Artist Spotlight: Michelle Bonilla

By Andre Mullen

For Brooklyn-bred Michelle Bonilla, her music roots run deep.  Her father, a Latin Jazz guitarist, was instrumental in her exposure to music.  This along with her faith opened her up to working with a variety of urban artists and finally completing her own debut album aptly entitled Phenomenonal.

At the helm of production for the disc is David Hackley Jr. and Michelle’s husband, Lee Jerkins (cousin to über producers Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins and Freddie “Uncle Freddie Jerkins).  The husband and wife team truly create beautiful music together as made evident by a wide array of songs that range from urban, to pop, to Latin.  On “Sinti (Without You)”, Michelle teams up with label mate Da’ T.R.U.T.H., letting God know that she is nothing without Him.  Backed with an acoustic guitar and stunning, rich vocals, “Sinti (Without You)” keeps the listener in remembrance of the importance of giving God the glory despite all that is going on in life.

Michelle goes into pure Reggaeton (Reggae music with heavy Spanish music influences) mode with “Paraiso (Paradise)”.  This infectious anthem is driven with a heavy bass drum, sirens, and electronic keys.  Michelle truly displays her vocals well on her anointed rendition of “El Shaddai”.  The original song, made famous by many Christian artists, is given a fresh, but consistent touch vocally by Michelle.  Other stand out tracks includes the title track, “Phenomenal”, “All to You”, and “Your Love”.

Michelle Bonilla delivers on “Phenomenal”.  The album displays Michelle’s love for God and her love for life.  For more on Michelle Bonilla and her debut album “Phenomenal”, visit her at www.michellebonilla.com .

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