Jenelle “Nelle Rose” Dunkley, born in Mount Vernon, NY and raised in Freehold, NJ, comes from a Jamaican family who migrated to The Bronx in the 1980s. At the tender age of five, under the direction of her mother, she began her musical journey by singing in the church choir. At the age of 14, she began to explore her talents deeper by recording original materials and joining an indie gospel group known as J. Michael & W2 (Without Walls). After leaving the group, she began to perform under the moniker Au’Janae and continued her solo endeavors. Influenced by the likes of Whitney Houston, Lauryn Hill, India. Arie, Jill Scott, Kierra Sheard, and Brandy, set out to add her name to a group of artists who march to the beat of their own drums. Exemplifying simplicity in her vocal talents provides texture to what has become an unarguably ambiguous genre. She integrates mystique and raw emotions into her music and stage performances. As an artist, she enjoys captivating audiences with simple yet authoritative vocals; leaving many spectators in shock because of her stature. The rush of performing live leaves her in a state of euphoria. The reactions she receives from the audience remind her to continue to live in the moment—a lesson she learned from her great-grandmother and mentor. She worked the underground circuit for several years while earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Africana Studies from Rutgers University. In her career thus far, she has generously learned about sacrifice and creating her own path. In early 2018, she faced many health challenges that impacted her voice. Upon her full recovery, she decided to give up her possessions and relocate to Los Angeles to further pursue her dreams. She is currently a member of the Sunday Service Choir that travels and performs with Kanye West. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices