UB Spotlight: Tenelle Talks ‘American Song Contest’

Last night on NBC‘s “America’s Song Contest,” the qualifier round concluded, hosted by Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson. With original music to compete to win the country‘s vote for best hit song.

The Semi-Finals will take place Monday, April 25th & May 2nd.

One of last nights performers, was the amazing Tenelle Luafalemana; who’s been described by many as “a breath of fresh air.”

Tenelle isn’t exactly sure when her love for singing first started, but suggests that growing up with a big family, where talent shows are more competitive than the “X-Factor” itself, may have well done it.

Tenelle describes her home of Samoa as magical and as a child, recalls listening to artists such as Lauryn Hill, Fiji, Whitney Houston, Betty Wright and Aswad. Tenelle is now a Grammy Award-nominated and Billboard-charted artist.

She’s honored to represent American Samoa, her family and the entirety of her people.

Her music video “Shine” was shot on her grandmother‘s property, where her grandmother lives, and where her ancestors are buried. She was honored to share their story.

Last night Tenelle performed her fire single “Full Circle.”

Fans at home can vote for their favorite performances on nbc.com/ascvote, the NBC App and on TikTok. Voting will close Wednesday morning.

Tenelle spoke with Aries from UB about what kind of album she would release right now.