German pop vocalist Joana Zimmer was born in Freiburg before relocating with her family to the U.S. Zimmer lived stateside long enough to speak fluent, accent-free English before returning to Germany to begin her musical studies. Starting with the renowned Berliner Choir at a young age provided a strong foundation for the budding artist. By the age of 15, Zimmer had branched out into the world of jazz and pop vocals. She performed regularly at popular jazz clubs and hotels while modeling on the side, saving her earnings toward the recording of her first demo. Her strong voice and professional experience opened doors at Universal Music, which released Zimmer's debut, My Innermost, in 2005. Contributors like Burt Bacharach, Andreas Carlsson (Celine Dion, Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, etc.), and Gary Barlow got behind the project, writing repertoire and producing the record, which made it to Billboard's European Top 100 Albums chart. The single "I Believe" went directly to the national Top Ten. Her sophomore release was met with similar enthusiasm. The Voice in Me, featuring Zimmer's second hit single, "Bringing Down the Moon," made it to Billboard's European Top 100 Albums chart in 2007. Though she has yet to make international waves, Zimmer continues to perform to large audiences throughout Germany. ~ Evan C. Gutierrez