Tenin

"Tenin has a natural gift for melody. In fact she can wail and touch the heart." Independently, said "I Deserve More - great song, AMAZING vocals! Keep it up! R&B is my first love and I feel there isn't enough of it anymore, so it was so great to hear your music." -- M. Abas, Independent Music Critic, Music Connection Magazine, February 2012 - Music Connection

Posted: February 10th, 2012 | Author: Chris | Filed under: Indie Artists, Music, Music Discovery, New Music

Tenin - Shit. This girl’s got swagger. Tenin makes top-of-the-world warrior woman hip-hop/neo-soul with bass and rumble to make lesser MC’s sweat before they even feel the sub-bass wobble. Born in Harlem and raised in Plainfield, NJ, she channels the likes of Erykah Badu and Lauryn Hill to form a new chapter in hip-hop’s history of conscious female singers with the pipes to back up their girl power swagger.

Check out more at www.teninworld.com, and watch the video for her track “Diamond” below. - Hypetree

As written by Micki B.:

Your self-titled debut album “Tenin” is set to hit stores Nov. 11, 2011. I’m sure you are excited about that.

I am. I’m elated. I can’t tell you how excited I am. It is a dream come true for me.

Have you always wanted to become a singer?

Yes, every since I was about 7 years old. Like I can’t really explain it but I just knew that this was for me. It was like something very intrinsic. When I became a teenager, thankfully the music industry started to change. I said you know I can do this for myself. Then I went to my family, and they were like “yeah we can do this”. My family has supported me in this. Now my album is coming out. It will be available online, in a couple of stores and on iTunes. I’m just like, this is a dream that came true for me. I’m like who would have thunk it.

It’s like you said, the industry has changed dramatically. Many artist now have access to the Internet which makes it a lot easier to get your music out there. Now and days you do not have to wait to get placement at a brick and mortar store, you can sell your album online.

Right

Diamond is your first single off your debut album, what motivated you to pen this song? And Tenin, I am assuming you wrote the song, because I know you are also a songwriter.

Yes, I did . I wrote, arranged and performed all the songs on the album . But, Diamond I felt a need to put a song on my album that was going to speak straight up to women and girls. To remind them of their self-worth. I tell everyone that “Diamond” is an anthem. “I am diamond, I am shiny, baby I am a diamond.” I wanted women to be empowered by it. I wanted a song that was actionable.

Recently you partnered with RBRW (Real Beauty, Real Worth). Tell me about RBRW and what this organization means to you?

Real Beauty, Real Worth (RBRW) is an organization that working to end domestic violence and they help women and children that are leaving those situations. RBRW is based in New Jersey and they do a lot of work in New York. And the reason why they are important to me is because those are initiatives to matter to me and like with the song”Diamond”it was made specifically for those women. So, I decided to donate some of the proceeds from the sell of the single to RBRW.

Tenin, we can now add actress to your resume. You have landed a lead role in the upcoming feature film “TUCHT”. What type of character are you portraying?

Yes, well, here’s the interesting thing, you are getting the break on this. I was cased in the lead role in “TUCHT”. Acting is something I went to school for. I actually studied musical theater in college. I got a chance to get acting, dancing and singing in. [laughs] I was casted August 2010, and August 2011 they decided to drop me from the project. I gained 30 pounds for the role and held the weight for a year. And I literally began to have issues, like I felt bad. You know I am a big girl, I am a plus size, full figured woman. Those extra 30 pounds began to really affect my health. So we went to the production team and asked them ‘what was up’ because I explained that I did not think I could hold onto the weight much longer. So the production decided they needed someone that was willing to hold on to the weight much longer. So that’s where the project is. I am no longer working on the project.

Well, I am sure acting is in your future?

Yeah, definitely. Acting I’m very passionate about.

Tenin you are a talented vocalist. How did you transition from being a songwriter to vocalist?

It was all organic. You know when I was in school, I was never the mathematician; I loved English because I loved words, grammar, poetry, prose and essays. I loved that stuff. So it has always been natural for me. My mom was a choir director, pianist, she’s a gospel singer and she’s toured Europe with a group. So music and singing has always been around me. I think I was about 11 years old when I wrote my first poem. It was cute, innocent and pure, but corny. [laughs] I started off writing poetry in my preteens. Then when I became a teenager I thought I could turn this into a song and then I’ve been writing since then. The industry is so critical, so I have never felt a need to be apart of a songwriting group. I am not against it; I just have always trusted myself. I believe I have a God given talent.

In pursuit of your career, you mentioned that your family has supported you . Do you have any close friends or other people in your life that you lean on for support?

My best friends I have known since I was 7 years old, so we have 17 years in the game of friendship. I think they support me because me being a singer makes sense to them. My two best friends have always supported me. I have major support from my community, people in my background and my church. I don’t take that for granted because it is a blessing.

Do you have any regrets so far?

I have no regrets, but a lot of lessons learned. One thing I have learne - Global Grind Network

As written by Micki B.:

Your self-titled debut album “Tenin” is set to hit stores Nov. 11, 2011. I’m sure you are excited about that.

I am. I’m elated. I can’t tell you how excited I am. It is a dream come true for me.

Have you always wanted to become a singer?

Yes, every since I was about 7 years old. Like I can’t really explain it but I just knew that this was for me. It was like something very intrinsic. When I became a teenager, thankfully the music industry started to change. I said you know I can do this for myself. Then I went to my family, and they were like “yeah we can do this”. My family has supported me in this. Now my album is coming out. It will be available online, in a couple of stores and on iTunes. I’m just like, this is a dream that came true for me. I’m like who would have thunk it.

It’s like you said, the industry has changed dramatically. Many artist now have access to the Internet which makes it a lot easier to get your music out there. Now and days you do not have to wait to get placement at a brick and mortar store, you can sell your album online.

Right

Diamond is your first single off your debut album, what motivated you to pen this song? And Tenin, I am assuming you wrote the song, because I know you are also a songwriter.

Yes, I did . I wrote, arranged and performed all the songs on the album . But, Diamond I felt a need to put a song on my album that was going to speak straight up to women and girls. To remind them of their self-worth. I tell everyone that “Diamond” is an anthem. “I am diamond, I am shiny, baby I am a diamond.” I wanted women to be empowered by it. I wanted a song that was actionable.

Recently you partnered with RBRW (Real Beauty, Real Worth). Tell me about RBRW and what this organization means to you?

Real Beauty, Real Worth (RBRW) is an organization that working to end domestic violence and they help women and children that are leaving those situations. RBRW is based in New Jersey and they do a lot of work in New York. And the reason why they are important to me is because those are initiatives to matter to me and like with the song”Diamond”it was made specifically for those women. So, I decided to donate some of the proceeds from the sell of the single to RBRW.

Tenin, we can now add actress to your resume. You have landed a lead role in the upcoming feature film “TUCHT”. What type of character are you portraying?

Yes, well, here’s the interesting thing, you are getting the break on this. I was cased in the lead role in “TUCHT”. Acting is something I went to school for. I actually studied musical theater in college. I got a chance to get acting, dancing and singing in. [laughs] I was casted August 2010, and August 2011 they decided to drop me from the project. I gained 30 pounds for the role and held the weight for a year. And I literally began to have issues, like I felt bad. You know I am a big girl, I am a plus size, full figured woman. Those extra 30 pounds began to really affect my health. So we went to the production team and asked them ‘what was up’ because I explained that I did not think I could hold onto the weight much longer. So the production decided they needed someone that was willing to hold on to the weight much longer. So that’s where the project is. I am no longer working on the project.

Well, I am sure acting is in your future?

Yeah, definitely. Acting I’m very passionate about.

Tenin you are a talented vocalist. How did you transition from being a songwriter to vocalist?

It was all organic. You know when I was in school, I was never the mathematician; I loved English because I loved words, grammar, poetry, prose and essays. I loved that stuff. So it has always been natural for me. My mom was a choir director, pianist, she’s a gospel singer and she’s toured Europe with a group. So music and singing has always been around me. I think I was about 11 years old when I wrote my first poem. It was cute, innocent and pure, but corny. [laughs] I started off writing poetry in my preteens. Then when I became a teenager I thought I could turn this into a song and then I’ve been writing since then. The industry is so critical, so I have never felt a need to be apart of a songwriting group. I am not against it; I just have always trusted myself. I believe I have a God given talent.

In pursuit of your career, you mentioned that your family has supported you . Do you have any close friends or other people in your life that you lean on for support?

My best friends I have known since I was 7 years old, so we have 17 years in the game of friendship. I think they support me because me being a singer makes sense to them. My two best friends have always supported me. I have major support from my community, people in my background and my church. I don’t take that for granted because it is a blessing.

Do you have any regrets so far?

I have no regrets, but a lot of lessons learned. One thing I have learne - Global Grind Network

1) When did you start having relatuonship with the music?
My relationship with music began as a young girl. My mother was a church choir director, pianist and singer who toured Europe with a group. She made music a major part of myself, my sister and brother's life.

2) When did you know you wanted to be be a professional singer? (turn it into your career)I can't really explain it, but when I was 7 years old I got this feeling that being a singer was for me. I always sang in church and at 11 years old I started in musical theatre and discovered a passion for acting too. Through that training I gained confidence in my singing ability and got very comfortable on stage. I just continued to develop my voice and decided to pursue music from then on.

3) Influences as a young child?¿Influences now?
As a young child I was influenced by a lot of the artists my mom listened to like Sade, Sting, Stevie Wonder, Pieces of A Dream, Chaka Khan and Boney James - I had a healthy exposure to contemporary jazz! Now, I am influenced by culture and people. I'm a people-watcher and love to listen to others' voices and watch them in their interactions. I take those observations and try to create lyrics and music that reflect our human commonalities.

4) Do you write your own songs?
Yes. I write and arrange all of my songs. At one point I was apprehensive to admit this, but then I read an article in which Erykah Badu said she writes all of her music. That really empowered me to be unapologetic in having a similar approach. Though I embrace collaborative songwriting, I really trust myself. I want to make sure that listeners see the exact picture I want to paint.

5) Tell us about Diamond, what's the song about and how was it born?
"Diamond" is my lead single: an anthem to remind women of their self-worth! The song was born out of my desire to put a song on my album that was empowering for girls and women. Since songwriting is also a visual process for me, as soon as I heard the beat, I saw an image of a saddened woman standing in a shallow well. I wanted to give her the confidence to climb out so I started singing "Diamond" to her.


6) Will we hear more music from you? is there an album in talks?
Most definitely! Making music is what I do, and not only is an album in talks, it is finished. My debut album will be available November 11, 2011!!


7) Producers you'd like to work with?
My dream collaborator is David Foster. He is a balladeer with a list of hits spanning the last 40 years! Too I'd love to work with Dre & Vidal and Pharell.

8) Dream duets/collaborations?
There are really too many to count, but for now I'll say I'd love to collaborate with Kanye West and Family Force 5


9) As a new singer (sorry if you aren't), which advices would you give to our readers who want to become singer/artists?
My advice for a reader who'd like to become a singer is to practice everyday! This is something I have to be reminded to do, but warming up by doing scales and breathing exercises really polishes your vocal instrument. Second, never aim to be just like someone else; let their style influence you but commit to exploring your unique qualities! Lastly, learn and implement basic business principles in your music career so that you can work smarter, not harder, to share your gift with the world ;) - Spanish Blog IWNM!

1) When did you start having relatuonship with the music?
My relationship with music began as a young girl. My mother was a church choir director, pianist and singer who toured Europe with a group. She made music a major part of myself, my sister and brother's life.

2) When did you know you wanted to be be a professional singer? (turn it into your career)I can't really explain it, but when I was 7 years old I got this feeling that being a singer was for me. I always sang in church and at 11 years old I started in musical theatre and discovered a passion for acting too. Through that training I gained confidence in my singing ability and got very comfortable on stage. I just continued to develop my voice and decided to pursue music from then on.

3) Influences as a young child?¿Influences now?
As a young child I was influenced by a lot of the artists my mom listened to like Sade, Sting, Stevie Wonder, Pieces of A Dream, Chaka Khan and Boney James - I had a healthy exposure to contemporary jazz! Now, I am influenced by culture and people. I'm a people-watcher and love to listen to others' voices and watch them in their interactions. I take those observations and try to create lyrics and music that reflect our human commonalities.

4) Do you write your own songs?
Yes. I write and arrange all of my songs. At one point I was apprehensive to admit this, but then I read an article in which Erykah Badu said she writes all of her music. That really empowered me to be unapologetic in having a similar approach. Though I embrace collaborative songwriting, I really trust myself. I want to make sure that listeners see the exact picture I want to paint.

5) Tell us about Diamond, what's the song about and how was it born?
"Diamond" is my lead single: an anthem to remind women of their self-worth! The song was born out of my desire to put a song on my album that was empowering for girls and women. Since songwriting is also a visual process for me, as soon as I heard the beat, I saw an image of a saddened woman standing in a shallow well. I wanted to give her the confidence to climb out so I started singing "Diamond" to her.


6) Will we hear more music from you? is there an album in talks?
Most definitely! Making music is what I do, and not only is an album in talks, it is finished. My debut album will be available November 11, 2011!!


7) Producers you'd like to work with?
My dream collaborator is David Foster. He is a balladeer with a list of hits spanning the last 40 years! Too I'd love to work with Dre & Vidal and Pharell.

8) Dream duets/collaborations?
There are really too many to count, but for now I'll say I'd love to collaborate with Kanye West and Family Force 5


9) As a new singer (sorry if you aren't), which advices would you give to our readers who want to become singer/artists?
My advice for a reader who'd like to become a singer is to practice everyday! This is something I have to be reminded to do, but warming up by doing scales and breathing exercises really polishes your vocal instrument. Second, never aim to be just like someone else; let their style influence you but commit to exploring your unique qualities! Lastly, learn and implement basic business principles in your music career so that you can work smarter, not harder, to share your gift with the world ;) - Spanish Blog IWNM!

1) When did you start having relatuonship with the music?
My relationship with music began as a young girl. My mother was a church choir director, pianist and singer who toured Europe with a group. She made music a major part of myself, my sister and brother's life.

2) When did you know you wanted to be be a professional singer? (turn it into your career)I can't really explain it, but when I was 7 years old I got this feeling that being a singer was for me. I always sang in church and at 11 years old I started in musical theatre and discovered a passion for acting too. Through that training I gained confidence in my singing ability and got very comfortable on stage. I just continued to develop my voice and decided to pursue music from then on.

3) Influences as a young child?¿Influences now?
As a young child I was influenced by a lot of the artists my mom listened to like Sade, Sting, Stevie Wonder, Pieces of A Dream, Chaka Khan and Boney James - I had a healthy exposure to contemporary jazz! Now, I am influenced by culture and people. I'm a people-watcher and love to listen to others' voices and watch them in their interactions. I take those observations and try to create lyrics and music that reflect our human commonalities.

4) Do you write your own songs?
Yes. I write and arrange all of my songs. At one point I was apprehensive to admit this, but then I read an article in which Erykah Badu said she writes all of her music. That really empowered me to be unapologetic in having a similar approach. Though I embrace collaborative songwriting, I really trust myself. I want to make sure that listeners see the exact picture I want to paint.

5) Tell us about Diamond, what's the song about and how was it born?
"Diamond" is my lead single: an anthem to remind women of their self-worth! The song was born out of my desire to put a song on my album that was empowering for girls and women. Since songwriting is also a visual process for me, as soon as I heard the beat, I saw an image of a saddened woman standing in a shallow well. I wanted to give her the confidence to climb out so I started singing "Diamond" to her.


6) Will we hear more music from you? is there an album in talks?
Most definitely! Making music is what I do, and not only is an album in talks, it is finished. My debut album will be available November 11, 2011!!


7) Producers you'd like to work with?
My dream collaborator is David Foster. He is a balladeer with a list of hits spanning the last 40 years! Too I'd love to work with Dre & Vidal and Pharell.

8) Dream duets/collaborations?
There are really too many to count, but for now I'll say I'd love to collaborate with Kanye West and Family Force 5


9) As a new singer (sorry if you aren't), which advices would you give to our readers who want to become singer/artists?
My advice for a reader who'd like to become a singer is to practice everyday! This is something I have to be reminded to do, but warming up by doing scales and breathing exercises really polishes your vocal instrument. Second, never aim to be just like someone else; let their style influence you but commit to exploring your unique qualities! Lastly, learn and implement basic business principles in your music career so that you can work smarter, not harder, to share your gift with the world ;) - Spanish Blog IWNM!

1) Introduce yourself.
Hi, My name is Tenin Baba Ndanani. I’m a singer, songwriter and actress!

2) How did you come up with your stage name?
I was born with it…and I never felt a need to come up with something more clever. Tenin has just always suited me.

3) What sets you apart from other aspiring artists?
Three things: My music is my business and I invest accordingly, I have an amazing team -including family- that is multi-national and committed to excellence, and every song I write has a goal to inspire, empower and entertain.

4) What single or project are you currently pushing?
My current single is “Diamond” – It’s an anthem to remind women of their self-worth! I’m also promoting my album which drops November 11, 2011. It’s a work I am very proud of.

5) What is the philosophy by which you live by?
“The show must go on.” Life is a show and all the world is a stage! Through the good, the bad, the worst and the great you have to keep it moving.

6) Which artists have inspired you to pursue music?
India Arie and Lauryn Hill are two artists who inspired me to pursue music. I have distinct memories of being a teenager, listening to their records in my room and thinking to myself “I could do this.”

7) Who does most of the songwriting?
Me. The arranging is me too. I am very particular about what words and feels people get from my music.

(8) What is your opinion of the current state of the music industry?
Even with the challenges of piracy and limited major label resources, I think the industry is open. Right now, there is so much freedom for gifted artists and songwriters to incorporate as their own labels/agencies, make hot music, promote their brand and get paid. One just needs to create a great package and have a good 18 month promo strategy with the tenacity to see it through.

9) If you could change one thing about the music industry what would it be and why?
If I could change one thing about the music industry I would make songwriters get equal and up-front pay just like producers/beatmakers do. My reasoning kind of hearkens back to the age-old question “What makes a song: the music or lyrics?” Both together make a song work and should be treated equally…especially in my genre -r&b/pop- where songwriters can easily end up jipped.

10) Are there any singers that you would like to collaborate with in the future?
Definitely! Family Force 5, Robyn, Kanye West (though he’s a rapper) and many more!

11) What producer would you like to collaborate with in the future?
David Foster is my dream collaborator – I have great vision for the work we will create. Too, Dre & Vidal and Pharell.

12) What Is your favorite movie and favorite book?
My favorite movie is Legally Blonde and my favorite book is One Thousand and One Nights!

13) What is your favorite part of your live show? How has It evolved?
My live show is being developed as I just brought on my Creative Director and choreographer, Christopher G. Patterson. With him, my favorite part of my live show is the choreography. We’re very sync’d idea-wise and he brings amazing movement and characterization that interprets my songs perfectly. I’m excited for everyone to experience what we’re assembling.

14) What is your Lp going to be like?
My Lp is going to be like a summer evening backyard barbeque with all your mixed-aged-mixed-raced family, and you’re introducing your new boyfriend/girlfriend to everyone but the old one (who you still have kind of have feelings for) is there too, but you don’t really care because you’re high on life and love…complete with paper lanterns, string lights and colorful silk curtains blowing in the night wind! A party of life.

15) Any final words for the people
Cop my joint! Lol..AND PURSUE YOUR PASSION. - Ucombo

TENIN is featured at this international hair blog - Sharon Oke

Tenin Baba Ndanani is an undeniable talent... - Tom Bridegroom

"The education from the ASCAP EXPO was invaluable and I truly endorse it for those who want to get their game up in the music business."
- ASCAP

Her soulful voice, thoughtful lyrics and irrepressible confidence have generated a solid fan base for Tenin Baba Ndanani in her home state of New Jersey over the years, but 2011 looks set to be the biggest year yet for the Harlem-born singer and actress... - Fanen Chiahemen

Nobody puts Tenin Baba Ndanani in a corner.

The rising songbird of Plainfield takes on everything from hip-hop to show tunes on her debut self-titled album.

"I do not want to be regulated to one type of music,'' Tenin said. "I love all the music, and I feel I execute them well enough. I'm not trying to be a rapper, but sometimes there are things that can be said with hip-hop.''

Or with Lady Ga-Ga-ish dance music, like on Tenin's uplifting "Dance Tonight.'' Then there's her Broadway side. Tenin as Sylvia wowed audiences in last year's Plays-in-the-Park presentation of the Elvis jukebox musical "All Shook Up.''

Her Big Mama Thornton version of "Hound Dog'' was a show stopper.

"The first year I went to Plays-in-the-Park, they did "Dreamgirls' the previous year, and they said, "Where were you last year, you could have been Effie!,' '' Tenin said.

Tenin's stylistically diverse album just might help her down the road.

"I want to be able to explore acting and different avenues in film and television and music in addition to being a recording artist,'' Tenin said. "A Broadway producer might hear 'Hound Dog' and some of the other songs have that hip-hop flavor, so it's whatever you're drawn to.''

Tenin, born in Harlem and raised in Plainfield, will host a record release party on Saturday for her album at the city's Crescent Avenue Presbyterian Church.

It's an evening of words and music as Tenin will talk about the songs, which she wrote, and then perform them.

"This really is a dream come true,'' said Tenin, 22.
- www.mycentraljersey.com

Nobody puts Tenin Baba Ndanani in a corner.

The rising songbird of Plainfield takes on everything from hip-hop to show tunes on her debut self-titled album.

"I do not want to be regulated to one type of music,'' Tenin said. "I love all the music, and I feel I execute them well enough. I'm not trying to be a rapper, but sometimes there are things that can be said with hip-hop.''

Or with Lady Ga-Ga-ish dance music, like on Tenin's uplifting "Dance Tonight.'' Then there's her Broadway side. Tenin as Sylvia wowed audiences in last year's Plays-in-the-Park presentation of the Elvis jukebox musical "All Shook Up.''

Her Big Mama Thornton version of "Hound Dog'' was a show stopper.

"The first year I went to Plays-in-the-Park, they did "Dreamgirls' the previous year, and they said, "Where were you last year, you could have been Effie!,' '' Tenin said.

Tenin's stylistically diverse album just might help her down the road.

"I want to be able to explore acting and different avenues in film and television and music in addition to being a recording artist,'' Tenin said. "A Broadway producer might hear 'Hound Dog' and some of the other songs have that hip-hop flavor, so it's whatever you're drawn to.''

Tenin, born in Harlem and raised in Plainfield, will host a record release party on Saturday for her album at the city's Crescent Avenue Presbyterian Church.

It's an evening of words and music as Tenin will talk about the songs, which she wrote, and then perform them.

"This really is a dream come true,'' said Tenin, 22.
- www.mycentraljersey.com

23 years old Nigerian-American, Tenin Baba Ndanani, possesses what some work to develop their entire lives… true and undeniable star quality. With a love for music that started as a child, TENIN has worked hard to establish herself as a Songwriter, Singer & Producer.

With her co-creator and friend - Matthew “Woody” Irby (Phantom Boyz Productions), TENIN has had opportunities to pen lyrics for American Stars like Cheri Dennis, Monica and Danity Kane. With the art of “building a song” down to a science, she has set forth perfecting her lyrics and vocal arrangements in anticipation of the release of her self-titled debut project which will be a blend of R&B, Pop, Hip Hop & Gospel. Infectiously energetic, TENIN writes, “My music will speak to a lot of people. It’s stuff about life that all of us can relate to, and it only elevates you… So you feel stronger after listening!”

Great things are to be expected from TENIN. She is definitely one to watch!
Peep 2 of her tracks ‘Over U’ & ‘I Remember’. I’m luving her voice on these tracks and I can’t wait to hear more from her.
- www.360nobs.com

23 years old Nigerian-American, Tenin Baba Ndanani, possesses what some work to develop their entire lives… true and undeniable star quality. With a love for music that started as a child, TENIN has worked hard to establish herself as a Songwriter, Singer & Producer.

With her co-creator and friend - Matthew “Woody” Irby (Phantom Boyz Productions), TENIN has had opportunities to pen lyrics for American Stars like Cheri Dennis, Monica and Danity Kane. With the art of “building a song” down to a science, she has set forth perfecting her lyrics and vocal arrangements in anticipation of the release of her self-titled debut project which will be a blend of R&B, Pop, Hip Hop & Gospel. Infectiously energetic, TENIN writes, “My music will speak to a lot of people. It’s stuff about life that all of us can relate to, and it only elevates you… So you feel stronger after listening!”

Great things are to be expected from TENIN. She is definitely one to watch!
Peep 2 of her tracks ‘Over U’ & ‘I Remember’. I’m luving her voice on these tracks and I can’t wait to hear more from her.
- www.360nobs.com

Nigerian-American, Tenin Baba Ndanani, possesses at 23 years old, what some work to develop their entire lives… true and undeniable star quality. With a love for music that began as a child, TENIN has worked hard to establish herself as the new female heavyweight: Songwriter, Singer and Producer. With her co-creator and friend, Matthew “Woody” Irby (Phantom Boyz Productions) TENIN has welcomed the opportunities to pen lyrics for Cheri Dennis, Monica and Danity Kane.
With the art of “building a song” down to a science, she has set forth perfecting her lyrics and vocal arrangements in anticipation of the release of her self-titled debut project [a R&B/Pop/Hip Hop /Gospel blend]. Infectiously energetic, TENIN writes, “My music will speak to a lot of people. It’s stuff about life that all of us can relate to, and it only elevates you… So you feel stronger after listening!”
Great things are to be expected from TENIN. She is definitely one to watch! - www.Gidilounge.com

Nigerian-American, Tenin Baba Ndanani, possesses at 23 years old, what some work to develop their entire lives… true and undeniable star quality. With a love for music that began as a child, TENIN has worked hard to establish herself as the new female heavyweight: Songwriter, Singer and Producer. With her co-creator and friend, Matthew “Woody” Irby (Phantom Boyz Productions) TENIN has welcomed the opportunities to pen lyrics for Cheri Dennis, Monica and Danity Kane.
With the art of “building a song” down to a science, she has set forth perfecting her lyrics and vocal arrangements in anticipation of the release of her self-titled debut project [a R&B/Pop/Hip Hop /Gospel blend]. Infectiously energetic, TENIN writes, “My music will speak to a lot of people. It’s stuff about life that all of us can relate to, and it only elevates you… So you feel stronger after listening!”
Great things are to be expected from TENIN. She is definitely one to watch! - www.Gidilounge.com

JERSEY ARTIST, TENIN, TACKLES CHILDHOOD OBESITY THROUGH NEW, HIGH-ENERGY DANCE VIDEO

(Plainfield, NJ – August 21, 2010) Professional singer, songwriter and actress, Tenin Baba Ndanani, will shoot the music video for her high-energy dance single, "Head, Shoulders, Knees, Toes", on Saturday, August 28th, 2010, at Parlay Studios in Jersey City, NJ. Written, performed and produced by Tenin for WBN Productions LLC, this fun, “go-hard” dance video is being done in support of the national Partnership for a Healthier America: Let’s Move! campaign to combat childhood obesity. The music video, conceptualized by Tenin and Tammy Westbrook, is designed to showcase the artist’s love for dance, comedic acting abilities and whimsical flair. Cinematographer and director Rock Davis leads the video production team. A host of professional and non-professional dancers will join the fun, bringing their flavor to the visual mix. The song’s simple lyrics and driving beat are easy to follow, allowing for anyone to get-up and get-moving to "Head, Shoulders, Knees, Toes."

When Tenin learned of Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! campaign, she wanted to do something to help. The inspiration for the song came after parents of children at her alma mater elementary school invited her to present for career day. Tenin was already touring middle and high schools with her one-woman show, “The Miss-Adventures of a Fabulous Phat Girl!”, encouraging young people to overcome low self-esteem and peer pressure, when she decided to make a difference on a larger scale. She researched Let’s Move! and the video project was born. The premiere of the video is being planned in conjunction with back-to-school events across the tri-state area. Tenin is offering a free download of "Head, Shoulders, Knees, Toes" at her website, www.TeninWorld.com, to children who take the Let’s Move! pledge (www.letsmove.gov).

The issue of childhood obesity is personal to Tenin. “I was the fat girl growing up, so I know the struggles that come with it -- feelings of low self-worth, bullying and teasing... “ In particular, Tenin credits her Plainfield High School dance teacher, M.A. Taylor, for awakening her passion for dance that caused her self-confidence to soar. “Dance helped me to overcome my body issues. I want to do what I can to help others, but especially kids, to be free and confident!... get up and move and express themselves!”

The super danceable "Head, Shoulders, Knees, Toes" music track is the work of Tenin’s long-time friend, super producer Matthew “Woody” Irby of Phantom Boyz Music. A creative and self-proclaimed “Jersey Girl”, Tenin is known throughout the tri-state area for her thrilling on-stage performances, playing over five seasons at Edison’s Plays-in-the-Park and, more recently, Bucks County Playhouse in New Hope, PA. Shortly after wrapping this, her first music video, Tenin will grace the stage in The Theatre Project’s production of “Crowns” at Union County College. Tenin is pursuing a degree in theatre and psychology at Kean University.

To learn more about Tenin, visit her website at www.TeninWorld.com. For more information, a press pass or to schedule an interview with Tenin Baba Ndanani, please call Tammy Westbrook at (908) 226-1160 or e-mail info@WBNProductionsllc.com.

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WBN Productions LLC is a faith-based production company that creates positive, culturally-enriching, family-friendly multi-media content that is relevant to contemporary audiences the world over.

- PRLog

JERSEY ARTIST, TENIN, TACKLES CHILDHOOD OBESITY THROUGH NEW, HIGH-ENERGY DANCE VIDEO

(Plainfield, NJ – August 21, 2010) Professional singer, songwriter and actress, Tenin Baba Ndanani, will shoot the music video for her high-energy dance single, "Head, Shoulders, Knees, Toes", on Saturday, August 28th, 2010, at Parlay Studios in Jersey City, NJ. Written, performed and produced by Tenin for WBN Productions LLC, this fun, “go-hard” dance video is being done in support of the national Partnership for a Healthier America: Let’s Move! campaign to combat childhood obesity. The music video, conceptualized by Tenin and Tammy Westbrook, is designed to showcase the artist’s love for dance, comedic acting abilities and whimsical flair. Cinematographer and director Rock Davis leads the video production team. A host of professional and non-professional dancers will join the fun, bringing their flavor to the visual mix. The song’s simple lyrics and driving beat are easy to follow, allowing for anyone to get-up and get-moving to "Head, Shoulders, Knees, Toes."

When Tenin learned of Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! campaign, she wanted to do something to help. The inspiration for the song came after parents of children at her alma mater elementary school invited her to present for career day. Tenin was already touring middle and high schools with her one-woman show, “The Miss-Adventures of a Fabulous Phat Girl!”, encouraging young people to overcome low self-esteem and peer pressure, when she decided to make a difference on a larger scale. She researched Let’s Move! and the video project was born. The premiere of the video is being planned in conjunction with back-to-school events across the tri-state area. Tenin is offering a free download of "Head, Shoulders, Knees, Toes" at her website, www.TeninWorld.com, to children who take the Let’s Move! pledge (www.letsmove.gov).

The issue of childhood obesity is personal to Tenin. “I was the fat girl growing up, so I know the struggles that come with it -- feelings of low self-worth, bullying and teasing... “ In particular, Tenin credits her Plainfield High School dance teacher, M.A. Taylor, for awakening her passion for dance that caused her self-confidence to soar. “Dance helped me to overcome my body issues. I want to do what I can to help others, but especially kids, to be free and confident!... get up and move and express themselves!”

The super danceable "Head, Shoulders, Knees, Toes" music track is the work of Tenin’s long-time friend, super producer Matthew “Woody” Irby of Phantom Boyz Music. A creative and self-proclaimed “Jersey Girl”, Tenin is known throughout the tri-state area for her thrilling on-stage performances, playing over five seasons at Edison’s Plays-in-the-Park and, more recently, Bucks County Playhouse in New Hope, PA. Shortly after wrapping this, her first music video, Tenin will grace the stage in The Theatre Project’s production of “Crowns” at Union County College. Tenin is pursuing a degree in theatre and psychology at Kean University.

To learn more about Tenin, visit her website at www.TeninWorld.com. For more information, a press pass or to schedule an interview with Tenin Baba Ndanani, please call Tammy Westbrook at (908) 226-1160 or e-mail info@WBNProductionsllc.com.

# # #


WBN Productions LLC is a faith-based production company that creates positive, culturally-enriching, family-friendly multi-media content that is relevant to contemporary audiences the world over.

- PRLog