Monica McIntyre
This talented singer, songwriter and cellist was a friend of mine at Drexel where we shared core design classes before she dove into fashion design and left me, a graphic design major, to my own caffeine-induced all-nighters involving Coloraid, Exactos, Rubber Cement and countless packs of cigarettes. (I don't know what was more caustic, the smoking or the rubber cement... fortunately, I gave up both.)
Today she's my hero for pursuing her first true love and unquestionable talent. Her music continuously receives accolades from just about every publication here in Philadelphia. Next time you're looking for heartfelt blues, soul or jazz that dares to break away from the norm, check her schedule and hit a show.