BALTIMORE — Baltimore City is widely known for being home to some of today’s hottest stars, including actress Jada Pinkett-Smith and comedian/actress Monique who both speak proudly of their “charm city” roots.
However, there are less known but equally talented people from the area including Baltimore’s own Stanley Earl Alston.
Born and raised in Edmondson Village, Alston traces his love of music and performing back to his childhood. “I got my start in music at Fulton Street Baptist Church and from there I joined a theater program at the age of eight. I realized early that people could hear my loud voice and enjoyed my sound.”
At 12, Alston started singing with a local band in the basement of his parent’s home, which later led to performing at local venues around Baltimore City. The group soon began performing across Maryland and along the East Coast. The hard work paid off landing the group as a opening act for the popular R&B singing soul group “The Manhattans.”
The journey continued to evolve for Alston as he later formed his own band “Opus Nuevo” opening for other musical greats such as Al Greene and Phyllis Hyman. Despite their good luck, Alston confesses the group still could not find their break through hit song to capture the attention of the mainstream music industry.
Eventually Alston embarked on a solo career and has since performed for Off-Broadway Shows in New York City, touring internationally as well as recording six albums over his impressive career. Alston is currently performing with Cuba Gooding Sr. with a buzz worthy musical group, The Main Ingredient.
When he is not on performing, Alston contributes his time working with youth. “I enjoy talking and listening to our young people. Some of the kids ask me to sign their autograph and tell me I’m a star, but I tell them they are the real stars, which is why I’m here.”
Alston recently released an album titled “Unveiled,” which yet again proves why the talented singer has remained consistent throughout his career. To learn more about tour dates and performances visit: http://www.stanleyealston.com.