By: Jamie Steinberg
Q) How would you describe your sound?
A) Songs that explore vulnerability, self-realization and empowerment
Q) Who are some of your musical influences?
A) My musical influences are mostly artists who have encouraged me to be my authentic self by being that themselves – Nina Simone, Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, Pink, Miriam Makeba and so many more. These artists have all been super unapologetically themselves, so inspiring.
Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “My Bones.”
A) “My Bones” is about taking back the power that I once gave away, but not just taking that power back – now walking in that power. I feel like confidence comes from doing things we are afraid of. This song is a gentle reminder to feel the fear but do it anyway. Last year I made so many changes that felt scary at the time. “My Bones” was essentially me taking that first step and remembering that my uniqueness is my superpower.
Q) The song is super inspiring! What kind of response have you been receiving from fans?
A) Thank you so much. It has been an overwhelming response and I have had such lovely and encouraging responses from fans. It’s amazing to hear them say they feel empowered.
Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?
A) My heritage is Ugandan and it was important for me to reconnect with the roots of who I am. Going back to Uganda, where both my mum and dad grew up, allowed me to explore parts of my history I hadn’t fully connected with before. My dad passed away when I was younger, so it was really special to visit the towns and villages where he and my mum spent their early years – and to include that in the video.
Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?
A) It varies but it mostly starts with a melody first before lyrics.
Q) How much of a hand do you have in the production of your music?
A) I think it is great to be able to collaborate and combine skills. There are some really great producers.
Q) Your EP I Am Enough is so powerful! What are some of your personal favorite tracks on it and why do they hold such meaning for you?
A) Thank you! That is a good question. I think it depends on the day. [laughs] But at the moment it is “Fail As Me.” This song was born from a statement that I remembered making a few years ago in a music situation where I felt that any means to success mattered way more to them than authenticity and truth. And my response was, “I’d rather fail as myself than succeed as someone else.” It’s been very important for me to stay true to who I am. Sometimes that can feel like a lonely journey, but it is all the more peaceful within.
Q) Which of the songs on the EP have you started performing live and have already become a fan favorite?
A) I have only performed “I Am Enoug”’ so far and it was so much fun. I’m really looking forward to performing the rest live and seeing how fans react.
Q) You recently performed at Metldown Fest. Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?
A) I love London, of course, as it is my hometown. Europe I love too as I find that audiences really appreciate the art and I’ve always felt loved and appreciated in those moments.
Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?
A) Probably Jon Batiste or Leon Bridges
Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?
A) I am extremely grateful for the love and support and beautiful messages – it truly feels like we are building a beautiful community.