Nona Gaye

Biography

Nona Marvisa Gaye (born September 4, 1974, in Washington, D.C., USA) is an American singer, songwriter, former fashion model, and actress. She is the daughter of legendary soul singer Marvin Gaye and Janis Hunter, and the granddaughter of jazz musician Slim Gaillard. She began her career in music during her teenage years and released her debut album, Love for the Future, in 1992. The album featured the single "I'm Overjoyed", which became a top 20 R&B hit.

She made her film debut with a small appearance in Harlem Nights (1989) and later gained recognition for portraying Belinda Ali in the biographical sports drama Ali (2001), starring Will Smith. Her performance earned her the Black Reel Award for Best Supporting Actress in 2002.

She became internationally known for playing Zee in the science-fiction films The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions (both 2003), taking over the role following Aaliyah's death. She also provided the voice and motion-capture performance for Hero Girl in the animated film The Polar Express (2004).

Her other acting credits include Crash (2004), xXx: State of the Union (2005), The Gospel (2005), and Blood and Bone (2009). Alongside acting, she continued exploring music and released her second album, Language of Love, in 2008.

Awards and Recognition

Black Reel Award for Best Supporting Actress for Ali (2002).

NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress for The Matrix Revolutions (2004).

Black Reel Award nomination for Best Actress for The Gospel (2006).