Shanelle Gabriel has been labeled a virtuosa, and she definitely validates that statement as a soulful singer, a gifted writer, astounding actress, and advocate for Lupus awareness. Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, she has displayed her skills at colleges and venues across the country. She both opened and featured on the 6th season premier of HBO's Def Poetry Jam along with Jill Scott and DMX. She recorded a nationally televised promo for the 2007 NFL Draft. Shanelle shared the stage with Nas for his 2008 album release concert for "The N Word," and featured in Q-Tip's video for "ManWomanBoogie." She also performed and worked with artists such as Les Nubians, Redman, Erick Sermon, and with comedians such as Rob Stapleton and Michael Blackson. She was a member of the 2006 Nuyorican Poets Cafe National Slam Team and a competitor in the 2007 Individual World Poetry Slam Competition in Vancouver, Canada.

Shanelle got her early start showcasing her talents in church. As she grew as an artist, she had lead roles in productions of The Vagina Monologues and Macbeth. At the Utica College Auditorium she performed as both a singer and actress while earning her B.A. in Communication Arts. She was a Def Jam College promoter and a leading radio personality on WPNR 90.7 FM.

In the summer of 2004, Shanelle was diagnosed with SLE Lupus. Yet she decided that her health would not be something that would limit her success. Using that as her fuel, she decided that she would pursue her dream of being a performing artist as well as encourage others who have obstacles in their path to do the same. She states, "My battle with Lupus has been tedious, but God has a plan. That plan does not include giving up on life. I want to be a testimony to others that no matter what, faith and determination can accomplish any goal."

Shanelle presently tours the US and abroad, facilitates creative writing workshops throughout New York City and promotes Lupus awareness. Her amazing debut album, Start Something fuses Shanelle's skill at spoken word poetry with her soulful, sultry singing. Using her upbeat pop, old school hip-hop, and inspirational soul sound, Shanelle's vibrant personality shines through each word and melody she shares.

For more information, please visit her website, shanellegabriel.com, and follow her on Twitter (@shanelleg).