Antonique Smith Receives First Grammy Nomination Debut Music Video “Hold Up Wait A Minute (Woo Woo)”

“Hold Up Wait A Minute (Woo Woo)” is a retro meets future, soul pleaser best described as a liberation song. The rousing anthem showcases Antonique’s dynamic voice which channels the soulfulness of Aretha Franklin with a pop sensibility à la Celine Dion – two of her biggest influences alongside the legendary Whitney Houston. While the song focuses on a tumultuous relationship Smith is quick to point out the universal appeal of its message. “It’s time to take the power back for all the injustices in our lives – from Mike Brown to the kidnapping of innocent Nigerian girls and all the demoralizing issues in between. This is an anthem for people worldwide that demand respect. Hold Up Wait A Minute!”

Love Is Everything arrives in early 2015 via independent label 9:23 Music Group and boasts production from Toby Gad (Beyoncé, Fergie), Danja (Justin Timberlake, Usher), Jukebox (Willow Smith, Eve) and the elusive icon Dr. Dre. “It’s an album that walks you through the full Love Experience.” says Smith. “Hold Up Wait A Minute”, is the Love empowerment experience, it charges you to Love one’s self, and put your foot down on your own injustices. While other songs show Love in different forms, Humility, Compromise and a bit of Tough Love too! I’ve experienced quite a few things and gained a little bit of wisdom. I’m trying to drop some jewels for both women and men as we navigate our way through Life and Love.”  

Antonique will next be heard on the album HOME, a project presented by the Hip Hop Caucus to raise awareness about climate change and “expand the climate movement”. Smith recorded a version of Marvin Gaye’s “Mercy Mercy Me” which serves as the album’s lead single. The collection is available now on iTunes with additional contributions from Common, Ne-Yo and Elle Varner.

Antonique Smith first garnered attention in her buzz-worthy leading role in “RENT” on Broadway as Mimi Marquez. She is most known for her portrayal of Faith Evans in “Notorious” where she received rave reviews and universal critical acclaim. Smith also starred in the 2011 indie drama “Yelling To The Sky” opposite Zoe Kravitz and Gabourey Sidibe and the action film “Abduction” opposite Taylor Lautner andAlfred Molina.