Joyo Velarde Announces Album Release

Love and Understanding � preceded by her 5-song self-titled EP (released digitally in May 2009) � consists of twelve tracks that were specially assembled by Joyo, Lyrics Born and fellow producers Jake One, Emmy Award winner Asa Taccone, RJD2, Tommy Guerrero, Headnodic (Crown City Rockers), and the Lifesavas' Jumbo the Garbageman.

Think Vanessa Williams meets Amel Larrieux (Groove Theory). Joyo blends soul and hip hop stylishly with her stunning vocal range at the forefront. Pulling from Minnie Riperton, Chaka Khan and Tina Marie as well as contemporary R&B singers like Alicia Keys, Solange, Angie Stone and Raheem DeVaughn, Joyo has truly mastered her craft. On "You Got Me (In the Mood)� Joyo reminds you of a female version of Marvin Gaye, while on "Lower Deck" she is truly reminiscent of Denise Williams on her hit song "Silly.� Joyo's classical study with an opera company in Rome resonates throughout the album, particularly the track "On And On.�

The "First Lady of Quannum," Joyo sang background vocals and has appeared on over 20 albums, including those of Blackalicious and also, now-husband, Tom "Lyrics Born" Shimura (both co-founders of Quannum), in addition to constant touring and television appearances with Lyrics Born. She also performed and co-wrote 10 songs on Lyrics Born's classic Later That Day, including the hit single "Callin' Out" that was featured on commercials for Diet Coke and Motorola. In addition to music, Joyo is also a fashion innovator. She�s received several endorsements, has performed at events for Puma, Evisu, Adidas, to name a few, and has been named one of the Bay Area's trendsetters and style-makers to watch by 7x7 Magazine.

Love and Understanding has already been recognized as a work of art and �Feels Right� was selected by award-winning writer/actor/director Danny Hoch (Founder of the Hip-Hop Theater Festival) to use in his latest play, Taking Over. Joyo is certainly a much needed breath of fresh air to any new listener. Love and Understanding will be in stores February 16, 2010.

Click here to read today's full Day in Pop report

Preview and Purchase Joyo Velarde CDs

Joyo Velarde MP3 Downloads