to release a "MdCL + Sy Smith: Collection Vol. 1
". In March 2011, Smith went on the "Sunstorm Tour" with ZO!.
with a whistle register
as demonstrated in her songs "Fly Away With Me", "Star", and "Deep Sleep". Smith's whistle tone has closely been compared to Minnie Riperton
's whistle tone who has displayed this in a live version of Minnie Riperton's song "Baby, This Love I Have". While Smith has been known for her high-pitched vocals, she can also sing in an alto
range.
, Diana Ross
, and James Brown
. Although Sy Smith has done many R&B influenced songs, her primary musical style is heavily influenced by go-go and funk
music. Smith has also influenced musical artists such as E Reece, N'Dambi, and other well-known singers.
style usually accompanied by flower. Aside from her stage presence, Smith prefers mostly to sing close to microphone on the stand.
as the restaurant singer. In 2004, Smith received a minor role in The Seat Filler
as Fitz (VJ). Later that year, Smith starred as Rose in the independent film Black Rose. In 2005, she also appeared in the film If You Don't Believe: A Love Story. In 2006, she appeared in Body Language as the supporting role "Holt". Smith was nominated in 2005 and 2006 for a NAACP Theatre Award as Best Supporting Female-Local for her role in If You Don't Believe: A Love Story and Body Language.
, N'dambi
, Raheem DeVaughn
, Conya Doss
, Ledisi
, and E Reece
. She is first cousins with Mark Whitfield
.
Video Releases
singer Sy Smith.
New York
New York is a state in the Northeastern region of the United States. It is the nation's third most populous state. New York is bordered by New Jersey and Pennsylvania to the south, and by Connecticut, Massachusetts and Vermont to the east...
, New York
New York
New York is a state in the Northeastern region of the United States. It is the nation's third most populous state. New York is bordered by New Jersey and Pennsylvania to the south, and by Connecticut, Massachusetts and Vermont to the east...
, Smith rose to fame in the late 1990s when she signed a recording contract with Hollywood Records
Hollywood Records
Hollywood Records is an American record label owned by Disney Music Group, a subsidiary of the Walt Disney Company.-History:Hollywood Records was founded in 1989 by then-Disney CEO Michael Eisner with the idea of expanding the music operations of the company and to develop and promote...
. Smith released her first studio album Psykosoul
Psykosoul
Psykosoul is the first studio album by R&B/neo soul singer/songwriter Sy Smith, released in 2000 on Hollywood Records. The critically acclaimed album included the singles "Gladly" and "Good N'Strong," as well as a standout cover of Edie Brickell's "What I Am" which also made an appearance on the...
in 2000, which spawned the singles "Gladly" and "Good N Strong". Following the release of her first album, Smith left Hollywood
Hollywood Records
Hollywood Records is an American record label owned by Disney Music Group, a subsidiary of the Walt Disney Company.-History:Hollywood Records was founded in 1989 by then-Disney CEO Michael Eisner with the idea of expanding the music operations of the company and to develop and promote...
. She often referred to as The Underground Queen of R&B and Soul.
In 2004, Smith had signed another recording contract with Kajmere Records. Later that year, Smith appeared in the independent film, Black Rose. In early 2005, she began her own recording label known as Psyko! Inc. In mid-2005, Smith earned a NAACP Theatre Award
NAACP Theatre Awards
The NAACP Theatre Awards is an award presented annually by the Beverly Hills-Hollywood branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People to honor outstanding people of color in theatre....
nomination for her role in the film, If You Don't Believe: A Love Story. In September 2005, Smith released her second album The Syberspace Social
The Syberspace Social
The Syberspace Social is the independent debut of R&B/neo-soul singer/songwriter Sy Smith. The critically acclaimed album featured production by James Poyser and Victor Duplaix...
, which spawned the three singles "Fa' Sho", "Aquarius Rising", and "Drop That". In 2006, Smith received a NAACP Theatre Award
NAACP Theatre Awards
The NAACP Theatre Awards is an award presented annually by the Beverly Hills-Hollywood branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People to honor outstanding people of color in theatre....
nomination for her role in the film, Body Language. Later that year, she released a single "Fill in the Blanks". While embarking on her tour in 2007, Sy Smith released her first live DVD Sy Smith Live: Worship At The Temple
Sy Smith Live: Worship at the Temple
Sy Smith Live: Worship At The Temple is a live DVD by American R&B singer Sy Smith that was released in the US in 2007.-About the Show:On December 30, 2006, Sy Smith performed a live show at Santa Monica, California's Temple Bar. Accompanied by a 9-piece band, Smith performed a total of 9 songs...
, recorded live at Temple Bar
Temple Bar
Temple Bar may refer to:* The Temple Bar, a spot in London* Temple Bar, Dublin, a cultural quarter in Dublin city* Temple Bar, Ceredigion, a village in Wales* Temple Bar Magazine, British literary magazine published 1860 to 1906...
in Santa Monica
Santa Mônica
Santa Mônica is a town and municipality in the state of Paraná in the Southern Region of Brazil.-References:...
, California
California
California is a state located on the West Coast of the United States. It is by far the most populous U.S. state, and the third-largest by land area...
.
In 2008, Smith released her third studio album, Conflict
Conflict (album)
Conflict is the third studio album by American R&B/soul singer, Sy Smith. The album was officially released on April 1, 2008, in United States.-Recording:...
, with the lead single "Fly Away With Me
Fly Away With Me
"Fly Away With Me" is a song recorded by American singer-songwriter Sy Smith. It was written by Sy Smith and Kay of the Foundation, and produced by Ty Macklin for Smith's third solo album, Conflict.-Overview:...
". The single charted at #38 on the Top 40 Hot Adult R&B Chart. In September 2009, Smith released her second single "Conflict". In early 2009, Smith released the third single "Spies". With album finally creating a buzz, Smith released two other singles "B-Side Love Affair" and "The Art of You". In 2010, Smith released a single "Truth", followed by her best-of album Syberselects: A Collection of Sy Smith Favorites. In January 2011, Sy Smith and Mark de Clive-Lowe recorded a version of Teena Marie's 1984 hit "Lovergirl
Lovergirl
"Lovergirl" is the first single from Teena Marie's 1984 album, Starchild. The song became Marie's biggest hit, peaking at #4 on the Billboard Hot 100. She wrote and produced the song....
and Smith went on the "Authencity Tour" with the Foreign Exchange. In February 2011, Mark de Clive-Lowe announced plans to release "MdCL + Sy Smith: Collection Vol. 1
MdCL + Sy Smith: Collection Vol. 1
MdCL + Sy Smith: Collection Vol. 1 is the first collaborative album of R&B singer Sy Smith and deejay/producer Mark de Clive-Lowe. The album is expected to be released in mid-2011.-Background:...
". In March 2011, Smith went on the "Sunstorm Tour" with ZO!.
1990-95: Early life and career beginnings
Sy Smith began her career leading an all-female Washington, DC go-go band. After graduating from Howard UniversityHoward University
Howard University is a federally chartered, non-profit, private, coeducational, nonsectarian, historically black university located in Washington, D.C., United States...
with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and a minor in music therapy, she moved to Los Angeles, CA. She soon charted territory singing backup for Usher
Usher (entertainer)
Usher Terry Raymond IV , who performs under the mononym Usher, is an American singer-songwriter, and actor. He is considered around the world to be the reigning King of R&B. Usher rose to fame in the late 1990s with the release of his second album My Way, which spawned his first Billboard Hot 100...
, Eric Benet
Eric Benét
Eric Benét, is an American singer. His duet with Tamia, "Spend My Life With You" was a number one song for three weeks on the US Billboard R&B chart and was nominated for a Grammy Award in 2000....
, Me'Shell NdegeOcello
Me'shell Ndegeocello
Meshell Ndegeocello is an American singer-songwriter, rapper, bassist, and vocalist. Her music incorporates a wide variety of influences, including funk, soul, hip hop, reggae, R&B, rock, and jazz. She has received significant critical acclaim throughout her career, and has had ten career Grammy...
, Ginuwine
Ginuwine
Elgin Baylor Lumpkin , better known by his stage name Ginuwine is an American singer-songwriter and actor. Signed to Epic Records since the mid-1990s, Ginuwine had released a number of multi-platinum and platinum-selling albums and singles, becoming one of R&B's top artists during the late 1990's...
, Brandy
Brandy Norwood
Brandy Rayana Norwood , known professionally as Brandy, is an American singer-songwriter, producer, actress, and dancer. In 2009, she introduced her rap alter-ego Bran'Nu....
, and spending more than a year on the road with Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston
Whitney Elizabeth Houston is an American singer, actress, producer and a former model. Houston is the most awarded female act of all time, according to Guinness World Records, and her list of awards include 1 Emmy Award, 6 Grammy Awards, 30 Billboard Music Awards, 22 American Music Awards, among...
. Among it all, Smith made appearances in GAP advertisements, as well as being a regular fixture behind Vonda Shepard
Vonda Shepard
Vonda Shepard is an American pop/rock singer. She appeared as a regular in the television show Ally McBeal from seasons 1-5 in which she played a resident performer at the bar where the show's characters drank after work. She plays piano, guitar, and bass.-Biography:Vonda Shepard was born in New...
on the FOX
Fox Broadcasting Company
Fox Broadcasting Company, commonly referred to as Fox Network or simply Fox , is an American commercial broadcasting television network owned by Fox Entertainment Group, part of Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation. Launched on October 9, 1986, Fox was the highest-rated broadcast network in the...
television show Ally McBeal
Ally McBeal
Ally McBeal is an American legal comedy-drama series which aired on the Fox network from 1997 to 2002. The series was created by David E. Kelley, who also served as the executive producer, along with Bill D'Elia...
.
1999-2003: Psykosoul and departure from Hollywood Records
Smith moved to L.A. in 1997 and signed with Hollywood Records in 1999. Later that year, she released her first single "Gladly", which charted at #79 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. In early 2000, Smith released the second single "Good N Strong". In April 2000, Smith released her first album, PsykosoulPsykosoul
Psykosoul is the first studio album by R&B/neo soul singer/songwriter Sy Smith, released in 2000 on Hollywood Records. The critically acclaimed album included the singles "Gladly" and "Good N'Strong," as well as a standout cover of Edie Brickell's "What I Am" which also made an appearance on the...
. In mid-2000, Smith released the third single "That Ring".
In 2001, Smith was dropped from Hollywood Records
Hollywood Records
Hollywood Records is an American record label owned by Disney Music Group, a subsidiary of the Walt Disney Company.-History:Hollywood Records was founded in 1989 by then-Disney CEO Michael Eisner with the idea of expanding the music operations of the company and to develop and promote...
. She has since written for Santana, sung backup for Whitney Houston and with Vonda Shepard on "Ally McBeal," and contributed vocals to commercials for The Gap, Procter & Gamble and Nissan. After talking to the proprietors of a coffee shop in Los Angeles' Leimert Park neighborhood, Smith established B!tchcraft in 2001. The monthly showcase ran for nearly two years. The showcase featured three to four female acts, unsigned and signed singers, and comedians. Between releases, Sy served as sometime lead singer for British funk outfit Brand New Heavies
Brand New Heavies
The Brand New Heavies are an acid jazz and funk group formed in 1985 in Ealing, a suburb of London, England.-Biography:The Brand New Heavies began in the 1980s as an instrumental acid jazz group called Brother International....
on their album We Won't Stop. In 2001, Smith released the lead single "Welcome Back (All My Soulmates)", which later received a Emmy nomination for "Outstanding Music and Lyrics". In 2002, she released her extended play, One Like Me.
2004-2007: The Syberspace Social
In 2004, Smith signed a recording contract with Kajmere Records and began recording her second album. In early 2005, Smith began her own recording company, Psyko! Inc. In early 2005, Smith released the first single "Fa'Sho", which aired on BETBet
Bet or BET may refer to:* A wager in gambling* Basic Economics Test * Bet , the second letter in many Semitic alphabets, including Aramaic, Hebrew, Phoenician and Syriac* Brunauer-Emmett-Teller isotherm. See BET_theory...
's Soul Sessions. In September 2005, Smith released her second album, The Syberspace Social
The Syberspace Social
The Syberspace Social is the independent debut of R&B/neo-soul singer/songwriter Sy Smith. The critically acclaimed album featured production by James Poyser and Victor Duplaix...
. The album featured contributions from R&B
Contemporary R&B
Contemporary R&B is a music genre that combines elements of hip hop, soul, R&B and funk.Although the abbreviation “R&B” originates from traditional rhythm and blues music, today the term R&B is most often used to describe a style of African American music originating after the demise of disco in...
singer Anthony Hamilton
Anthony Hamilton (musician)
Anthony Hamilton is an American R&B, and soul singer-songwriter, and record producer who rose to fame with his platinum-selling second studio album Comin' from Where I'm From , which featured the singles "Comin' from Where I'm From" and "Charlene."-Life and career:Hamilton was born in Charlotte,...
and producers such as James Poyser
James Poyser
James Poyser in Sheffield, England is a multi-Grammy winning songwriter, musician and multi-platinum producer.Poyser has written and produced songs for various legendary and award-winning artists including Erykah Badu, Mariah Carey, John Legend, Lauryn Hill, Common, Anthony Hamilton, D'Angelo,...
and Victor Duplaix. In late 2005, Smith released the second single "Drop That". In December 2005, Smith released a deluxe edition of her first album entitled, Psykosoul Plus
Psykosoul
Psykosoul is the first studio album by R&B/neo soul singer/songwriter Sy Smith, released in 2000 on Hollywood Records. The critically acclaimed album included the singles "Gladly" and "Good N'Strong," as well as a standout cover of Edie Brickell's "What I Am" which also made an appearance on the...
. The compilation album featured three addition songs.
In February 2006, Smith released "Aquarius Rising" as the third single. Sy Smith, along with Sharlotte Gibson and Kenya Hathaway, have been highly visible as featured background singers on American Idol
American Idol
American Idol, titled American Idol: The Search for a Superstar for the first season, is a reality television singing competition created by Simon Fuller and produced by FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment...
. Smith also appeared on The Article 3, a 2006 EP release from bass guitar impresario Me'Shell NdegeOcello
Me'shell Ndegeocello
Meshell Ndegeocello is an American singer-songwriter, rapper, bassist, and vocalist. Her music incorporates a wide variety of influences, including funk, soul, hip hop, reggae, R&B, rock, and jazz. She has received significant critical acclaim throughout her career, and has had ten career Grammy...
in addition to opening for the artist. In mid-2006, Smith released fourth single "Turnstyles" and another single "Fill in the Blanks", which was featured on the Airpushers' Themes for the Ordinarily Strange. In 2007, Smith released a deluxe edition of her second album, The Syberspace Social
The Syberspace Social
The Syberspace Social is the independent debut of R&B/neo-soul singer/songwriter Sy Smith. The critically acclaimed album featured production by James Poyser and Victor Duplaix...
. The album featured two additions songs. While embarking on her tour in 2007, Sy Smith released her first live DVD Sy Smith Live: Worship At The Temple
Sy Smith Live: Worship at the Temple
Sy Smith Live: Worship At The Temple is a live DVD by American R&B singer Sy Smith that was released in the US in 2007.-About the Show:On December 30, 2006, Sy Smith performed a live show at Santa Monica, California's Temple Bar. Accompanied by a 9-piece band, Smith performed a total of 9 songs...
, recorded live at Temple Bar
Temple Bar
Temple Bar may refer to:* The Temple Bar, a spot in London* Temple Bar, Dublin, a cultural quarter in Dublin city* Temple Bar, Ceredigion, a village in Wales* Temple Bar Magazine, British literary magazine published 1860 to 1906...
in Santa Monica
Santa Mônica
Santa Mônica is a town and municipality in the state of Paraná in the Southern Region of Brazil.-References:...
, California
California
California is a state located on the West Coast of the United States. It is by far the most populous U.S. state, and the third-largest by land area...
.
2007-2009: Conflict
In mid-2007, Smith released a buzz single "Ain't Nobody's Bizness". In late 2007, Smith released another buzz single "Reach Down In Your Soul", which featured Wes Felton. Smith also released a music video for the song. In April 2008, Smith released her third studio album, ConflictConflict (album)
Conflict is the third studio album by American R&B/soul singer, Sy Smith. The album was officially released on April 1, 2008, in United States.-Recording:...
, with "Fly Away With Me
Fly Away With Me
"Fly Away With Me" is a song recorded by American singer-songwriter Sy Smith. It was written by Sy Smith and Kay of the Foundation, and produced by Ty Macklin for Smith's third solo album, Conflict.-Overview:...
" as the lead single. The song "Fly Away With Me
Fly Away With Me
"Fly Away With Me" is a song recorded by American singer-songwriter Sy Smith. It was written by Sy Smith and Kay of the Foundation, and produced by Ty Macklin for Smith's third solo album, Conflict.-Overview:...
" charted at #38 on the Top 40 Hot Adult R&B Chart. In September 2008, Smith and her band Deeznuts performed at Temple Bar's Farewell Show. Smith performed a seven track set-list. She also released the title-track "Conflict" as the second single and the music video premiered at Temple Bar. In late-2008, Smith's album Conflict
Conflict (album)
Conflict is the third studio album by American R&B/soul singer, Sy Smith. The album was officially released on April 1, 2008, in United States.-Recording:...
received a "Album of the Year" nomination from Soultracks.
In February 2009, Smith released the third single "Spies", and the music video aired on Logo
Logo (TV channel)
Logo is an American digital cable television channel owned by Viacom's MTV Networks division. Launched in June 2005, the channel's programs are geared towards the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community...
. The music video also features the cast of TV-series Noah's Arc. In 2009, she made a guest performance at the Live in Boston show of Chris Botti
Chris Botti
Christopher Stephen "Chris" Botti , is an American trumpeter and composer. In 2007, Botti was nominated for two Grammy Awards including Best Pop Instrumental Album. On December 4, 2009, he was nominated for three more Grammy Awards including Best Pop Instrumental Album and Best Long Form Music Video...
where she sang the Burt Bacharach classic "The Look of Love
The Look of Love (1967 song)
"The Look of Love" is a popular song composed by Burt Bacharach and Hal David and sung by Dusty Springfield, which appeared in the 1967 spoof James Bond film Casino Royale.-Songwriters:...
". She also features on the DVD release of this concert and is seen in his tour in Europe. Sy Smith also serves as the voice actor of Aisha in the video game Saints Row
Saints Row
Saints Row is an open world action-adventure video game developed by Volition, Inc. and published by THQ. It is the first title in the Saints Row series and is succeeded by Saints Row 2. A PlayStation 3 port was cancelled after protracted development time...
and Saint's Row 2. As Aisha, she recorded three tracks for the game's soundtrack. Sy Smith's "The Art Of You" appears on Independent Soul Divas 2 on UK label, Lola Waxx. In mid-2009, Smith released the fourth single "B-Side Love Affair" and the music video aired to YouTube. In June 2009, Smith toured with the singers Yahzarah
YahZarah
Dana Nicole Williams is an American singer. She is commonly known by her stage name, Yahzarah or Purple St. James.Yahzarah rose to fame when she became a back-up singer for Erykah Badu in 2000. In 2001, Yahzarah signed to Keo Music Records released her first album, Hear Me...
, Conya Doss
Conya Doss
Conya Doss is an American R&B and soul singer-songwriter and record producer. In 2001, Conya Doss started her own recording label Conya Doss Songs and began recording her first album. In 2002, Doss released her first singles "Good Good" and "Coffee" which were followed by the release of her album,...
, and Maya Azucena
Maya Azucena
Maya Azucena is an American singer-songwriter and cultural ambassador from Brooklyn, NY. She attended the LaGuardia School of Performing Arts. She independently released her debut CD "Maya Who?!" at shows and from her website.-Solo Work:...
on the Soulsista Tour. She later appeared on Fox DC to promote her new single "The Art of You". In July 2009, Smith toured with Conya Doss
Conya Doss
Conya Doss is an American R&B and soul singer-songwriter and record producer. In 2001, Conya Doss started her own recording label Conya Doss Songs and began recording her first album. In 2002, Doss released her first singles "Good Good" and "Coffee" which were followed by the release of her album,...
, Yahzarah
YahZarah
Dana Nicole Williams is an American singer. She is commonly known by her stage name, Yahzarah or Purple St. James.Yahzarah rose to fame when she became a back-up singer for Erykah Badu in 2000. In 2001, Yahzarah signed to Keo Music Records released her first album, Hear Me...
, and Ra-Re Valverde on the Soul Uprising Tour.
2010-present: Syberselects-present
In April 2010, Smith appeared on The Mo'Nique ShowThe Mo'Nique Show
The Mo'Nique Show is an American talk show hosted by comedienne actress Mo'Nique. Aired on BET, the series began October 5, 2009. She is the first African American woman to host her own late night show. The show's second and final season premiered on Monday, October 4, 2010.On July 18, 2011, BET...
to perform her single Fly Away With Me
Fly Away With Me
"Fly Away With Me" is a song recorded by American singer-songwriter Sy Smith. It was written by Sy Smith and Kay of the Foundation, and produced by Ty Macklin for Smith's third solo album, Conflict.-Overview:...
and promote her album Conflict
Conflict (album)
Conflict is the third studio album by American R&B/soul singer, Sy Smith. The album was officially released on April 1, 2008, in United States.-Recording:...
. Smith is planning to release an new project in 2010. In July 2010, Smith went on tour with Mark de Clive-Lowe. On August 5, 2010, she performed at the special event "Summer Concert Series" at "Baldwin Hill Censhaw Plaza" in Los Angeles
Los Ángeles
Los Ángeles is the capital of the province of Biobío, in the commune of the same name, in Region VIII , in the center-south of Chile. It is located between the Laja and Biobío rivers. The population is 123,445 inhabitants...
, California
California
California is a state located on the West Coast of the United States. It is by far the most populous U.S. state, and the third-largest by land area...
. In mid-August 2010, Smith released a single "Truth" to iTunes. In October 2010, Smith received a Soultrack Readers Choice Award "Song of the Year" nomination for her song "Greatest Weapon of all Time". On October 26, 2010, Smith released her best of album, "SyberSelects: A Collection of Sy Smith Favorites". In 2010, Smith began the recording sessions for her fourth album.
In December 2010, Smith confirmed in an interview, that she will be doing a jazz album. Smith stated, "I’m kind of closing the book on that part of me for a second, so I can embrace other things that I really want to do. I’m working on a jazz record that’s more straight-ahead kind of jazz. I’m working to finish this synthy '80s throwback dance record...".
In January 2011, Sy Smith and Mark de Clive-Lowe recorded a version of Teena Marie's 1984 hit "Lovergirl
Lovergirl
"Lovergirl" is the first single from Teena Marie's 1984 album, Starchild. The song became Marie's biggest hit, peaking at #4 on the Billboard Hot 100. She wrote and produced the song....
and went on the "Authencity Tour" with the Foreign Exchange. In February 2011, Mark de Clive-Lowe announced to release a "MdCL + Sy Smith: Collection Vol. 1
MdCL + Sy Smith: Collection Vol. 1
MdCL + Sy Smith: Collection Vol. 1 is the first collaborative album of R&B singer Sy Smith and deejay/producer Mark de Clive-Lowe. The album is expected to be released in mid-2011.-Background:...
". In March 2011, Smith went on the "Sunstorm Tour" with ZO!.
Vocals
Sy Smith is a high-pitched sopranoSoprano
A soprano is a voice type with a vocal range from approximately middle C to "high A" in choral music, or to "soprano C" or higher in operatic music. In four-part chorale style harmony, the soprano takes the highest part, which usually encompasses the melody...
with a whistle register
Whistle register
The whistle register is the highest register of the human voice, lying above the modal register and falsetto register...
as demonstrated in her songs "Fly Away With Me", "Star", and "Deep Sleep". Smith's whistle tone has closely been compared to Minnie Riperton
Minnie Riperton
Minnie Julia Riperton was an American singer-songwriter best known for her 1975 single "Lovin' You". She was married to songwriter and music producer Richard Rudolph from 1972 until her death in the summer of 1979. They had two children - music engineer Marc Rudolph and actress/comedienne Maya...
's whistle tone who has displayed this in a live version of Minnie Riperton's song "Baby, This Love I Have". While Smith has been known for her high-pitched vocals, she can also sing in an alto
Alto
Alto is a musical term, derived from the Latin word altus, meaning "high" in Italian, that has several possible interpretations.When designating instruments, "alto" frequently refers to a member of an instrumental family that has the second highest range, below that of the treble or soprano. Hence,...
range.
Influences
Smith has been influenced by singers such as Minnie RipertonMinnie Riperton
Minnie Julia Riperton was an American singer-songwriter best known for her 1975 single "Lovin' You". She was married to songwriter and music producer Richard Rudolph from 1972 until her death in the summer of 1979. They had two children - music engineer Marc Rudolph and actress/comedienne Maya...
, Diana Ross
Diana Ross
Diana Ernestine Earle Ross is an American singer, record producer, and actress. Ross was lead singer of the Motown group The Supremes during the 1960s. After leaving the group in 1970, Ross began a solo career that included successful ventures into film and Broadway...
, and James Brown
James Brown
James Joseph Brown was an American singer, songwriter, musician, and recording artist. He is the originator of Funk and is recognized as a major figure in the 20th century popular music for both his vocals and dancing. He has been referred to as "The Godfather of Soul," "Mr...
. Although Sy Smith has done many R&B influenced songs, her primary musical style is heavily influenced by go-go and funk
Funk
Funk is a music genre that originated in the mid-late 1960s when African American musicians blended soul music, jazz and R&B into a rhythmic, danceable new form of music. Funk de-emphasizes melody and harmony and brings a strong rhythmic groove of electric bass and drums to the foreground...
music. Smith has also influenced musical artists such as E Reece, N'Dambi, and other well-known singers.
Stage
Smith has widely been known to wear big glasses or shades during her performances. She has also been known to wear her hair in an afroAfro
Afro, sometimes shortened to fro and also known as a "natural", is a hairstyle worn naturally by people with lengthy kinky hair texture or specifically styled in such a fashion by individuals with naturally curly or straight hair...
style usually accompanied by flower. Aside from her stage presence, Smith prefers mostly to sing close to microphone on the stand.
Acting
In 2001, Smith made a cameo appearance in All About YouAll About You (film)
All About You is a 2001 African American romantic comedy film written and directed by Christine Swanson, Produced by Michael Swanson and starring Renee Goldsberry and Terron Brooks....
as the restaurant singer. In 2004, Smith received a minor role in The Seat Filler
The Seat Filler
The Seat Filler is an American romantic comedy musical film produced by the Company Production of Magnolia Home Entertainment, Seat Filler Productions, Shake Martin Films and Strange Fruit Films which released in 2004. It stars Kelly Rowland, Duane Martin, Melanie Brown, Kyla Pratt and Shemar Moore...
as Fitz (VJ). Later that year, Smith starred as Rose in the independent film Black Rose. In 2005, she also appeared in the film If You Don't Believe: A Love Story. In 2006, she appeared in Body Language as the supporting role "Holt". Smith was nominated in 2005 and 2006 for a NAACP Theatre Award as Best Supporting Female-Local for her role in If You Don't Believe: A Love Story and Body Language.
Personal life
On July 11, 2010, Sy Smith married to actor and music video director Shawn Carter Peterson. The wedding began at 11:35 A.M. and ended with the reception, which began at 9:00 P.M. Smith is also good friends with YahzarahYahZarah
Dana Nicole Williams is an American singer. She is commonly known by her stage name, Yahzarah or Purple St. James.Yahzarah rose to fame when she became a back-up singer for Erykah Badu in 2000. In 2001, Yahzarah signed to Keo Music Records released her first album, Hear Me...
, N'dambi
N'dambi
-Biography:N'dambi is the ninth of eleven children born to a Baptist minister and missionary. Her father was a minister and singer in a quartet group. She got her professional start singing with Gaye Arbuckle, a local gospel singer, touring with Arbuckle for two years...
, Raheem DeVaughn
Raheem DeVaughn
Raheem DeVaughn is an American singer and songwriter. His debut album, The Love Experience , reached No. 46 on the Billboard 200 album chart. It featured the singles "Guess Who Loves You More" and "You". His second album Love Behind the Melody was released in January 2008...
, Conya Doss
Conya Doss
Conya Doss is an American R&B and soul singer-songwriter and record producer. In 2001, Conya Doss started her own recording label Conya Doss Songs and began recording her first album. In 2002, Doss released her first singles "Good Good" and "Coffee" which were followed by the release of her album,...
, Ledisi
Ledisi
Ledisi Anibade Young is an American singer-songwriter and actress. Her first name means "to bring forth" or "to come here" in Yoruba. Ledisi is known for her jazz influenced vocals. In 1995, Ledisi formed the group known as Anibade. After unsuccessfully trying to get the group signed to a major...
, and E Reece
E Reece
Ebon Herndon is an American rapper-songwriter, actor, and model. He is commonly known by his stage name E Reece. Reece rose to fame in the mid 2000s when he signed a recording contract with Kajmere Sounds in 2005. Reece released his first studio album A New Breed in 2006, which spawned the singles...
. She is first cousins with Mark Whitfield
Mark Whitfield
Mark Whitfield is an American hard bop and soul-jazz guitarist born in Syosset, New York, probably better known for his recordings as bandleader for both the Verve and Warner Bros. Records record labels...
.
Discography
Albums- 2000: PsykosoulPsykosoulPsykosoul is the first studio album by R&B/neo soul singer/songwriter Sy Smith, released in 2000 on Hollywood Records. The critically acclaimed album included the singles "Gladly" and "Good N'Strong," as well as a standout cover of Edie Brickell's "What I Am" which also made an appearance on the...
- 2005: The Syberspace SocialThe Syberspace SocialThe Syberspace Social is the independent debut of R&B/neo-soul singer/songwriter Sy Smith. The critically acclaimed album featured production by James Poyser and Victor Duplaix...
- 2008: ConflictConflict (album)Conflict is the third studio album by American R&B/soul singer, Sy Smith. The album was officially released on April 1, 2008, in United States.-Recording:...
- 2010: Syberselects: A Collection of Sy Smith Favorites
- 2011: MdCL + Sy Smith: Collection Vol. 1MdCL + Sy Smith: Collection Vol. 1MdCL + Sy Smith: Collection Vol. 1 is the first collaborative album of R&B singer Sy Smith and deejay/producer Mark de Clive-Lowe. The album is expected to be released in mid-2011.-Background:...
Video Releases
- 2007: Sy Smith Live: Worship At The TempleSy Smith Live: Worship at the TempleSy Smith Live: Worship At The Temple is a live DVD by American R&B singer Sy Smith that was released in the US in 2007.-About the Show:On December 30, 2006, Sy Smith performed a live show at Santa Monica, California's Temple Bar. Accompanied by a 9-piece band, Smith performed a total of 9 songs...
Tours
- 2006: Blue Note Tour
- 2007: Sy Smith Tour
- 2008: Conflict Tour
- 2008: Chris Botti Tour
- 2009: Soul Sista (with Conya DossConya DossConya Doss is an American R&B and soul singer-songwriter and record producer. In 2001, Conya Doss started her own recording label Conya Doss Songs and began recording her first album. In 2002, Doss released her first singles "Good Good" and "Coffee" which were followed by the release of her album,...
, YahzarahYahZarahDana Nicole Williams is an American singer. She is commonly known by her stage name, Yahzarah or Purple St. James.Yahzarah rose to fame when she became a back-up singer for Erykah Badu in 2000. In 2001, Yahzarah signed to Keo Music Records released her first album, Hear Me...
, and Maya Azucena) - 2009: Soul Uprising (with Conya DossConya DossConya Doss is an American R&B and soul singer-songwriter and record producer. In 2001, Conya Doss started her own recording label Conya Doss Songs and began recording her first album. In 2002, Doss released her first singles "Good Good" and "Coffee" which were followed by the release of her album,...
, YahzarahYahZarahDana Nicole Williams is an American singer. She is commonly known by her stage name, Yahzarah or Purple St. James.Yahzarah rose to fame when she became a back-up singer for Erykah Badu in 2000. In 2001, Yahzarah signed to Keo Music Records released her first album, Hear Me...
, and Ra-re Valverde) - 2010: Sy Smith & Mark de Clive-Lowe Tour
- 2010: Live in 2010
- 2010: The Indie Soul Sistah Tour (with Carol Riddick, Res, Helen Bruner, and Terry Jones)
- 2011: Authencity Tour (with The Foreign Exchange)
- 2011: Sunstorm Tour (with ZO!)
- 2011: Winter Greens Tour (opening act for Rebelution)
- 2011: Live in 2011 (with Orgone)
Filmography
| Film/Theatre/TV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
| 1997 | Ally McBeal | Singer | Supporting role |
| 2001 | All About You | Toomie's singer | Supporting role |
| 2002 | Lyric Cafe | Herself | Musical director |
| 2004 | The Seat Filler | Fitz (VJ) | Supporting role |
| 2004 | Black Rose | Rose | Lead role |
| 2005 | If You Don't Believe: A Love Story | Ellie Johnson | Supporting role |
| 2006 | True Grits | Pregnant Woman | Supporting role |
| 2006 | Body Language | Holt | Supporting role |
| 2006 | Saints Row | Aisha | Supporting role |
| 2008 | Saints Row 2 | Aisha | Supporting role |
| 2011 | How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother is an American sitcom that premiered on CBS on September 19, 2005, created by Craig Thomas and Carter Bays.As a framing device, the main character, Ted Mosby with narration by Bob Saget, in the year 2030 recounts to his son and daughter the events that led to his meeting... |
Singer | "Tick, Tick, Tick" cameo |
Awards and nominations
These are the awards won by American R&BRhythm and blues
Rhythm and blues, often abbreviated to R&B, is a genre of popular African American music that originated in the 1940s. The term was originally used by record companies to describe recordings marketed predominantly to urban African Americans, at a time when "urbane, rocking, jazz based music with a...
singer Sy Smith.
| Year | Category | Nominated Work | Result | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primetime Emmy Awards | |||||
| 2001 | Outstanding Music and Lyrics | "Welcome Back" | Nominated | ||
| NAACP Theatre Awards NAACP Theatre Awards The NAACP Theatre Awards is an award presented annually by the Beverly Hills-Hollywood branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People to honor outstanding people of color in theatre.... |
|||||
| 2005 | Best Supporting Female-Local | "If You Don't Believe: A Love Story" | Nominated | ||
| 2006 | Best Supporting Female-Local | "Body Language" | Nominated | ||
| Soultracks | |||||
| 2008 | Album of the Year | "Conflict" | Nominated | ||
| 2010 | Song of the Year | "Greatest Weapon of All Time" | Nominated | ||
| LA Weekly Music Awards | |||||
| 2009 | Best Contemporary Blues/R&B Artist | Nominated | |||
External links
- SySmith.com - Official site