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BET NETWORK’S MUSIC MATTERS SHOWCASE IS THE PERECT CULMINATION TO BET AWARDS 12

NEW TALENTS JENNAH BELL, AUSTIN BROWN, LEAH LABELLE, CHARLES PERRY AND JESSY WILSON PROVE THEY ARE THE NEXT BET MUSIC SUPERSTARS

BET Networks presented the 3rd annual BET Awards Music Matters showcase on Monday, July 2nd at Creative Artists Agency in Los Angeles. The capacity crowd that included Stevie Wonder, Chris Tucker, Spike Lee, Keyshia Cole and her husband Daniel Gibson, Jermaine Dupri, Katherine Jackson, LaToya Jackson and Rebbie Jackson was present to witness the launching of the next BET music superstars.

Gracing the stage were Jennah Bell, Austin Brown, Leah Labelle, Charles Perry and Jessy Wilson who each performed mini sets of their new music and bring the party to the stage.

Jennah Bell

Hailing from Oakland, CA, Jennah Bell is a singer, songwriter and musician whose sounds consist of alternative, folk and soul. Jennah was a student of Berklee College of Music in Boston, where she sharpened her vocal and writing skills. Bell just wrapped a project entitled “Making Music Herstory,” that she hopes will promote the contributions of women in music. Bell is currently living in New York City where she is carving her niche in musical sound. Jennah Bell also performed on the BET AWARDS 12.

Austin Brown

AOL Music recently premiered Austin Brown’s new single “Menage A Trois” and wrote, “Brown is the real deal. After listening to his vocals on this track, we’re sure MJ would be proud.” The MJ they’re referring to is Austin’s late uncle Michael Jackson, who, together with Austin’s mom Rebbie Jackson, encouraged the young singer-songwriter to follow his heart and love of music. “I was lucky to be born into a family that lives and breathes music,” says Austin, “but it’s important that I forge my own path.” Austin’s done just that, developing his skills as a performer and writer, including ghost-writing for several prominent artists. His stunning sound combines the soul and harmony of late 70s R&B with the rhythms of modern electronic pop. Austin is currently putting the finishing touches on his debut album Highway 85, due for release later this year.

Leah Labelle

Leah Labelle is a brave individual who knows her destiny in life. Being persistent and determined got her backstage at a NERD concert to meet Pharell Williams. Once backstage she told him he would one day be producing her music. She wasn’t lying! Her confidence led to her break as a solo act when she signed a joint deal with Epic Records, So So Def and Pharrell’s I Am Other in 2011. The talented vocalist recently released “Sexify,” the lead single from her upcoming studio debut.

Charles Perry

Brooklyn native Charles Perry has a larger-than-life personality with a voice to match. The late Luther Vandross once took then 16 year-old Charles aside to describe his singing as “ferocious” and predicted a long-lasting solo career. Since then, Charles has become a New York Times-worthy singer and has performed along side superstar artists including Michael Jackson, Luther Vandross, Usher, and Whitney Houston. After finishing his recent touring with Blackstreet’s Dave Hollister and British R&B star Estelle, Charles is focused on his upcoming solo album–an epic, electrifying, and barrier-breaking sonic adventure. Charles Perry also performed on the BET AWARDS 12.

Jessy Wilson as a background artist for Alica Keys and John Legend would only be the beginning of her ongoing singing career. Jessy Wilson’s discovered her passion for writing while touring with John Legend, producing Grammy nominated hits. She has co-wrote for many artist such as, Fantasia, Ledisi, Usher, Mario, and Keyshia Cole. Jessy is currently working on her forthcoming album, which is set to release later this year.

About BET Music Matters

Launched in 2010, the BET Music Matters initiative highlights emerging new artists by showcasing their talents through live performances including monthly showcases and the Music Matters Tour. Music Matters has helped propel the careers of artists such as Marsha Ambrosius, J. Cole, Melanie Fiona, Miguel, Estelle, Elle Varner, Eric Roberson, Big K.R.I.T., Kendrick Lamar, Emeli Sande’, Mali Music, Luke James and more.

For more information about Music Matters go to www.bet.com/musicmatters

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