Singer, songwriter and producer India Arie was born in Denver, Colorado. Her mother was a singer who was signed to Motown and her Father was a famous pro basketball player (Ralph Simpson). Arie seemed to struggle with self image, which explains her songs 'Brown Skin, Video' etc.., Despite losing in five of seven categories to Alicia Keys. She closed the Grammy ceremony with a performance of her song "Video". I felt that her debut 'Acoustic Soul' was a MUCH stronger project than Keys 'Songs In A Minor' unfortunately Arie didnt have the 'machine' behind her. 'Soul' sold over two million copies. Her followup album 'Voyage To Indiia' went platinum. At the 2003 Grammy Awards, it won "Best R&B Album", and the single "Little Things" won "Best Urban/Alternative Performance". Still bittersweet, it was like NARAS had to compensate for overlooking her incredible debut album, but now she was reduced to 'just' an urban artist. Never one to be held down, Arie continued to plug away with songs about, her struggle with image, love and heartbreak, something that resonated with her fans. Her third CD
Testimony: Vol. 1, Life & Relationship, was released in 2006. It gave Arie her first number-one spot on the Billboard 200 it was her second chart-topper on the R&B charts. The song "I Am Not My Hair" was Arie's continued testimony and struggle with self image, it garnered little airplay. Arie left Motown in 2008 and signed with Universal Republic. She has released two albums since leaving Motown, her 'Songversation' album (which received more attention from the bleaching of her skin, than its musical content) it was released last year.
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