Growing up, Denise Preston was raised on the soulful sounds of the 60’s and 70’s. Being exposed to what was considered “real music,” she began to be influenced and especially intrigued by the power this music wielded. The reaction from just the intro being played of the songs at house parties, picnics, barbecues, and various family and social gatherings was mesmerizing. The feelings, expressions and how moods were altered by the lyrics recited was an awesome experience to her and even at an early age, she wanted to possess that ability also.
Denise Preston was equally influenced by gospel. Her grandfather was a minister and pastor of a local neighborhood church. She witnessed and experienced there also how songs, sung with conviction and being spirit-filled, touches those within the sound of the voice singing. The church is where her singing began. Her grandfather always requested (sometimes insisted) that she sing on an often basis. At an early age, she became comfortable singing in the presence of others. She sang hymns traditionally but because of the R&B influences, she began to fuse the two styles ultimately creating her own sound. Nothing disrespectful, but Denise Preston wanted to be distinct with her vocal abilities that were developing.
Ironically, as Denise Preston began to sing more R&B music, she pulled more from her gospel influences to make it more “soulful.” Not one to limit herself, she soon began to study the art of jazz and vocal variations thereof. She fused that style also to increase her vocal versatility. Throughout her formative years, she received requests as a guest soloist for various community activities and weddings. Denise Preston attended FAMU and during her freshman year she was nonchalantly singing and maintained the audience of a FAMU Gospel Choir member. This chance meeting led to a recommended audition with the musical director and Denise Preston joining the choir for her entire college tenure. The constant insistence, encouragement, compliments and awareness of her God-given talent, Denise Preston decided to pursue her career professionally.
Denise Preston is currently developing herself as an artist under the management of SCARCE 1 Entertainment by taking frequent voice coaching and participating in local venues to further gain exposure and increase repeat performances. To her credit, Denise Preston has been asked on occasion to sing the National Anthem at the local state league baseball team’s home game in addition to spring training games for the New York Mets. Denise Preston also had the opportunity to be the featured vocalist for the opening of an Art Gallery. She continues to sing at weddings, anniversaries, parties, and various social events as requested.
