Zhane sang Friday night at the annual tree lighting ceremony at the National Harbor. The Make-a-Wish Foundation arranged for the 12-year-old Lorton resident, who was diagnosed before birth with sickle-cell anemia, to kick off the holiday season and grant her “wish” to meet with a famous recording producer. When did you first start singing and realize that you had talent?
I’ve been singing since I was 3 years old. I used to have this Barbie radio and I used to sing into the microphone, and as I’ve grown up I’ve gotten better and people told me I was good. I usually practice with the Washington Performing Arts and also the Shiloh Baptist Church in Lorton.
Have you sang in public in front of lots of people before?
Yes I have. I sang for the Washington Mystics at the Verizon Center and for the [Prince George’s County Chamber of Commerce Excellence in Business Awards] Ball.
Do you get nervous?
Once in a while but not really often. I’m usually just thinking of giving a good performance. I feel really excited and happy and proud. I hope that I have a good performance and it will be really fun and they will enjoy me singing.
What do you like most about singing in public before large crowds?
I like it because I share with other people and I love to sing and that’s my talent. I want to be a singer. My favorite artists are Whitney Houston, Andrea Bocelli, Mariah Carey, Billie Holiday and Michael Jackson. They all have a great voice and they have a richness to their voice.
What message would you give to kids your age who might be scared to perform in front of large crowds?
They can pray about it and let God give them the strength so they can realize their dreams.
–Steve Contorno
