We all love music that's straightforward, with a touch of sass and honesty. Enough of the pre-packaged diva that refuses to see her role beyond the mirror or the notes to be sung. And we've certainly had enough of the artist who takes the praise, and gives little to improve the artistry of her craft. So, when a new artist is discovered, one whose warmth and integrity comes through on every song she sings, well, that's simply the icing on the cake. Yasmeen is just such an artist, one who fits the unique criteria of a very special performer, blessed with a marvelous voice that can bump with the best hip-hop, then ease into the most tender, heart-wrenching ballad, each with equal verve.
Yasmeen's Magic Johnson/MCA Records debut album, When Will It Be Me holds an abundant promise of greatness that, upon first spin, an indefinable spark piques the listener's curiosity. After the newness sets in, that tinge of greatness comes through in wave after wave of genuineness, sincerity and commitment to the art of song interpretation. Add the fact that this burgeoning talent is only 19, and then the marvel takes concrete form as goosebumps start to rise.
Born in Oakland, Yasmeen Sulieman lived in that creative hotbed until she was 7, when her parents moved the family to Hawaii. Singing since she was a little girl, Yasmeen was inspired to follow her muse by a close cousin. "That's the main reason I started singing. She was someone I just really looked up to," Yasmeen relates. Yasmeen's dad, Jameel Sulieman, now a doctor, played drums in several bands while in college. "That was probably one of the other reasons why I got into music, too. From day one, I've been surrounded by music." She joined several local choirs and graduated to community and musical theatre at age 11. In high school, won a state wide talent competition called "Brown Bags," with a moving interpretation of Celine Dion's "Love Is On The Way," which is on soundtrack to the movie "The First Wives' Club."
Yasmeen's far-ranging influences include Whitney Houston, Toni Braxton, Micahel Jackson ("From day one!"), Mariah Carey, Luther Vandross, opera, alternative, rock, Top-40, reggae and even Hawaiian music. "When we first moved to Hawaii, I was like, 'What is this music?' But it really grows on you, especially as you get to know more of the culture. So, whenever I get homesick, I put it on to relax. But I pretty much listen to everything."
When Will It Be Me is the result of a two-year process to fit Yasmeen with producers ranging from Diane Warren, Derek Bramble, Novel and Jazzy Fay. The plan worked as each producer was able to pull that latent talent into a mature whole. Beginning with the first single, "Blue Jeans," Yasmeen kicks the proceedings into high gear as she establishes a solid identity with a pulsing, hook-laden tune. "Being With You," "As I Am," "I Don't Wanna Smile" and the title cut are big, juicy ballads that allow Yasmeen to stretch both vocally and emotionally. And if you're in the mood to hit the dance floor, check "Just Wanna Be Lonely," and its straightforward message of taking the time to "Be with me, myself and I." every once in a while.
When Will It Be Me offers many diverse avenues for listeners to be amazed for some time to come. Is the music world ready for the new diva? Yasmeen gives thought as to how she feels about being true to the elusive qualities surrounding music: "I'm happy with the album," Yasmeen concludes. "Music can take you to a different place. I can't really explain it, but I'm amazed at how much it touches me, emotionally. I'll think I've probably heard every song that I'm ever gonna love. But I'll turn on the radio and suddenly I hear a new song that touches something else in me, and I say, 'Okay, I was wrong!' It's amazing." Get ready to be touched again and again by the magic of Yasmeen.
Source: http://www.artistdirect.com/artist/bio/yasmeen/512318
