Tonjé

Tonje's music can't be categorized; this Houston native's music gives us the old throwback sounds with a touch of hip-hop, R&B, and some of her southern charm we once loved so dearly and still do. Her lyrics are captivating, making you say "what did she just say? If you haven't heard her name yet, well, buckle up, because you're seriously missing out. This multi-talented artist, with her gorgeous looks, mesmerizing voice, and dance moves that'll take your breath away, is ready to step into the spotlight with her new R&B single "Need U First," dropping on May 24th at midnight.

Let's rewind a bit. Tonje started her musical journey at a young age. Her childhood carried wounds that many never recover from-relentless bullying, the unimaginable trauma of molestation, and later, the devastation of physical abuse. Yet music became her sanctuary, a way to transmute pain into something empowering.

Growing up immersed in the sounds of legends like Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, and Mary J. Blige, music became her second language. Later, the raw energy and vulnerability of artists like Chris Brown, Drake, and Kehlani sparked a desire within her to craft her own unique blend of R&B and hip-hop. "When the world told me 'No,' when it tried to break me down," she confesses, "turning those feelings into melodies became my rebellion, my way of proving that my voice mattered."

"Music is how I express myself, how I process the world," she explains, her eyes shining with passion. "It's always been there for me, through everything." And 'everything' is no exaggeration. Her strength knows no bounds. From childhood trauma to the heartbreaking loss of her husband and even a cancer diagnosis, she's faced challenges that would break the spirit of many. However, it's these very experiences that infuse her music with its raw emotional power. "I wouldn't change a thing," she says, "because they made me the artist I am. You need the darkness to truly understand the light."

It's not just her music where she shines. She's also an actress, a producer, and a force of nature in the entertainment industry. From landing a spot at the New York Film Academy at just 12 years old to securing her own apartment in LA at 15, she wasn't afraid to chase big dreams early. That early success, including having her work featured on the Disney Channel, only fueled her ambition.

This drive propelled her beyond just acting. She co-founded Virtuoso Fest, one of the world's first social media music festivals, recognizing the power of online connections years before they were the norm. This proves that Tonje' has always been a visionary, and those early wins shaped her into the bold, multifaceted artist she is today.

Moreover, Tonje is an unstoppable combination of talent and tenacity. Her voice is a pure instrument-soulful, sultry, with a range that'll give you goosebumps. Her looks and dance moves are pure fire, blending precision with an infectious joy that makes you want to move along with her. But beyond the artistry, it's her personality that truly shines. She's warm, genuine, and disarmingly honest-the kind of person you feel like you've known forever after the first conversation.

"I want my music to be a lifeline," Tonje says, her voice filled with conviction. "If even one person hears my songs and feels less alone, then it's all worth it." Find her music on Spotify, SoundCloud, Apple Music, and YouTube.

This energy translates directly into her music. Her upcoming single, "Need U First," lands on May 24th at midnight, and it's an R&B powerhouse you don't want to miss. Previous tracks like "Frenemies," "Flexer," and "Don't Give Up" offer a glimpse of her sound-a mix of fearless vulnerability and catchy beats that demand to be put on repeat.

Tonje has got some sharp instincts about the industry as a whole. "Music's evolved so much," she observes, "with so many new tools for independent artists, it's exciting! While major labels still have their place, it's all about aligning with your vision as an artist."

This optimistic yet pragmatic view extends beyond just music. "In the wider acting and production world, things are looking up," she continues. "More opportunities are opening for African American artists and creators-that change is amazing to see, but there's still room for growth." It's clear that Tonje's not just focused on her own success but also on changing the landscape for those who come after her.

Her advice to those dreaming of a career in entertainment is equally insightful. "Start with a strong foundation in yourself," she insists. "Know what you stand for, what brings you joy, and what your boundaries are. Once you have that rock-solid core, envision where you want to be in five years-make it vivid-and then start working towards that goal, step by step."

All in all, with her incredible work ethic, infectious spirit, and refusal to ever give up, Tonje isn't just poised for stardom; she's redefining what it means to be a true artist. The world's about to fall in love with her, and with good reason.