BELLADONNA
History
Belladonna first made her mark by placing second in the Caribana Rap-Off in 1995. She went
on to become a regular in the Toronto spoken word scene, and has continued to develop her
oratory skills in poetry, hip hop and theatrical productions.
In 2001, she appeared on the Dope Poet Society's 911: World Trade remix, followed by the
group's more recent release, War of Terrorism, after scoring New Harlem Productions' 2003
production of Iona.
She returned from New Jersey's 2003 Truskool Festival 06.21 as reigning female freestyle
champion, and completed recording on her coming single, Bounce.
Sound
Belladonna is constantly re-inventing herself as an artist, making her style difficult to
capture with typical labels. To understand her sound, fill the back of your mind with jazz,
gospel, soul, hip hop, resistance chants and straight funk; you will have scratched the
surface of her influences. For the ultimate listening experience leave the foreground of
your mind free to listen and feel the passion inherent in songs about social unrest, or the
bassy bounce of fierce lyrical rhythms unleashed. Belladonna battles hard and dances harder.
Live Vibe
The hold this artist has over a live audience is inexplicable and absolute. From the first
tremors of her voice through the speakers, live crowds respond, catcalling their allegiance
and dancing their appreciation. More than one performance has culminated in a stage packed
with moving bodies, bumping to the beat. While the music moves them, feedback makes it all
too clear that the message cuts through.
Community
Often invited to speak before schools, youth groups and community centres, Belladonna's
sense of accountability drives her to address topics of concern in the urban community.
Violence in all its forms, substance abuse, safe sex, and body image are all themes
prevalent in her work.
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