Cheryl Pepsii Riley Continues To Inspire With A Voice That Keeps Singing
nicholasg980
the late '80's she solidified her voice in our hearts forever. The
passion behind the lyrics touched such a chord that the song became
not only a number one single, but an anthem for women that still
vibrates within our spirits to this day. We recognized the Brooklyn,
New York native as an angelic songbird with staying power. Singer,
songwriter and producer, Cheryl Pepsii Riley proved us correct.
Today her voice is still very much a part of our musical landscape.
Her melodious magic is evidenced in Tyler Perry's many blockbuster
plays and movie soundtracks, her independent CD releases, and every
Monday night even, at the Village Underground in New York where for
four years now, she has hosted one of the city's hottest indie artists
jam sessions! Cheryl Pepsii Riley is a contender. The music business
may have changed, but she has evolved with it!
Cheryl has maintained and grown her fan base over the years by
broadening her realm and acting in numerous popular gospel plays.
Audiences may recall her first play, "Momma Don't," co-starring Rev.
Rance Allen, Lynette Hawkins and the Clark Sisters. To date, she has
over 13 national touring plays to her credit, including several with
the award-winning king of the genre, Tyler Perry.
Cheryl has also provided vocals on several of Tyler Perry's film
soundtracks. In fact, it was Cheryl's voice that rocked the house as
Tariji P. Henson lip-synced her dramatic club scenes in Perry's film
"I Can Do Bad All By Myself." And in the recent DVD release of Tyler
Perry's "Madea's Big Happy Family" Cheryl takes the stage as Joyce
endearing audiences with her multi-octave range. Riley's history with
Perry spans multiple DVD stage play releases including "Why Did I Get
Married," "Madea Goes to Jail," and "Madea's Class Reunion."
"Let Me Be Me" Riley's latest CD is a seductive serving of originals
that ride the terrain of jazzy funk, bluesy rock and gospel tinged
R&B. Soon to be re-released, the project is infused with heart-felt
honesty and tenderness as Cheryl delves deep into the space of
vulnerable yet strong feminine compassion. Sultry, smooth and sensual,
"Let Me Be Me" is a grown woman's musical journey. From the melodious
opener, "Thanks," to the searing "No, But I Want To So Bad," to the
bold and funk laded, "Damn!" the revealing "Miss U," and the
inspirational "Call On Him," Cheryl continues to bare a soul that
resonates layers of raw sensitivity.
New Yorker's get to experience the creativity of Cheryl Pepsii Riley
first hand every Monday night at the Village Underground where she
hosts her "Back in the Day, Black Velvet Painting, Blue Lights in da
Basement, Musicians and Singers Jam" night! More simply known as
"Black Velvet Mondays," the showcase is celebrating four years as
musicians from around the world have dropped in to grace the stage.
The showcase streams live at http://www.TheVillageUnderground.com and
bridges the gap between the old school and new school as artists and
musicians come to perform, network and inspire.
"'Black Velvet Mondays' is my special baby," reveals Riley. "The
energy every Monday is amazing. We are a special haven for artist
creativity and our four years is a testimony to the appreciation. God
has truly blessed me with this gift of song and it is with great joy
that I get to give back to others. I envisioned 'Black Velvet Mondays'
as my way of giving back to the youth and presenting them an
opportunity to grow, shed, learn and get an education about this
business. And as a platform, our Monday nights keeps growing and
growing! With my touring, recording and the weekly night sessions, I
am just blessed to have so many artistic avenues for expression."
When not on the road touring with Tyler Perry, Cheryl Pepsii Riley
tours and performs the nightclub circuit. She will be at The Blue Note
in New York with independent jazz guitarist, Abdul Zuhri on March 18
and in Washington, DC at Blues Alley on June 30th with her band, Hot
Chocolate. The woman who sang "Thanks for My Child" also busies
herself with "The Young Women's Leadership School" a school program
providing mentorship for young women.
To explore the musical realm that is Cheryl Pepsii Riley, join her at
http://CherylPepsiiRiley.com and friend her on Facebook under
http://www.Facebook.com/Cheryl Pepsii Riley.