B.I.O.
Beautiful. Intelligent. Original. "I am nothing, but God sees me as somebody." The humble quote captures the essence of a rising talent worth paying attention to. Possessing a smooth, soothing, powerful voice with a mezzo-soprano range; Leana’ Cristiana brings us something unique under the sun, unleashing many rivers of creative flow while yet being a throwback to the best of so many musical eras gone by. 

She thus gives one a fulfilled sense of nostalgia along with a satisfied hunger for innovation. Leana’ is capable of entertaining and enlightening any audience with a multitude of colorful styles, but who she is, is as clear as black and white…young, vibrant and truly unique, a rare jewel on today’s musical shore. 

Leana’ grew up in the depths of Milwaukee, surviving an abusive upbringing through a passion for the arts. “Part of the reason I am who I am is because of music. I fell deeply in love with music because it was music that help made my father and the household calm; I felt it was a gateway to freedom. My father was a father I could love, my mother was someone I could look up to, and my sisters and I played happily. It gave me hope.” she explains. Her talent was recognized early on and what a fight it was, but they did not go to waste, even though life does have its way of hindering aspirations. 

However, Leana has grown to find inspiration in sadness and joy in all that life has to offer. Looking to great artists as examples, she enjoys, “The sound of India Arie and Tracy Chapman because of their smooth acoustics and clear-spoken truth; Tina Turner because of her soulful struggles; Lena Horne because of her determination and love for jazzing; Billie Holiday for the sweet yet bold spice she added to many of her love songs; and Ella Fitzgerald because of the fun and random conversations throughout her music.” Leana converses in her music as well, expressing great love and appreciation. 

2011 marked the returned of music to the heart of this musician, as Leana began to dig up her songwriting and re-compose songs. The first steps on the journey to make her voice recognized were humble street performances, singing with her guitar, “Just for the fun of it and just to gain that [confident experience]” she says. Leana entered 2012 with a bang by attending comedian Jim Gaffigan’s private New Year’s party and sharing an original song for the first time in years. After the snow melted, she entertained during a five-course meal at Shakers of Milwaukee in a show titled “Twisted Broadway.” Soon after, she was asked, along with American Idol finalist Leslie Hunt, to perform at a charity fashion show by designer Tessa Koller. Leana continues to play her cards and roll the dice (and pray), as she performs each venue that comes her way.

Currently she sings with the MPS Alumni Gospel Choir, who were featured on ABC/WISN’s “Seasons to Celebrate.” The group is focused on God and the community, performing a variety of music at a variety of events. The focus and variety match her well, and seems that her prayers are being answered. Pay attention and see what else is brought her way.

Final words from the artist herself…“I really didn't know nor think I would be leaving with an extra few bucks in my pockets but people are always going to love music. LOL”

Leana' Cristiana