Olivia (singer)

Olivia Theresa Longott (born February 15, 1981 in Brooklyn, New York, U.S.), professionally known as Olivia, is an American R&B singer best known for contributing vocals to 50 Cent's hit single "Candy Shop" and her debut album Olivia. She was also a regular cast member in the first three seasons (2011–13) of the VH1 reality television series Love & Hip Hop.

Early life

Born in Brooklyn, New York and raised in New York City, Longott is of Indian,Cuban, Native American and Jamaican descent. She studied music at Bayside High School (New York City), in Queens and at Five Towns College in Dix Hills, New York . Olivia began her performing career in her teenage years.

Career

J Records (2000–2002)

In 2000, she became the first artist signed to Clive Davis' J Records. Her self-titled debut album Olivia was released in 2001 and featured the singles "Bizounce" which made #15 on the charts, and "Are U Capable". The album debuted at #55 on the Billboard 200.

G-Unit Records (2004–2005)

In 2004, Olivia re-emerged as the first woman signed to G-Unit Records. She contributed vocals to the group's debut album Beg for Mercy and to 50 Cent's The Massacre, including the album's number-one single "Candy Shop". Her first solo single released via G-Unit Records was "Twist It", featuring fellow G-Unit member Lloyd Banks, followed up by "So Sexy" in summer 2005. Both songs failed to debut on the charts due to little promotion. Olivia briefly attended Hofstra University in New York and planned her second album, Behind Closed Doors, which was originally slated for a 2006 release on Interscope and G-Unit Records. Around the same time, Olivia contributed vocals to Shaggy (Olivia released her single, "Best Friend", featuring 50 Cent in 2006.)