I. Am. Kiyoné.

Authentic. Tenacious. Fun.

These are the words that describe Kiyoné, aka Tawnie Shorter. Kiyoné, being her middle name given her Japanese heritage means, "PURE SOUND or HOLY VOICE".

As a child, Kiyoné spent her summers at musical theatre camp which sparked an early interest not only in music but performing. Growing up in a musical family, she was exposed to a variety of genres which aided in a greater appreciation for music. Some of her favorites include rap, Whitney Houston ballads, Bruno Mars, and Michael Jackson.

Countless theater productions. Local holiday performances. Dozens of voice and dance competitions which she championed. Kiyoné even spent four years taking classical voice lessons allowing her to learn to sing in German, Italian, Spanish, and French. Not to mention all while attending a performing arts high school. Because performing to her "is magical." And while most teens are relaxing on the weekends, Sundays are dedicated for rehearsal time. Commitment means everything to Kiyoné and her ferocious talent proves that.

Writing and recording her first single for her parent's fitness company was the catalyst Kiyoné needed to pursue her musical aspirations of becoming a singer/songwriter - which she completed in under just two hours. And while songwriting is often used as an emotional outlet, Kiyoné is strict on keeping it positive and uplifting.

Despite Kiyoné's immeasurable maturity and dedication for her age, she loves spending time binge-watching Disney movies and dabbling in her cartoonist skills. And without sounding too cliche, Kiyoné's life is surrounded by her creative expression. Whether it's singing, acting, dancing, writing, doing make up, or drawing. Everything about her life revolves around her ability to create something out of nothing. Kiyoné's even been sketching and designing her own birthday cakes since she could draw.

Currently, Kiyoné is working alongside musician/producer Jae Chong and Jujuan Gailey and has ambitions to release her first album later this year in addition to debuting her first music video.