Shanelle Gabriel has been labeled a virtuosa, and she definitely validates that statement as a soulful singer, a gifted writer, astounding actress, and advocate for Lupus awareness. Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, she has displayed her skills at colleges and venues both nationally and internationally.

Shanelle both opened and featured on the 6th season premier of HBO's Def Poetry Jam along with Jill Scott and DMX. She recorded a nationally televised promo for the 2007 NFL Draft. She shared the stage with Nas for his 2008 album release concert for "The N Word," and featured in Q-Tip's video for "ManWomanBoogie." Along with two other poets, Shanelle is presently a part of Lincoln Center's "Meet the Artist Series" presenting poetry to grades 3 through 12.  She was a member of the 2006 Nuyorican Poets Cafe National Slam Team and a competitor in the 2007 Individual World Poetry Slam Competition. Shanelle has also performed and worked with artists such as  Les Nubians, Erick Sermon, and with comedians such as Rob Stapleton and Michael Blackson.

Shanelle got her early start showcasing her talents in church. As she grew as an artist, she had lead roles in productions of The Vagina Monologues and Macbeth. At the Utica College Auditorium she performed as both a singer and actress while earning her B.A. in Communication Arts with a minor in Business Management. She was a Def Jam College promoter and a leading radio personality on WPNR 90.7 FM.

In the summer of 2004, Shanelle was diagnosed with SLE Lupus. However, she decided that her health would not be something that would limit her success. Using that as her fuel, she decided that she would pursue her dreams and encourage others who have obstacles in their path to do the same. She states, "My battle with Lupus has been tedious, but God has a plan. That plan does not include giving up on life. I want to be a testimony to others that no matter what, faith and determination can accomplish any goal."

Shanelle presently tours the US and abroad, facilitates creative writing workshops throughout New York City and promotes Lupus awareness. Her amazing debut album, Start Something (winner of the 2008 Atlantic City Alternative Soul Best CD Award) fuses Shanelle's skill at spoken word poetry with her soulful, sultry singing. Using her upbeat pop, old school hip-hop, and inspirational soul sound, Shanelle's vibrant personality shines through each word and melody she shares.

For information on events and booking please email her at shanellegabriel@gmail.com

Shanelle is available for performances, workshops, lectures, and other speaking engagements.

Previous Workshop Topics:

Spoken Word as a Ministry

Women and the Media

How to Really Rock the Mic – The Art of Performing

Communication Arts- Deeper than Talking

Teen Talk- Love in Three Forms (Life, Others, and Self)

Finding Your SELF in Your Sorority

(Open to other topics as needed)