Ethiopian born Wayna Wondwossen started her career as a speech writer for Bill Clinton and enjoyed success as a writer and activist in the Washington, D.C. area before pursuing her dream to become a singer. In January 2004, while performing at The Temple Bar in Santa Monica, CA, the former beauty pageant winner and her band were joined by special guest Stevie Wonder who praised her by saying "Her voice reminds me of Syreeta, she's incredible". He was so impressed by her vocals and lyrics that he invited her to collaborate with him on his upcoming launch of an independent label. In November 2004 she released "Moments of Clarity: Book 1" on her own independent label. The album features production from Kev Brown (formerly of DJ Jazzy Jeff's A Touch of Jazz Productions), DJ Roddy Rod and guest artists W. Ellington Felton, K'Alyn, Cy Young and Theodros Taddesse. She says of this album "I've poured some of the hardest lessons I have had to learn into these songs - feelings that I am still sorting through, and the music helps with that".

I try not make comparisons with other artists but I can't help myself. When I first heard her I immediately thought of Erykah Badu and Vivian Green. She lists her musical influences as Minnie Riperton, Billie Holiday, Curtis Mayfield and Donny Hathaway. Visit her website to learn more. If you can't find her CD locally, it is available at CD Baby.

Moments of Clarity
1. So Long Heartache ft. W. Ellington Felton
2. This Ol' Grudge
3. Mama's Sacrifice
4. Doubting Destiny
5. Straight Up ft K'Alyn
6. Rose Colored Glasses
7. Exposed with Cy Young
8. Slums of Paradise
9. Secret Identity
10. Desperation Days ft. Theodros Taddesse
11. Past Future Eternal
12. Redemption Song