Just about everyone with a radio has heard Jay-Z’s single "Lost One" from his recent album, Kingdom Come. Everyone knows who Jay-Z is, but who exactly is the source of the amazing vocals in the chorus? Well, to put an end to all of the questions, her name is Chrisette Michele. She’s Def Jam’s newest addition, and if you ask me, she’s amazing. Her debut CD, I Am, which was released in June is absolutely wonderful. She has a very soulful, jazzy style. She’s a huge fan of Gospel, Classical, and Jazz, and her diverse musical tastes are truly reflected in her songs. Her voice is reminiscent of Billy Holiday, and if you’re an Amy Winehouse, Alicia Keys, or Jill Scott fan, I’m sure you will appreciate this album. The relaxed jazzy flow is great for studying or just relaxing around your room.

Chrisette Michele is no stranger to music. She sang her first solo at age four, has been writing songs since she was 12-years-old, and she majored in music at 5 Towns College in Long Island. Before she signed with Def Jam last year, this soul sister toured with more established artists like Kem and India.Arie. She said, "India saw me singing at the Village Underground in New York City. She came backstage that first night and graciously offered me a gig as her opening act."

I Am isn’t one of those typical debut Def Jam albums that have a ton of well-known artists featured in all of the songs. In fact, only one song, "Be O K," is a collaboration. The song features will. i. am from the Black Eyed Peas and is my personal favorite from the entire CD. Don’t get me wrong though, Michele is perfectly capable of carrying herself through the album, and most certainly doesn’t require a bunch of other artists to make her worth listening to.

Sadly Chrisette doesn’t get much mainstream attention, but with singles like "Mr. Radio," a love letter addressed to music, upbeat "Let’s Rock," and feel good "Best of Me," she’s sure to please. It will definitely be hard to ignore this soulful songstress and according to her, you should "get to know me well because I’ve got a lot to bring."