By: Francesca Fortino
Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Never Been Better.”
A) I wrote this song based on experiences I encountered myself and others I seen around me. It just brings light to the fact that sometimes leaving situations can be the better decisions, hint “never been better.”
Q) You are a part of social media. What kind of fan response have you been receiving to the track?
A) Since this track is not released yet, I will speak on the EP responses. A lot of my supporters are happy I am back making music and are excited to hear the older version of me. I also had a lot of people who didn’t know I made music.
Q) What are some themes you explore on your current EP What I’m On?
A) Some of themes I explores were love, friend and relationships and also self-empowerment.
Q) What song from on the EP are you most happy to finally be releasing to the public and why?
A) “Feel Like” is definitely my favorite song on the EP. The song is exciting and up tempo. It’s a dancing song and one I love to perform.
Q) What is the process you have for song writing? Do you need music before you can come up with lyrics?
A) My process is simple. I like to write when I’m alone and its quiet or in the studio, the studio’s environment helps. I don’t need music to write but having a beat or melody helps the writing session moves faster and the words come easier.
Q) What did you learn about yourself from the process of creating this new EP?
A) During the process I learned that music is a form of therapy for me and the vibes of/ in the studio are relaxing.
Q) Are you already working on new music, or your fans will have to wait?
A) I am currently working on new music. I made my supporters wait enough. I don’t plan on taking any more breaks.
Q) Tell me more about your philanthropy project I Can Literacy Foundation and the mission and the reason that pushed you to start it.
A) The I Can Literacy Foundation is a non-profit organization created to bring light to the fundamental of reading and writing, especially in my hometown Detroit, where the illiteracy rate is around fifty percent. I eventually want it to spread further than my hometown because reading is definitely an important element in life. One of the things the foundation does is annual backpack give aways, stuffing the bookbags with supplies, reading and more.
Q) We love your Annual Backpack Drive! Why are books so important in helping kids of all ages growing up?
A) Well, reading is one thing that will carry us for the rest of our lives – from reading books in school to reading contracts, rights, etc. Every child should understand the fundamentals of literacy.
Q) How can your fans get more involved with your I Can Literacy Foundation and/or the Backpack Drive?
A) For now, the best way to stay connected is just looking out for any upcoming events via social media. The more people we have, the more audience we can reach.
Q) You have done on screen work and now voice Gus on “The Owl House.” Do you prefer working in front of the camera or behind it?
A) I love, love, love voiceovers. They are one of the most creative things in the industry, but I’d definitely prefer to be on camera.
Q) We’ve loved you on “Raven’s Home.” What has your experience been like working with the amazing Raven Symone and what does it mean to you that the show continues to be such a fan favorite?
A) Working with the amazing Raven Symone has absolutely been amazing. She literally taught me almost everything I know when it comes to entertainment. I am so grateful to have such an amazing castmate, mentor and role model by my side.
Q) Are there any new projects that you have been busy working on that you can tell us about?
A) There are always new projects! New shows, music, merch. Definitely stay tuned and follow my social medias so you won’t miss anything.
Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of you and your work?
A) I love you all with all my heart. You guys make this fun, and I am thankful for you all.