Mikaila

Mikaila emerged as yet another young performer bringing hip-hop elements into the realm of teen pop. She first began singing at the age of four, then relocated with her family from her birthplace in Edmond, OK, to Dallas, where she performed the national anthem at various sporting events and became a familiar presence at Texas Rangers games. Manager Marty Rendleman, already known for guiding teen country singer LeAnn Rimes, soon discovered her talent and helped secure national bookings that included a notable appearance at Carnegie Hall. Def Jam, the hip-hop label, subsequently offered her a recording contract. In 2001 the 14-year-old stepped into the saturated teen pop scene with her self-titled debut album, convinced that her hip-hop tinged sound would set her apart from her contemporaries.