Meshell Ndegeocello

Meshell Ndegeocello

Meshell Ndegeocello was born on August 29th, 1968

Full Name: Meshell Ndegeocello
Nationality: German-American
Profession: Singer
Occupation: Songwriter
Notable For: American Singer
Genre: R&B
Notable Works: Who Is He and What Is He to You
Awards: 10 Grammy Nominations

A genre-bending singer-songwriter known for blending jazz, funk, and R&B to create a unique sound, and for being an out and proud LGBTQ+ artist.

Written by: Jack Thompson Jack Thompson
  • Meshell Ndegeocello honed her skills on the D.C. go-go circuit in the late 1980s with bands Prophecy, Little Benny and the Masters, and Rare Essence.
  • She was one of the first artists to sign with Maverick Records, releasing her debut album, Plantation Lullabies, which presented a distinctly androgynous persona.
  • Her biggest hit, "Wild Night," a duet with John Mellencamp, reached No. 3 on the Billboard charts, while her self-penned "If That's Your Boyfriend He Wasn't Last Night" peaked at No. 73 in 1994.
  • In 1994, she collaborated with Herbie Hancock on "Nocturnal Sunshine" for the Red Hot Organization.
  • Throughout her career, Meshell Ndegeocello has released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including Peace Beyond Passion, Bitter, and Comfort Woman.
Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, and India.Arie. Her innovative approach to music has also inspired a broader range of genres, from rock to hip hop.

  • Two-time Grammy winner
  • Eleven-time Grammy nominee
  • Nomination for Best New Artist at the 1994 MTV Video Music Awards
  • 1968: Born Michelle Lynn Johnson in West Berlin, Germany
  • 1980s: Performs on the D.C. go-go circuit with various bands
  • 1993: Releases debut album, Plantation Lullabies
  • 1994: Collaborates with John Mellencamp on "Wild Night" and with Herbie Hancock on "Nocturnal Sunshine"
  • 1996: Wins Grammy for Best R&B Song for "Who Is He and What Is He to You"
  • 2002: Releases album, Cookie: The Anthropological Mixtape
  • 2012: Releases album, Pour une Âme Souveraine: A Dedication to Nina Simone
Timeline
1969
Born in Germany
Meshell Ndegeocello was born on August 29, 1969, in Germany to African American parents. She would go on to become a singer-songwriter.
1993
Released debut album
Ndegeocello released her debut album Plantation Lullabies in 1993.
1996
Released Peace Beyond Passion
Ndegeocello released the album Peace Beyond Passion in 1996, which explored themes of love and spirituality.
2002
Won Grammy Award
Ndegeocello won a Grammy Award for Best Urban/Alternative Performance for her song Pocketbook in 2002.
2012
Released Pour une Âme Souveraine
Ndegeocello released the album Pour une Âme Souveraine, a tribute to the music of Nina Simone.
Meshell Ndegeocello

Meshell Ndegeocello Quiz

What genre of music is Meshell Ndegeocello known for blending?

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FAQ
What is Meshell Ndegeocellos music style?
Meshell Ndegeocellos music style is a fusion of R&B, soul, funk, and hip hop, often incorporating elements of jazz and rock. She is known for her introspective and poetic lyrics, as well as her distinctive vocal delivery.
What is Meshell Ndegeocellos most famous song?
Meshell Ndegeocellos most famous song is probably Who Is He and What Is He to You, a critically acclaimed single from her 1996 album Peace Beyond Passion. The song showcases her unique vocal style and thought-provoking lyrics.
What awards has Meshell Ndegeocello won?
Meshell Ndegeocello has won several awards, including multiple Grammy nominations and a Soul Train Music Award for Best R&B/Soul Single.
What is Meshell Ndegeocellos involvement in LGBTQ+ advocacy?
Meshell Ndegeocello is an openly gay woman and has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights throughout her career. She has been involved in various charity projects and has used her platform to raise awareness about LGBTQ+ issues.
What is Meshell Ndegeocellos latest project?
Meshell Ndegeocello has released several albums in recent years, including Ventriloquism in 2018, which features her interpretations of classic R&B and pop songs. She continues to tour and produce new music, always pushing the boundaries of her unique sound.

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