June 19, 2006 @ 10:00 am

Megan Rochell

by: Elon Johnson

“I don’t want people to think that I’m a stuck-up artist,” she says. “Just because I’m pretty and I dress nice onstage, that doesn’t mean everything is peaches and cream. I didn’t grow up with a silver platter.” It’s just that when your career starts popping, you may need to step up your gear game. Tonight Rochell’s hitting the stage at Hollywood’s legendary House of Blues as the opener for towering teen sensation Chris Brown. And as promising as that may sound, it also means that she’s the one delaying the entrance of a true idol. Luckily, Rochell, 20, knows a thing or two about getting people to like her. It didn’t take long for the Philadelphia-based songstress to make a fan out of Philly icon Nathan Morris (Boyz II Men), who promptly became her manager following an impromptu performance on South Street in 2004. “There’s something about Megan’s spirit that just attracts people to her,” says Morris. “The music becomes an extra additive after you meet her.” And with Morris at her side, Rochell was put to the test again when she performed for Island/Def Jam chairman Antonio “L.A.” Reid in 2005. Once more, she passed muster, earning a record deal. Still Rochell isn’t solely relying on her looks, winning personality, or talent. “It’s that Brooklyn ethic that keeps me going,” she says modestly. “People like Biggie inspired me to stand up and be who I am and to do whatever it takes to get where I need to be.” And you can bet Rochell’s B.I.G. thinking carries over to her forthcoming debut, You, Me & the Radio. From the breezy Rodney Jerkins–produced “The One You Need,” featuring Fabolous, to the soulful Gladys Knight–sampled “Heartbreak,” Rochell creates a vivacious sound track chock-full of infectious pop hooks. The formula seems to please the tough House of Blues crowd. After her set, a visibly relieved Rochell pauses to put things in perspective. “Things are happening so fast right now,” she says amid the high-pitched screams for tonight’s headliner. But she seems confident that her day will come. “There are a lot of female artists out, but my music is like an intimate invitation to get to know me. I’m sure I’ll be able to set myself apart."

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Article tags: Megan Rochell, Megan Rochell And Fabolous, Megan Rochell 

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