A lifelong performer, Mariella Gonzalez began her career as a dancer performing with such notables as Hank Williams jr, and Sergio Mendes. She has been a featured performer at the Superbowl, Sugarbowl, and jazz festivals around the country. Although dance led her to the arts, it was music that really stirred her soul. In 2002 Mariella began collaborating with friends, musicians and producers and discovered her voice as a soulful vocalist and a poignant songwriter. She has been the recipient of Billboard World Songwriting Contest honors for both Urban Summer-Honorable Mention, and first place finish for "Flyaway". The Mariella Show then went on to sweep the competition to become Billboard's 2008 grand prize winner. She is also the co-creator and co-host of "Freestyle Mondays", a critically acclaimed hip-hop open mic session attracting a who's who of emcees, musicians, and singers. Mariella has been featured on Telemundo, BET, MNN, and various publications and webzines. In addition to rockin "Freestyle Mondays", Mariella has graced the stages of many of NYC's top venues including Sol Village at SOB's, Joe's Pub, Blue Note Jazz Club, Piano's , Crash Mansion, Lion's Den, SouthPaw, CBGB's Gallery, Bowery Poetry Club, BB King's, Soho 323, and the famed Summerstage music series opening for Grammy nominated latin funk band "Yerba Buena". In 2006 Mariella returned to Summerstage as a principle actress in the musical Bricolage showcasing her dynamic range as a singer,dancer,and actor. Mariella's love of Jazz, hip hop, soul, and latin are evident in her vocal stylings as well as her lyrics. Mariella's discography is diverse with projects ranging from Afro-cuban, latin, hip hop, soul, jazz, house, and downtempo. After completing a 3 month residency and studio projects in China, and Hong Kong she is releasing her debut LP this summer.