Valerie is a singer and songwriter whose musical focus lies with Rhythm and Praise. She began “Inspired by Valerie Music & Entertainment” as a result of searching for meaning and purpose in her life. Her personal testimony of sacrifice and surrender can be heard in the expressive tones of a voice that ranges from high Alto to 2nd Soprano. Valerie’s music is based upon a foundation created by a lifetime of faith and perseverance. Her music is a refreshing opportunity for praise and worship. Mother, Wife, Widow. In 2005, her best friend and oldest son, Christopher, became ill. He battled for two years with cancer before accepting his heavenly invitation to dwell in eternity. Shortly thereafter, her confidant, backbone, supporter, and husband Elgin also accepted the hand of Christ after suffering from cancer, and joined their son Christopher. Tower of Strength. While both Elgin and Christopher suffered from long term illness, their faith and trust in God was beyond imagination. After their passing, Valerie attempted to resume her day to day existence. But it became apparent that there must be more meaning to her experience. She wrestled with following the desires in her heart to express herself musically. She began to question God and seek His direction. In the midst of prayer, melodies filled her heart with words that gave her comfort and guidance. Out of the struggle of pain and sorrow rose a voice for praise and inspiration. Determined. Valerie desires to share her story as a way of expressing God’s love and redeeming power to the world. Her music, entertainment, and writings are designed to motivate and encourage others with the message that a determination to remain focused in the face of adversity will always lead to true purpose and fulfillment, as God intends. Giving & Purposeful. Beyond the music, Valerie is working toward establishing memorials for her husband Elgin and their son Christopher. She is the author of “Dear Chris, Conversations with My Son”, a memoir in honor of Christopher Jermaine Smith (www.dearchristhebook.com). The book is a series of letters that expose true emotions and the strength gained while caring for her terminally ill son and husband. Proceeds from the book will be used to establish an educational scholarship program for African-American males with physical disabilities. “LeBaron Lights”, to be named in honor of Elgin LeBaron Smith, will be a resource company that offers housing and job training assistance to low-income persons. Humble Servant. Valerie currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia with her youngest son, Joshua - who is also the encouragement behind all of her endeavors. She is a member of Cascade United Methodist Church where she sings with the Cascade New Advent Choir, ministers with the United Methodist Women’s Missionary Group, Christian Door Keepers Ushers Ministry, and Cascade Youth Entertainment Group. She also serves as a Public Relations Manager for the City of Atlanta. For more information or booking please visit: www.inspiredbyvalerie.com or send an email to: info@inspiredbyvalerie.com, www.facebook.com/ Inspiredbyvalerie or www.twitter.com/IBVMusic