A native of Evansville, Indiana, Sonya spent most of her childhood years in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Lansing, Michigan. After graduating from high school she attended Naomi Simms Modeling and Finishing School. She received the "Model of the Year" award for "Most Outstanding Model" and in the same year received an award for best clothes designer. Life on the road traveling to different states performing was very exciting for Sonya. She relocated to Los Angeles, California, and convinced the famous legendary Redd Foxx she had talent. The company "Redd Foxx Productions" selected her to join his houseband "Border Line." Three years later, Sonya, relocated to Minneapolis, Minnesota. She performed with several local jazz fusion groups and was featured in the Skyway Newspaper as "Miss. Skyway." She had the pleasure of singing and playing her conga drums at the "Minnesota Black Music Awards," and performed with famous recording artists. Sonya, organized and performed in "We Are The Privileged" the first All-Female Benefit Concert for the Homeless, which will long be remembered for the 17 All-Female All Star Jam held at the famous Glam Slam Night Club. She managed to bring together 17 female musicians and vocalists (including herself performing on the conga drums) onto one stage. The event was a money making success. Her second benefit concert "Share The Love," was held at the Historic State Theater. Sonya, managed to bring together 32 professional female musicians and vocalists along with a fashion show and dancers to round out the full female production. The proceeds went to a local community center. Her vocal and percussion album credits include: "The Pressure" - Sounds of Blackness, "Walking in the Sun" & "Closer" - Lisa Keith, "Don't You Know By Now" & "Hey There Pretty Lady" - Lo Key. Evangelist Kates, is an Independent Christian Clergy. She can organize an event, direct and produce, she is a musician, camera and video editor, songwriter, performs on conga drums, djembe drums, and other miscellaneous percussion instruments.
Her faith based goals:
- To see Gospel Noize Inc. Evangelism Outreach excel nationwide.
- To own and operate a television and recording production studio.
- To create newly community initiative programs for high risk underperforming teens.
"True happiness is the joy of helping others"
Sonya Kates
