Christian Shantell Knox, better known by her stage name Hoopz, was born in Tuscaloosa, AL. At an early age, around 6 or 7, with her love of music already very apparent, she began performing for her family whenever and wherever. By the time she was 10 years old, she had begun to write her own songs. With music and singing already quite natural to her, Hoopz diversified her skill set at the age of 13 and included rapping into the mix. In a self-built studio created by her cousin, she first got her start with free-styling and recording. These early sessions led to collaborations with various local independent musicians, which fostered key relationships with producers, engineers and session musicians. After purchasing recording software of her own along with the necessary equipment that would facilitate home recordings, she spent hours upon hours perfecting her craft and developing the act that has gotten her mass appeal in her home town of Tuscaloosa. It was during the time she was in the nineth grade that Big Boy Entertainment provided opportunities for her to do live performances, which led to the creation of “Kodak,” her first mix-tape, a radio station interview and ensuing music videos. Now, at just 22, Hoopz has the experience, attitude, talent and team necessary for her debut onto the music’s main stage.

My musical influences are Lauryn Hill, TLC, The Script, J. Cole, Missy Elliott, Aaliyah, Carrie Underwood, Frank Ocean, Eve, Tupac, Brandy, Ron Pope, Keith Urban and Ryan Leslie.