Artist Bio for Idara “ILL Skillz” Umana Ill Skillz is a creative force and is an accomplished Poet, Spoken Word Artist, Writer, International Music Recording Artist and Actor, for many years. Her fiery style varies from love to politics and everything in between. She has graced many stages, across the country, including House of Blues-New Orleans, The Pageant-St. Louis, The Green Mill-Chicago, and a 15 city tour sponsored by Grand Marnier Liqueur, as well as, Colleges and Universities, performing one of her many special talents. Some of her musical projects include “Tha Locs” which displays a wide range of genres with deep rhythms and lyrical wisdom. “Ride Thru Your City” on Biggiddy B album “Cash” was released under The Orchard- Music Distribution, which sold in several countries and continents around the world. Currently on Spotify streaming platform. Early on in life, she found a love for reading and words before she could start kindergarten. Being an introvert, she read all of the time and became fascinated with the ability to paint pictures with words and how communicate effectively without speaking. Eventually she found her voice and projected it to the world through poetry, music and acting, gifts she is compelled to share. Growing up in the Midwest, her uniqueness comes from her mixed background and upbringing in a Nigerian-Southern American household, which gave her a distinct perspective when producing songs, poetry or any other creative works. She has been featured in articles in the St. Louis Post Dispatch and recognized in other local media outlets. Her powerful and inspiring message of unity and the love of being yourself, has opened minds and hearts of many over the years. Ill Skillz has opened up for legendary artist like Gil Scott-Heron, Biz Markie, Sonia Sanchez and neo-soul singer Bilal, and as far as her acting career, she has been a part of many projects, such as commercials and films. Her projects include “Jihad”, “SuperBrotha” and the Oscar nominated and Golden Globe Award winning film “Up In The Air” starring George Clooney. Her current goals are to utilize her vast array of creative talents to entertain, provoke thoughts and to move her audience to their core. She has an impressive mental capacity and has committed most of her work to memory, which helps her stay ready for her next performance. Ill Skillz currently resides in St. Louis, Missouri with her loved ones and friends. She has been self-employed for decades and has a great work ethic and loves what she does. Her classic but youthful style, translates through her craft and leaves a mark with her audience through time. She always gets asked when her next album, poem or movie is coming out between projects, which motivates her to keep going because there are people that love to see her perform. Booking and Contact Information: WordJewelry.illskillz@gmail.com