By Esther Sanchez
The Coachella Valley has become a notorious hub and breeding ground for artists of all sorts; one of the most underrated and least known on the scene is 21 year-old R&B vocalist and aspiring actress, Porsia Camille. Considering the sheer vocal talent, obvious physical beauty and charming personality she possesses, there is little doubt in my mind that her obscurity will not continue much longer.
Born and raised in the desert, the 21 year-old Cathedral City High School alumni refined her vocal chops by participating in school choirs since childhood. Porsia Camille: “I’ve been singing since I was a little girl in choirs since elementary school, but I think it was around my junior year of high school was when I realized I could actually make a career out of it. That’s when I really started putting in the effort.”
Porsia continues: “My choir teacher started getting me gigs outside of school. Back then it was mostly musical theater and classical stuff which I didn’t particularly enjoy but I know it was really beneficial for me to have that foundation.”
Over the past several years, in addition to pursuing a solo career, Porsia has been recording and performing backup vocals and hooks for various local artists including rapper Larry Shaw of LnS and pop singer, Cakes who describes Porsia Camille as, “…one of the most talented singers in the desert.” Porsia has also performed with local favorites, Avenida.
Josiah Gonzales (keyboard player for Avenida): “We’ve been playing with Porsia for about 4 years in some capacity or another (she went to high school and sang with our brother Sam). She is the consummate professional. Always ready to perform, she is just as comfortable powering through soulful leads as she is adding depth with perfectly complementing background vocals. She can do it all and adds style and presence wherever she sings. We love playing with her and greatly appreciate all she adds to the Valley’s music scene.”
Gonzales is not blowing smoke when he speaks of her presence and sheer talent. The first time I heard Porsia’s vocals I was truly blown away by not only her range and abilities, but the uniqueness and pure, soulful beauty in her tone that seems absolutely effortless. There is something hauntingly old-fashioned yet completely modern in her singing style that is only amplified by her pixie-like, exotic beauty and undeniable charm. With a new album coming out this year and continued performances as both a soloist and backup vocalist, I encourage music lovers of all tastes to check out Porsia Camille so you can say you knew her way back when.
Check out Porsia Camille live this Thursday, June 23rd Performing along with Eevaan Tre for the Coachella Valley Art Scene at “Make” in the Westfield Shopping Town in Palm Desert.
Check out Porsia’s music and find out about booking and upcoming gigs on:
www.soundcloud.com/porsia-camille
