Pop-oriented R&B singer and songwriter Amerie, born Amerie Mi Marie Rogers in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, to a Korean mother and an African-American father, had a unique upbringing on military bases across different countries. She cultivated a love for classical arts from her mother and music from her father, alongside early dance training and talent contests participation. Following her graduation, her family settled in Virginia as she pursued a degree in English and Fine Arts from Georgetown University. Amerie crossed paths with producer Rich Harrison in Washington, D.C., known for his work with artists like Mary J. Blige, leading to the development of demos and eventually a record deal with Rise Entertainment and Columbia.
In 2002, Amerie’s debut single ‘Why Don’t We Fall in Love’ was released by Rise/Columbia, quickly making its mark on the R&B/hip-hop and Billboard Hot 100 charts. Her second album, Touch, unleashed the hit single ‘1 Thing,’ propelling her to number one on the charts. Subsequent albums showcased Amerie’s growth as an artist, especially with her songwriting contributions. Despite facing challenges in the U.S. market, Amerie continued her musical journey, signing with Def Jam and releasing albums like In Love & War. Transitioning to the name Ameriie, she dropped singles like ‘What I Want’ and ‘Mustang,’ and a EP titled Drive through her Feenix Rising label, illustrating her ongoing creative evolution.