For many, the unique sound of Macy Gray's husky vocals defined mainstream R&B and neo soul in the early 2000s. Originally hailing from Ohio, the songstress fell into the industry when she agreed to help a fellow muso record a demo tape. When her friend failed to show up, she nonchalantly recorded the track's main vocals, yet her distinctive growl caught the ear of industry movers and shakers, paving the way for a multi-platinum, Grammy-winning career.