Cassie :: Must Be Love

Cassie was born in New London, Connecticut, to a Filipino father and a mother of African American, West Indian and Mexican descent. She graduated from The Williams School, a preparatory school in New London, Connecticut. When she completed high school in 2004, she announced that she would pursue her career in modeling and singing, forgoing college. As an artist, Cassie often voiced that she is musically influenced and inspired by a number of performers. These include Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Selena, Aaliyah, Sade, Mariah Carey, Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, Stevie Wonder, Nine Inch Nails and Queen of Latin Soul singer La Lupe. After high school, she moved to New York City and continued modeling, as well attending classes at the Broadway Dance Center. Meanwhile, music producer Ryan Leslie spotted her at clubs and parties in late 2004 frequently. Shortly after a formal introduction to Ryan Leslie, Cassie became the focus of NextSelection. The two wrote a duet called "Kiss Me" and after recording the track, Next Selection made a management move to play the song for music executive Tommy Mottola. Leslie also co-wrote and produced Cassie's first single, "Me & U".