"I know right now it seems like you'll never win You feel like giving in I hope somehow you'll still believe…" "Believe" ~ Jamie Rae 400 dollars. She left Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with 400 dollars, a guitar and a single suitcase, intent on carving her name into the New York City music scene. Through the struggles of following a dream, Jamie Rae cultivated her passion for songwriting and has since found herself performing on stages such as Piano's of the Lower East Side, all the way up to the legendary Apollo Theater in Harlem. A chameleon behind the guitar, she sings whatever passion moves her, the way the music speaks to her--whether it's reflective of a lazy summer afternoon, sitting in the shade with a tall glass of lemonade, or combining a folk melody with a tribal beat, demanding you bob your head. "Conflict in life and love makes for great music," says Jamie, and her songs reflect a myriad of ups and downs through both, illuminating the most difficult relationships with specific imagery and a sound that illustrates intense emotion. A feeling that may last a single, fleeting moment becomes the core of a song and pulses through each lilt of her voice. Her lyrically driven music, inspired by a wide exposure to various genres, creates a unique sound that consistently forges the connection between audience member and performer. Each song is crafted to reflect a specific moment in time and leaves you with a sense of familiarity. For Jamie, though, music is more than just a way to express universal experiences and emotions. She finds great pride in taking her music to benefits and fundraisers to help support worthy causes. The time she devotes to enriching the lives of others is something that drives her and fills the well of her creativity. After her initial run with the USO of Metropolitan New York, Jamie still remains a member of the USO of Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey. "Working with the USO and singing for our veterans has been such a life changing experience for me. As a performer it's one way that I can give back and show my appreciation," said Jamie about her time spent with The United Service Organizations. Jamie's current release, "September Skies," has been a creative journey not only aided by influence of her experiences, but also from those around her. Family, friends, mentors, and occasionally complete strangers have recognized her drive and talent, and with their support, she has released what she calls the, "first project that reflects [her] entirely." She went on to say that, "just about every person involved is so important to me and I really think that shines through every single aspect of this project." When asked what was so different about this CD, Jamie quipped, "I've worked on many projects in the past that left me feeling anxious and unsure. This is the first time I really feel honestly represented. This CD is a true labor of love." With such a pure sound and genuine voice, there's no question that her fans will recognize the passion and unyielding determination that went into crafting her work. Anyone who ever swam against the current to put their stake in business, art, or life itself, will see a glimpse of themselves in Jamie Rae's music and appreciate the diligence of her spirit. "It's been a long time since I knew where I belong I took a journey to find my soul And found the courage to carry on I was lost, but now I know that fate is on my side…" "Any Other Way" ~Jamie Rae