Kendra Ross isn't related to Diana Ross, but in some music circles she's already being hailed as the next Ms. Ross.

Her debut CD, "New Voice" (Lola's Child Music), released last week, not only plays to the strength of her soulful-jazz inflected style but allows her the freedom to be herself artistically.

Ross, 29, grew up in Green Tree and started singing in church. After graduating from Brashear High School, she set off for New York University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in music business, and later earned a master's degree at Brooklyn College.

In the ensuing years, she has performed on recordings with artists such as Kanye West and Talib Kweli.

She also has thorough understanding of the music biz, having worked for Colombia Records and, for the past five years, Universal Music Group, while nurturing her performance and recording careers.

Q: When did you become interested in music, and who were some of your earlier influences?

A: I started out in the church, singing in the church choir and listening to gospel music with my family. As I got older, I started listening to R&B, people like Anita Baker and Phyllis Hyman.

Q: What was it about Phyllis Hyman's voice that you liked?

A: She had an alto sound. I knew early on that my voice was different. Most little girls sound like little girls, but I had a mature voice at a young age. I love Patti LaBelle, but because Phyllis and Anita Baker had the kind of voice that felt I could mature into if I worked at it, I focused on them.

Q: Were your parents supportive of decision to pursue music?

A: Definitely. My mother is very active in the church and in music ministry, and my father grew up in bands and he used to hang out with writers from Motown. So there was always music in my family.

Q: What was it like attending college in New York City?

A: It was great. I met some really wonderful people. I got to intern at a lot of major record labels, but after I graduated in 1997, I wondered if that's what I wanted to do. I was wrestling with whether to become a record executive or a performer.

Q: What have you learned working for a major record label that has helped you as an artist?

A: There's nothing wrong with good music. You shouldn't have to make bad music in order to get it to sell. I wanted to make the best record I could, given my limited resources. After that, I wanted to make it marketable. I was very adamant about the packaging and the guest artists.

Q: Among the guest artists featured is the rapper Talib Kweli. Can you talk a little about your relationship with Talib?

A: We've been friends since our freshman year at NYU. He attended NYU for a while. We used to perform together at functions and he's just a good friend.

Q: Can you talk about the songs on the recording?

A: This album is comprised of songs that I have written over the past 10 years. I think the album demonstrates my growth as an artist and woman. I've learned a lot, both musically and intellectually. At the same time, I am just beginning.