Aretha Franklin. Tina Turner. Etta James. Linda Rodney! Linda, who performs under the name of Chocolate Thunder, is determined to reach the success levels of these blues, rock and R&B divas, and with her amazing voice and dynamic stage presence, her destiny is written in the stars.
Born and living in Greenville, South Carolina, Linda traveled the paths in her music career through the "College of Hard Knocks". "That is why I sing the blues," she affirms. At a very young age, Linda was immersed in the music her parents, grandparents, other relatives, and friends listened to, ranging from Patti LaBelle and Shirley Cesar to Muddy Waters and the Grand Dame of rockin' soul Aretha Franklin. The church mentored the young Linda while she polished her vocal prowess singing with the children's choir, and wowed church parishioners with her powerful and mature vocal capabilities.
Linda's career has always involved performing on stage. She acted for several years while on the roster of JTA Talent in nearby Charlotte, NC, and also modeled for eight years with the Millie Lewis Agency in Greenville, SC. But Linda's first love was always music, particularly the blues. "You see, I not only can sing the blues, but I also know why we sing it," is the credo that Linda emulates through her moving performances.
After expanding her vocal skills training with opera singer Sarah Reece, she hit the club, festival and event markets in South Carolina, crossed the continent to perform in California, and traveled overseas to perform in Paris, France. Linda's music career is filled with treasures including performing with numerous bands such as the Main Street Blues Band, Palmetto Blues Boys, and the Blues Beat Band. Eventually, Linda stepped out on her own and formed her own band, performing under the moniker Chocolate Thunder. Over the years, she has shared the stage and opened for legendary artists including Little Pink Anderson, Elmore James, Jr., Sandra Hall, and B.B. King. People began to notice Linda, not just for her sonic but soulful voice, but for her incredible stage presence. "Every show I give 100% no matter what," she says. "I want to present myself as being professional, fun, and self-assured."
In 2007, Linda entered the studio to record her own tunes as a result of numerous fan requests. Although it can be difficult to write truly original blues songs, Linda flawlessly succeeds as evidenced on her debut CD release "Barkin' Up the Wrong Tree." The demand for Linda's music continues to grow and she is currently readying her sophomore CD for the masses with an anticipated release date planned for June 25, 2009. Linda will be touring at festivals and venues to support her new musical calling card. "I love to give it all I've got. In the past years of pursuing my career in singing the blues, it has been a beautiful and unforgettable ride."
Now appearing on GreenvilleHD.com! Check out Linda Rodney aka Chocolate Thunder on GreenvilleHD.com here - GreenvilleHD.com
Hi CT and we are very pleased to have you as one of our friends. I have listened to and enjoyed your music many times. Hope to see you on the music trail somewhere. I(Sid) will gladly say I am one of your fans. Love Blues and Love your music
I think the weather conditions are right for there to be a Chocolate Thunder storm! For anybody out there that hasn't heard Chocolate Thunder yet, she is one of the best female Soul singers you're gonna here. What a pleasure it was for me to have been a back-up musician on the Montreal Jazz festival, July 4. When those thousands of people were screaming after both shows we did, they were screaming for you. For me, it was like playing behind Tina Turner, Gladys Knight, or Aretha Franklin, Chocolate Thunder is in their league. Best of luck to you as more fans come to love your music. I'm proud to be a small part of that.
Thanks too for being who you are, You're a great person to work with,
Hello Linda.Thank you so much for adding me on your myspace friends.I appreciate a lot.I think you are a wonderful singer.You captivated my spirit for a long time.Someday hope to see you again in Montreal .Danie
Love your sound...reminds me of my young days jamming with Tyrone Davis & Buddy Scott. If your in the Chicago area and need a band let me know.....jimmy
Hey Linda Rodney ’aka’, thanks for considering us worthy of your friendship. We'll try not to let you down. Please do visit our profile and comment about how we're doing.
One Love ! Aviva and the Flying Penguins...share some love up in the Smokey Mountains of Tenn! 
