R&B artist Stacy Barthe, a native of Long Island, New York, began her gradual ascent in the music industry as a songwriter and background vocalist in 2008, when she signed with Universal Music Publishing Group and co-wrote the song "Blur" for Britney Spears' Circus album. Barthe soon became a frequently spotted name on composer credits for songs by high-profile artists such as Cheryl Cole ("Heaven"), Katy Perry ("Hummingbird Heartbeat"), Rihanna (the number seven hit "Cheers [Drink to That]"), Kelis ("22nd Century"), Estelle ("Speak Ya Mind"), Alicia Keys (two songs on Girl on Fire), and T.I. ("Sorry"). As a solo artist, she has released a number of independent projects, including Sincerely Yours, Stacy Barthe (featuring appearances from Frank Ocean and Luke James, 2010), In the Inbetween (2012), and P.S. I Love You (2013). After Sincerely Yours (2014), Barthe signed to the storied Motown label and released BEcoming (2015). The album featured guest appearances from Common and John Legend. ~ Andy Kellman