Cheri Moon – We Are All the Same

By starrymag | May 19, 2022

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

 

A) I would say my sound is a cross between soul & pop!  I love being versatile in the way my voice sounds in certain songs.  I’ve grown so much over the years learning how to use the different parts of my voice. So, I can belt and give you that gutsy soulful flavor, or I can turn around and give you a rhythmic, melodic, pop girl vibe.

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

 

A) I love a lot of the legendary artists like Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, Annie Lennox, Grace Jones, Prince and Michael Jackson, but I also love modern-day artists like Adele, Dua Lipa, Lana Del Rey, Florence & The Machine, etc.

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “We Are All the Same.”

 

A) “We’re All the Same” breaks down the differences that we as people may have come from a different culture or background and is a celebration of these differences. We are witnessing so many injustices and lots of discrimination in the world right now. STILL…If children can learn and understand at a young age that our differences are what makes us unique and we’re all human beings, this would help future generations.  We could have less racism and discrimination and more empathy and humanity.

 

Q) What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?

 

A) Of course, the message is first and foremost one of the most important yet basic ideas you want to instill in children, the melody is catchy and easy to remember.  It still feels fun to listen to though it’s a heavy message for kids.

 

Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?

 

A) I love the video we put together for “We’re All the Same” because I got to work with film Director William Wayne on this music video and I also visited Kenya and spent time in an amazing village with the Masai people.  That in itself was such a special opportunity.   My family and I spent time partaking in their gathering and chanting traditions and learning more about their culture. I was privileged to be able to sing to them and share this beautiful moment in the video.  Having their tribe and my small tribe together was something I’ll never forget.  The video also features kids that I’ve spent so much time with over the years singing and& teaching. I call them “Snooknuk kids!”  I love being part of their childhood and fostering their creativity.

 

Q) The album was so popular that you got nominated for a Grammy! What did this incredible honor mean to you?

 

A) The album I’m a part of that’s nominated for a Grammy, All One Tribe, is an amazing album filled with so many wonderful messages for children and families.  We couldn’t have imagined that this album would be so well received and nominated for a Grammy!  Of course, one dreams of moments like this but to actually have it happen is a Huge Honor!

 

Q) What is your songwriting process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

 

A) There are a few different ways it can go when coming up with new songs.  I either get inspired about a topic or subject.  Then, I create melodies that complement it or if the melodies come first, I’ll just write what comes to mind when initially creating the melodies.  Words can all change at any time during this process.  If the melody is very strong, then you can play around with what you’re saying.  I don’t have one set formula, I tend to go with whatever comes first whether it’s the lyrics, melody, the hook or the verse just the flush out the initial idea and then I challenge myself by coming up with a couple of different ideas for each song and see what’s the strongest.

 

Q) How much of hand do you have in the production of your music?

 

A) I usually collaborate on the music production as well. If I write the lyrics and melody first most of the time, I have ideas of what I’d like to hear in the track or any breakdowns, etc.

 

Q) We heard you’ve been working with Julie Pacino for the 1st-Ever NFT-backed film. What can you tease is the premise for the movie?  

 

A) Yes, I’m lucky to be working with Julie Pacino and her brilliant team.  The NFT- funded movie I Live Here Now is about a young Hollywood actress who is sickened by the demands Hollywood has on women’s bodies but when she becomes pregnant, she runs away to the Infamous Madonna Inn and discovers an even darker entity.

 

Q) What are some of the other recent projects that you have been busy working on?

 

A) I’ve been so busy lately working on music.  Writing more pop songs, finishing my dance album and starting on another children’s album as well!  I’m really inspired to write and record right now.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

 

A) I have a bitter/sweet relationship with social media. I do think it’s a part of our culture now and definitely how projects are being promoted these days.  Companies are pumping more marketing dollars into social media platforms than they are in TV campaigns so you kind of have to evolve with the times.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

 

A) I want to thank anyone who is a supporter of my work whether it’s with my music or with acting projects I do.  I’m grateful to continue to do what I love and hope that at least some of my work can touch and inspire. I myself support artists that I’m into as well.  But I would say the best support to offer artists is buying or steaming their music!  It makes such a difference in the longevity of what we create and is one the most effective ways to show your love and support!