CHELLO Chello Holliday is a seasoned vocalist, bandleader, and entertainer whose journey through the music industry has spanned decades and crossed continents. Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in the vibrant heart of New York City, Cello has lived and breathed music his entire life. His career began in the early 1980s when he joined forces with close friends who would become the legendary Force MDs—a pioneering R&B/hip-hop group signed to Tommy Boy Records in 1984. With smash hits topping the charts in 1986 and 1987, the group made a lasting impact on the music scene. Cello was hired as the musical director for the Force MDs, leading their live performances during major national tours at the height of their success. After his time with the Force MDs, Cello stepped into the spotlight as a solo performer. He auditioned for Amateur Night at the Apollo Theater—a proving ground for musical greats—and took first place, with Steve Harvey as the host that night. This major win led to a recording deal with Carver Entertainment, an independent label that believed in Cello’s star power. His debut music video was filmed in Miami Beach, and the single, “Domino,” became a highly requested video in Puerto Rico in 2000. Emboldened by his growing success, Chello Hollyday went fully independent, writing and performing original music and opening for major artists such as DMX, Ashanti, Nelly, Joan Osborne, and many more. Along the way, he shared stages and memories with rising stars—including a young Alicia Keys, whom he met when she was just 17. His best friend, Gerald Flowers, later joined Keys’ creative team, and Chello was part of early showcases that contributed to her rise to fame. Today, Chello continues to share his voice and passion for music as a beloved entertainer throughout the Tampa Bay area, bringing joy, nostalgia, and timeless talent to every stage he touches. With a career rooted in authenticity, resilience, and soul, Chello Hollyday remains a powerful presence in the world of live performance and music history.
CIENNA ALIDA Cienna Alida is a versatile and acclaimed Latin GRAMMY nominated album executive and vocalist from Boston, Massachusetts, know for her soulful voice and dynamic performances. She gained recognition as the lead singer for Jose Valentino, a multi-Latin GRAMMY and EMMY award-winning artist, and fronts the R&B/Jazz band Jose Valentino & Cienna Alida featuring The Eternal Power. Cienna also collaborates with Latin GRAMMY award-winning and nominated artists like El G.Nie and Bruno Miranda.
Her commitment to meaningful causes is evident through her work as a vocalist for Arts in Medicine at the University of Florida. Recognized as the best vocalist in Tampa in 2024, Cienna has performed at prestigious festivals and shared the stage with renowned musicians, including multi-GRAMMY award-winning trumpeter Charlton Singleton. She has also opened for artists such as Jonathan Butler and sung the National Anthem at high-profile events like Tampa Bay Buccaneers games.
Cienna's talent has been featured in media outlets like Canvas Rebel Magazine and on radio stations such as 88.5FM in Tampa, broadening her reach and impact. With a vocal style influenced by legends like Whitney Houston, Jazmine Sullivan, and Aretha Franklin, Cienna's mission is to inspire, uplift, and provide solace through her powerful performances, leaving a lasting impact on her audience.
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