Rhonda Smith

In addition to taking private classical training on upright bass, Smith attended McGill University in Montreal studying jazz performance.

After gaining some experience in the local rock scene, she moved on to work with Canadian artists Claude Dubois, Daniel Lavoie, Robert Charlebois and James Blovin.

She won a Juno award for "Best Contemporary Jazz Album", for her work with Jim Hillman and The Merlin Factor.

While attending a music convention in Germany, Smith met Sheila E. and gave her a press kit after learning Prince was putting a new band together.

Other musicians she has worked with include Chaka Khan, Beyoncé, T.I., Erykah Badu, Lee Ritenour, Jeff Beck, and Terri Lyne Carrington.