Candace Marie Haynes, also known as “C-Marie”, grew up in a home filled with music, imagination, and love. On any given day, she would spend hours in the family room dancing to music, singing songs and directing skits, where she would cast her three siblings as the main characters. Throughout grade school, Candace and her siblings, Garrett, Carmin, and Justin, formed a quartet and played their string instruments at various events throughout Atlanta, Georgia.

Candace also is inspired and influenced by her aunt, Chilli from the girl group TLC. Candace grew up learning the ins and outs of the music industry and would often say that she would make timeless, feel-good music like her aunt. Chilli, affectionately referred to as Tzonda, continues to share wisdom and opportunities that help guide Candace through her entertainment career.

Her fascination and desire to becoming an all-around creative grew as she watched her mom, Linda Bratton, write, direct and choreograph church plays. During this time, Candace learned about production coordination, from both the creative and business sides. At the young age of 7, Candace assisted her mom with choreographing a piece for the angels in the Christmas play.

Candace has been a featured speaker at the highly-acclaimed Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta.