Biography

Becky Baeling is part of a new generation of disco revivalists, bringing back the sultry grooves and party-all-the-time vibes of late-‘70s and early-‘80s club music. Born in Madonna's hometown of Rochester, Michigan, Baeling started taking dance lessons at the age of three; by the time she was five she had already written her own musical. Four years later she acquired the lead role in the renowned stage musical Annie, playing her for eight months. Baeling also sang with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. After earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Michigan, she left for London, England and attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, honing her theatrical skills. Baeling then moved to New York City, performing in jazz clubs and singing on TV commercials for Slim Fast and Coca Cola; in addition, she appeared in various stage productions. Influenced by disco divas like Gloria Gaynor and Donna Summer, as well as Broadway favorites like Liza Minnelli, Baeling began recording music of her own: high-energy pop with dramatic, soulful vocals, a combination of her club and theatrical inspirations. Baeling was eventually signed to Universal Records, landing a spot on The Guru movie soundtrack with "I'm Gonna Fly" in early 2003. "If You Love Me," produced by Jessica Simpson and Celine Dion veteran Anders Bagge, was included on the Global Hits 2003 compilation and debuted at number nine on Billboard's dance charts, peaking at number three. The follow-up, "Getaway," scored even higher, reaching the top. On June 24, 2003, Baeling released her debut album, Becstasy, immediately drawing comparisons to Madonna because of her sensual image, glossy, upbeat disco-fueled pop songs, and reliance on top-drawer producers to shape her sound. She later performed a duet with Brian McKnight on the Fox Channel's Summer Music Mania. ~ Michael Sutton, Rovi