The 411: Music & DJ Life Blog | DJ Vybe

Music News - posted on November 18, 2013 by RealDJVybe.com

Sparkle…Wait A Minute, She Ain’t Finished!

In an industry where “perfection” was once a standard, very few artists could be considered. Sparkle however, is one of those “rare” artists! Driven to her perfection by her once mentor R. Kelly. Singer-songwriter, known for her 1998 chart-topping R&B hit “Be Careful,” Sparkle has experienced the highs and lows of a fickle music industry and is back with a vengeance, reclaiming her spot in today’s landscape of R&B.

Although many believe Sparkle’s career begins and ends with her self-titled debut project, there is far more to the fiery songstress. Sparkle began making a name for herself when she collaborated with an R&B legend, R-Kelly on the late Aaliyah’s project “Age Ain’t Nothing’ But A Number.” This alliance allowed her to polish her craft, and set her up for stardom. Sparkle became the first and only artist to release a project on Kelly’s Rockland imprint.

Sparkle print 5

The first single “Be Careful” was a ballad, which ruled the R&B charts for six consecutive weeks. While working on Sparkle’s sophomore project, creative differences forced the pair to go their separate ways, but Sparkle credits the partnership with allowing her to grow and learn from one of the best. Sparkle’s second project was released via Motown Records, but it languished on the charts and was widely ignored due to poor promotion, leaving her disappointed but not defeated.

Sparkle spent the next several years separating herself from negative influences and focusing on finding the best of what’s inside her. Friend and mentor Toni Braxton provided an excellent atmosphere for Sparkle to peel away unnecessary layers and expose a more brilliant star than we’ve seen before. Now back on the scene, Sparkle is better and stronger than ever, producing life inspired songs such as the catchy single “So Bad” for her new project.

While in the midst of recording her 3rd studio album, an album of strength and integrity, as she puts it! A life long fan of Destiny’s Child [as a whole], but especially Kelly Rowland because in Sparkle’s opinion, Rowland had been improperly acknowledged over the years…something Sparkle identifies with. When ‘Dirty Laundry’ was initially released Sparkle celebrated Rowland’s courage to speak on such subjects! Sparkle also said the song sounded like a (R. Kelly produced) Sparkle record, which eventually moved her to put a bit of her‘Dirty Laundry’ out as well!

Expectations still stand true; Sparkle is the same Sparkle, only smarter and wiser. When asked to describe her upcoming project on the independent label DNA Entertainment, Sparkle says, “It’s still me, some real life shit…just with a broader sound.”