CARS - NAOMI STRIEMER
Remember the first time you heard Whitney, Mariah or Celine and recognized a star was born? Naomi Striemer will — must — propel beyond her foray at AC and become the commanding diva of the decade. This Canadian beauty possesses so many novel traits — exalting vocals, distinctive phrasing, masterful songwriting — that 10 notes into heartbreaking first single “Cars,” stares will aim toward speakers. Initially signed to an ultimately botched deal with Epic, she is now the driving mission of entrepreneur Steven Nowack, who is persuading radio program directors on a grass-roots level that Striemer is inevitable. Contributors Carlos Santana (guitar) and Narada Michael Walden are convinced. The year’s most promising melodic debut. Billboard
