Casandra Elizabeth Ventura (born August 26, 1986), known professionally as Cassie, is an American singer, dancer, actress, and model. Raised in New London, Connecticut, Cassie launched her career in the mid-2000s after meeting producer Ryan Leslie, who signed her to NextSelection Lifestyle Group and collaborated on her debut single, "Me & U," in 2006[1][2]. The song became a breakout hit, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and propelling her into the spotlight[1][2]. Her self-titled debut album, released the same year, peaked at number four on the Billboard 200, solidifying her early success in the R&B and pop music scene[1][2]. Cassie’s music career continued with follow-up singles such as "Long Way 2 Go," "Official Girl" (featuring Lil Wayne), "Must Be Love" (featuring Diddy), and "Let’s Get Crazy" (featuring Akon)[1][2]. In 2013, she released her debut mixtape, RockaByeBaby, under Interscope Records, with singles like "Numb" (featuring Rick Ross) and "Paradise" (featuring Wiz Khalifa)[1][2]. Beyond music, Cassie has maintained a steady presence in modeling, signing with agencies such as Wilhelmina and One Management, and working with major brands like Calvin Klein, Adidas, and Abercrombie & Fitch[1]. She has also appeared in magazines including GQ and Seventeen, and was the face of ASOS’s 2013 spring collection[1]. As an actress, Cassie appeared in the film Step Up 2: The Streets (2008) and The Perfect Match (2016)[1]. She has also balanced her professional pursuits with academic achievement, holding a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Psychology from the University of the Incarnate Word[4]. In recent years, Cassie has remained relevant through both her creative work and personal advocacy. In November 2023, she settled a civil lawsuit against Sean Combs (Diddy), making headlines and drawing public attention to issues of abuse in the entertainment industry[5]. Though she has maintained a relatively low public profile in recent years, her early musical influence and continued work in modeling and acting keep her a recognizable figure in popular culture. Cassie’s career reflects a blend of artistic versatility and resilience, with her early 2000s hits remaining influential in the R&B and pop genres[1][2].