BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

Creasha

Living faithfully, boldly and blessed was not always the lifestyle chosen by inspirational newcomer and independent artist, LeCreasha Randall. In fact, before finding her way, this diva of song managed to take several missteps along the way putting her on a path of confusion, disappointment and despair. But through the grace of God, this musical prodigy has much to smile about and gleefully refers to herself as “a big colorful salad.”

Her debut album entitled, “Simply Creasha,” (available on iTunes and CDBaby) brings the artist full circle from what her life was to what it is today. It is an incredible attempt to reach out to listeners who may be burdened by any number of worries in their own lives. “There are so many different things that have happened in my life, this is just simply me hoping to help someone else who might feel as hopeless as I did.”

Born in Columbus, Ohio, Creasha was strongly influenced by music through the powerful voice of her mother who introduced her to Gospel music. At the age of two, she discovered the joy of singing, but it was not until 1999 that she started singing her heart out in the church and began developing a true personal relationship with God. Along with her mother, she cites an eclectic group of musical influences such as Whitney Houston, Patti LaBelle, Tina Turner, Luther Vandross, Peabo Bryson and George Benson. With a voice that compares to the depth of Yolanda Adams, the elegance and range of Whitney Houston and the soulfulness of Mahalia Jackson – don’t put this dynamic singer in a box – Creasha brings her own unique mix to the inspirational music she loves and shares with others.

“The things I have gone through in my life have not always been easy. I stepped off the path,” she says, “but today I am so grateful for God’s grace and mercy and His forgiveness and love.”

In this musical compilation, listeners will discover a variety of sounds, including 1970’s inspired beats, Latin and contemporary rhythms, moving ballads and up tempo praise songs accompanied by the piano, saxophone, drums, bass and keyboard. Creasha brings eight inspirational tracks to life featuring songs that provide meaning to a number of emotions and encourages strength, comfort and hope.

Among the album’s featured tracks include the chaotic “Confusion,” addressing the feeling of being overwhelmed with so much in life, and “I Believe, Help My Unbelief,” explaining that despite the storms, God’s got it. “I hope that listeners of this album understand that they are not the only ones going through problems. God is a loving and forgiving God. All you have to do is take heed to what He wants you to do and He will give you clarity.”

Another touching composition on this debut effort includes the special song, “Hold On,” declaring guidance in landing back where you want to be. At a time when the songstress struggled with her marriage, returning to school and caring for her children, this song emerged from her sorrow. The lyrics speak to finding her way back to God and finding peace in her life.

The warm and lyrically inspired, “Forgiven” provides a powerful message that “It is okay, if you’ve messed up, just try again,” Creasha says.

The album is packed with heart-warming songs of gratitude, grace, mercy and forgiveness. Creasha has tabbed among her favorites as “It Had to Be You,” a personal testimony of her life’s struggles and triumphs. “There was a time in my life when I was going through a lot of peaks and valleys and I began to doubt myself and not love myself. It was even difficult for me to accept the love others had for me. It was God that changed my heart, my mind and my life.”

Reflecting on her life, it was two years ago that she truly started letting God have His way. Simply Creasha has been a labor of love in the making for more than a year and has been a significant part of her healing process. Her testimony is that of a woman who has risen from the bleakest of situations to the highest heights. Although Creasha has come a long way, she readily admits she’s still a work in progress and that “God is still changing me.”

For years, the singer immersed herself into writing poetry – of which many of her works have become songs on this first effort. “A few of the songs are over 10 years old,” she says. “Whatever was on my mind, I put it on paper. These are all original.”

As she progresses in her artistry and life, Creasha has set her sights on other desires as well. She plans to start her business, Venjresha's Harvest LLC, soon, which will focus on healthy lifestyles, fashion and community service. Her entrepreneurial sights are also set on one day opening a vegetarian restaurant. Further, she hopes to complement her musical achievements with philanthropic ones by supporting organizations that offer assistance to young mothers and youth interested in attending college. “There are so many things I want to do to help our community,” she says.

Undoubtedly, Creasha is an evolving artist who has claimed ownership of her future. With a bright and anointed one ahead of her, we will have to wait to see what God has in store for her. Until then, we can experience the songs of comfort and reassurance she offers in “Simply Creasha” right now.