Biography of Amanda Marshall

Born in Toronto in 1973 to Canadian-Trinidadian parents, Amanda Marshall was influenced by the Caribbean rhythms of her mother's heritage, and began performing at amateur nights around the city when she was just 18. Attending one performance was Jeff Healey, who became very impressed by the young singer's intensity. Healey recruited her for his upcoming tour, and Marshall later toured with Tom Cochrane as well before signing a contract with Sony Music Canada in 1995. She contributed her rendition of "Don't Let It Bring You Down" to the Neil Young tribute album Borrowed Tunes, and released her self-titled album in 1996, with production help from David Tyson. On the back of its single "Birmingham," Amanda Marshall placed in the American charts as well as those of her native Canada. ~ John Bush