Syleena Johnson (born September 2, 1976) is an American R&B and soul singer-songwriter and actress. Johnson took to music early, growing up not only with a musical father but also listening to influential artists such as Aretha Franklin, Al Green, Tina Turner, The Dells, Mavis Staples, Whitney Houston, Anita Baker, Prince, and Michael Jackson. She would later apply her taste for soul music as a member of her high school gospel choir. Johnson attended Thornridge High School in Dolton, Illinois. Her music career was inspired by her music teachers, who are still working there as of June 2007.