WHO: Siedah Garrett.
HITS WE LOVE: “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You,” (with Michael Jackson), “Don’t Look Any Further” (with Dennis Edwards).
HOMETOWN: Los Angeles, California.
WHAT SHE’S UP TO NOW: Working on lyrics for an upcoming animated film with Sergio Mendes, writing for Lionel Richie and Ledisi, among others, and putting together a memoir which will include details of her touring with Michael Jackson, Madonna, Quincy Jones and others.
THE STORY: The L.A.-based singer/songwriter got her big break by meeting Quincy Jones. Since then, things have only gotten better for Garrett. She’s been the duet partner for both Michael Jackson and former Temptations singer Dennis Edward on two of their most memorable hits. She’s worked with a wide variety of artists and won a Grammy in 2008 for co-writing “Love You I Do” for Jennifer Hudson in “Dreamgirls.”
Garrett told SingersRoom.com that her success has been the byproduct of her ability to stay on top of what she does. “Learn your craft,” she told the site when asked what advice she’d give to those aspiring to follow in her platinum footsteps. “Know what a good song is. Know the formula for proper songwriting. Just listen and learn your craft. The second thing would be perseverance; perseverance is a must.”
That perseverance obviously paid off for Garrett. Her lengthy discography stretches back to 1984, and she’s had credits on albums from Quincy Jones to Pebbles to Donna Summer. Not only did she duet and tour with Jackson; she co-wrote “Man In the Mirror,” one of his signature hits. She’s also been both a singer and dancer on Madonna’s 2004 “Re-Invention” tour and has worked with her on other projects. Garrett joined the Brand New Heavies for one project – their 1998 “Shelter” release. She’s released two of her own projects “Kiss of Life” in 1998 and a self-titled 2003 release.
Of course, her relationship with Jackson came under scrutiny after his death, when the world media descended on her for any insight or gossip. Garrett’s best response was simply to head to the music they created together to pay tribute to her friend and collaborator. Check out her musical tribute to Jackson with the Agape church choir here.
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