UMiami’s Rising Musical Talent: Natalie Ann

by: Scott Roth (University of Maryland Alumni)

Perhaps the biggest hurricane brewing in Miami lately hasn’t had much to do with the weather at all, but rather one student that’s taking singing and song writing to the next level. The twenty-one year old Natalie Ann is a full-time student at the University of Miami that is quickly gaining attention for her musical talents. Her pop/rock demo has been well received with hits such as “Something’s Wrong” and the upbeat “Crush”.

The success for Natalie has not come over night, but with years of hard work. Performing first at the age of 10, she has continued to steadily sharpen her craft.  She says, “It’s all I ever wanted to do since I was born. I was given the opportunity, and now I’m just going with it!” Performing in six languages, a stand out dancer, with captivating looks and a gifted multi-range voice are all apart of what makes Natalie Ann who she is.

The Manhattan born musician grew up in Tenafly, New Jersey performing theater, making television appearances such as NBC’s Morning Show and even lending her vocals on Broadway’s Les Miserables Soundtrack. Being half Israeli, Natalie traveled to Tel Aviv for most of her summer’s where she recently performed with the Israeli Defense Force on Israeli Independence Day as well as at the Maccabi Games.

While studying at Miami, Natalie was introduced to David Bitton, a local DJ that’s been spinning in South Florida for years. David Bitton, known as DJ DBits grew up in New York and Florida and picked up deejaying while studying abroad in Australia. His ear for great music paired with his heavy studies of turntablism has made him a staple to nightlife in and around Miami. In November of 2009, Natalie met David while shooting the video for “Crush” and the DJ was “blown away by her talent.” “She is extremely dedicated and it’s no surprise why everyone that meets her instantly becomes a fan”, says David.

Realizing Natalie Ann’s potential, David teamed up with her and became her manager and live DJ. Utilizing his knowledge of the music industry and music itself, David has been an asset in bringing Natalie’s music to more listeners. There is a definite sense of excitement surrounding Natalie Ann as she’s poised to take her career to the next level. She takes great pride in her work and most importantly in “expressing myself through my own works and getting my own music out there” says Natalie. When asked how music has impacted her life thus far she replied “It’s my love, it’s my passion, it’s just who I am.”

Natalie will be performing live Thursday and Saturday night in New York City at Tenjune and Greenhouse respectively.  Find out more about Natalie Ann including downloads of her singles and the video for “Crush” at www.thenatalieann.com. Join the Campus Socialite as we kick off a weekend of great performances by Natalie Ann on Thursday (Jan 7) at Tenjune with resident DJ Carlos Mélange and DJ DBits.