Asia Nalani Vernimo-Kovacs (née Vernimo; born February 11, 1990), known professionally as Asia Cruise, is an American R&B singer. In 2008, she became the first artist of Asian descent to be signed to Hitz Committee/Jive Records and was discovered by the Vice President of A&R at Jive Records, Mickey "MeMpHiTz" Wright.
Early life and education Originally from Jacksonville, Florida, Asia Cruise is of Filipino, Caucasian, and Native American descent. She is the daughter of Cecilia "Cissy" Cenizal Vernimo (died 2023)https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jacksonville-fl/cecilia-vernimo-11124825 and Arlen Vernimo. She has two younger siblings, Max (born in 1991) and Alyssa (born in 1998). She had earned a degree in English at University of Florida.
Career Signed to Jive Records in 2007, Cruise released her debut single "Selfish" in 2008 by revealing her face only after the music video premiered on BET's 106 & Park. "Selfish" became a modest hit in the United States; peaking at number 33 on the Rhythmic Songs airplay, it spent nine weeks on the chart. Cruise also appeared in the music videos for Huey’s single “Pop, Lock & Drop It”, apl.de.ap's charity single "We Be Workin", Huey’s single "Tell Me This (G-5) Remix" featuring MempHitz and T-Pain, and Huey’s single featuring Lloyd, "When I Hustle ".
Personal life She now lives with her husband, 2 sons, and daughter, in Jacksonville, Florida.
Discography Albums YearTitle2008Who Is Asia Cruise? Released: Shelved Label: Mosley/Zone4/Interscope/Hitz Committee
Singles YearTitlePeak chart positionsAlbumU.S. Rhythmic2008"Selfish"33Who Is Asia Cruise?"Boyfriend"-
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