“Experiences make us stronger.”

Jeannie Ortega, a young, up and coming R&B recording artist, among other talents, is a testament to that old saying. Growing up in the Bushwick section of Brooklyn, New York, she did not live an easy childhood. Witnessing tragedy at a young age made her realize that life was not like it was portrayed in the movies. With a rough childhood, battling with depression and trying to find her way in the world, Jeannie found music to be her savior. As a young child, she listened to Mariah Carey and other R&B artists. They seemed to open up a whole new world. A world she thrived in.

At the age of eight, Jeannie wrote her first song, “Shine Like Me.” She also performed in a kiddie band called “Sugar and Spice” in local Brooklyn parks when she was young. Even at a young age, it seemed success had been embedded in her. A self-proclaimed old soul; “I feel like a forty-year-old trapped in a twenty-year-old’s body,” Jeannie says.

She later moved on to become part of the Brooklyn School of the Arts’ first graduating class. From there, she became a singer, song-writer, dancer, and actress. Her first big break was when her song “Got What It Takes” was on the soundtrack of “Love Don’t Cost A Thing.” Jeannie was then signed to Hollywood Records.

In 2005, she released her second single “It’s Our Time,” featuring Gemstar, N.O.R.E., and Big Mato. Now, she’s on her way to well-deserved fame. “Crowded” and “So Done” were popular hits from her 2006 “No Place Like Brooklyn” album, which happens to be a homage to “The Wizard of Oz.” When asked where her home is, she says, “Any where my loved ones are.”

Jeannie’s first single “Crowded” hit the Top 40 charts. It’s an anthem for anyone who has been pissed off by a significant other. She spent the summer touring with Rihanna, who she describes as a sweetheart, on a nationwide tour. If music was not enough, she now adds actress to her resume, appearing in the films “Step Up” and an independent film entitled “Indelible.”

These days, Jeannie’s fans inspire her to create more. She would like them to know that she is just like them – normal, down to earth, and very emotional. We should expect more albums and acting in her future, as well as seeing her as the new face of 100% Love perfume coming soon. What are Ms. Ortega’s New Year’s resolutions?

“To keep going until I have done everything I have wanted and more,” Jeannie says.

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Jeannie shares the recipe for her success in a brief interview with STOMP Fashion Magazine.

Q: So what is the secret to your success?

A: Putting God first and always believing in myself.

Q: What is your personal definition of success?

A: Doing what you love doing and being able to help others while you do it.

Q: Did you know at a young age that you were destined for fame?

A: I don’t know why, but it must have been embedded in me from birth. I always knew.

Q: There’s an old saying that says, “Everything happens for a reason.” Do you believe this to be true?

A: Yes, I do.

Q: How did growing up in Brooklyn influence your music?

A: Well, I believe it influences the entire style of music, especially the attitude. There is a realness to it that completely represents Brooklyn.

Q: If you could go back and give yourself advice as a child, what would it be?

A: That you can’t be everyone’s superman.

Q: Was there a moment you realized you had arrived?

A: When I ran into a group of old friends and they said, “Jean, you made it.”

Q: What was your first big purchase?

A: First month’s rent and security on a new apartment.

Q: What makes your heart beat quicker?

A: The thought of losing it all.