Biography
The Tracie Spencer story
A small-town Iowa girl with a once-in-a-generation voice — Tracie's journey from a Star Search stage to the Billboard charts is the stuff of R&B legend.
Early life & Star Search
Born July 12, 1976 in Waterloo, Iowa, Tracie grew up singing in church and around the house. In 1987, an 11-year-old Tracie stepped onto the Star Search stage and walked away the junior vocalist champion — a moment that would change the rest of her life.
A historic Capitol signing
Within months she signed with Capitol Records — at the time the youngest female artist ever on the label. Her self-titled debut landed in 1988, followed by the breakthrough sophomore album Make the Difference, which delivered “This House” and the now-iconic “Tender Kisses.”
An enduring sound
Tracie's voice — warm, intimate and effortlessly soulful — has influenced two generations of R&B vocalists. She continues to record, perform and share her gift with audiences around the world.
Career Highlights
A life in music
- 1976
Born in Waterloo, Iowa
Tracie Monique Spencer is born on July 12, 1976.
- 1987
Star Search Champion
At 11 years old, wins the junior vocalist competition on Star Search, capturing national attention.
- 1988
Signs to Capitol Records
Becomes the youngest female artist ever signed to Capitol Records and releases her self-titled debut album.
- 1988
“Symptoms of True Love”
First single charts on Billboard, introducing the world to her remarkable voice.
- 1990
“This House”
Crosses over from R&B to pop, becoming a Top 10 Billboard Hot 100 hit.
- 1991
“Tender Kisses”
The slow-jam classic from Make the Difference peaks at #2 on the Billboard R&B chart.
- 1999
Tracie
Returns with the album Tracie and the hit single “It's All About You (Not About Me).”
- Now
The Next Chapter
New music, live performances, and a creative reset — Tracie is writing her next era on her own terms.