Vanessa J was born on January 15, 1987. She has lived in various parts of the greater Toronto area as she was growing up. From the day she was born, she has had to face adversities, and it certainly did not get any easier as she got older. Vanessa did not have a mother or father growing up, but her throughout her childhood, she was raised by her grandparents and aunts. It was at the age of seven where Vanessa learned that she could sing. "My first song that I ever sang was, "Hey Mr. DJ", by Zhane. After Vanessa's grandmother died, she then faced an even darker road ahead of her. She was sent to live with an aunt who was set to make her life miserable. After being put down and hurt many times, Vanessa used music as her saving grace. She began writing at the age of fourteen, and took part in talent shows or any other project that was in relation to music. Her musical influences include Mary J. Blige, Atlantic Starr, Stevie Wonder, Young Jeezy, and many other classic R and B and Hip Hop artists. Living with a family member who did not want her to succeed, at the age of 16, she left her aunt's home. With no idea where to go, and not being able to continue to endure the pain and suffering that was being inflicted upon her, she left. "I had to face the real world, and alone at that", she says. Since living on her own, she has seen things she wishes she hadn't seen, and experienced greater pain as she is already used to. Although she was born to lose, she was built to win. Vanessa evidently reveals her thoughts and feelings through her music, and will continue to master her crafted talent. She is strong,ambitious,courageous,and is ready to show what real music is. Through her journey, it has made her old in mind, but still young at heart. She is determined to let the city and the rest of the world know that she is the best kept secret. And if you don't know who this soul survivor is, you will by the end of each song. Her name? Vanessa J