CMagic5 – Just Wanna

By starrymag | October 7, 2020

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

 

A) My music is contemporary pop with a refreshing blend of old school vibes and futuristic sounds. My soulful vocals have the power to evoke a profound response.

While the genre of my music is pop, the uniqueness of my sound is created by fusing other sub-genres into my songs such as pop/afrobeat/trap like “Just Wanna” or pop/orchestral/rock like “Outta My Head.” When covering songs, I can deliver almost every genre of music from Classical to Pop and in diverse languages.  When it comes to my original music, I like to give every song a different vibe with its own identity through my voice and song-writing style. By many, my voice has been defined as a cross-over between Toni Braxton and Dua Lipa.

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

 

A) One of my greatest musical influences has always been Nina Simone. Her voice, style of music and work ethic have all inspired me to be the greatest musician I can be. One of her most successful songs, “Feeling Good,” was the first song I began to perform in front of large live audiences. The more I sang it, the more I began to discover my true abilities as a vocalist. The profound response from the audience motivated me to think of my art as a career and hone my craft even further.

My other musical influences Whitney Houston, Dua Lipa, Christina Aguilera, Miley Cyrus and Toni Braxton.

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Just Wanna.”

 

A) “Just Wanna” is an unfiltered and universally relatable story of a girl who lets the negativity in her life fuel the transformation into a better version of herself. This self-empowering Summer anthem is based on themes from the classic story Alice in Wonderland with a modern-day twist. “It’s no use going back to yesterday, because I was a different person then.” (Lewis Carroll). Throughout the song the girl realizes she needs to let go of her expectations of people, to be happy in life. I wanted to take the listeners on a three-minute journey to block out negative energy and let go of their worries and step into a world of feeling happy for themselves and self-empowered through music and dance.

 

Q) What do you think it is about the song that made it such a Summer 2020 anthem?

 

A) Musically, “Just Wanna” exhibits a uniqueness with a buzzing freshness of summer through its catchy, modern pop melody built on a powerful Afrobeat. I wanted to create this spicy fusion hoping to increase listeners’ heart rate and encourage them to dance all their worries away, delivering a message of healing through the power of music.

My message is simple and direct to my listeners, conveying that the sweetest revenge is to smile, succeed, and prioritize yourself. Uplifting and fresh, this track is recommended for fans of artists like Dua Lipa and Camilla Cabello.

 

Q) We have just a lyric video for now. Will there be a full video for the track coming our way soon?

 

A) With lockdown gripping the world in different stages, there has been a slight delay in the release. But the music video is certainly under wraps and it can be expected in the fall.

 

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

 

A) Somehow the most honest work comes when you aren’t trying to push for something and you allow your creativity to flow. With my raw vocals, a victorious spirit and honest storylines, I try to be as transparent as possible. I have quite a vivid imagination, which opens up the floodgates to many ideas all at once. This can be overwhelming at first, but once I organize my thoughts and emotions, everything is put into perspective. When it comes to the early stages of writing my songs, there is no specific format, or golden recipe that I use every time… that’s the beauty of it! The music could come before or after the writing or the lyrics and melody could resonate at the same time. Each song has its own creative journey and tells a different story.

 

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

 

A) I am grateful to have a background in music education during my formative years from the world-renowned “Royal Conservatory.” My strong foundation in music has expanded and strengthened my skills as a musician. When it comes to producing, I compose the structure of the music myself at home and then collaborate with my producer to complete the rest of the production through studio sessions.

 

Q) How do you shake off a long day in the studio?

 

A) I absolutely love spending time at the studio. It is basically my home away from home and my natural habitat. Some days at the studio go on longer than others, so I ensure I treat myself to my favorite beverage (matcha lattes) and eat a nutritious meal! I also love to work out, then relax with a hot shower and have a little “me time!” 😊

 

Q) Will there be a full album or EP coming in the near future?

 

A) My goal is to release my debut album by the end of this year. I am working on a couple of different styles and to have that incorporated all into my album is something I am excited about and cannot wait to share with the world!

 

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?

 

A) A couple of my favorite places would be The Mod Club in downtown Toronto, which is significant to me as it is Toronto’s premier live music venue. Next would be Niagara’s Grape & Fine Festival – Centre Stage Saturdays, which is a great way to enjoy and explore Niagara and its vibrant community. Another favorite venue is the popular Yonge-Dundas Square in downtown Toronto which hosts community celebrations, theatrical events, and concerts to a diverse and multi-cultural audience.

 

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

 

A) I always love to collaborate with new artists in the industry and I’m excited to be working on the remix for some of my songs with different producers and establishing synergies in the future. My dream collaboration would be with The Weeknd or Dua Lipa.

 

Q) What album/band are you currently listening to and why do you dig them? 

 

A) It’s highly commendable to see the immense contribution to music out there is mostly homegrown right here in Canada. The Weeknd is one of my favorite artists right now who champions individuality as he chooses to be both lyrically and sonically different. His creative approach to music is exceptionally appealing which offers a medium of escapism. I think the tracks off of his new album are incredibly captivating and timeless.

 

Q) Toronto has become quite the music scene! What advice would you give to up and coming artists from the area?

 

A) I try to encourage artists to be their most authentic self always! Yes, for sure be inspired by successful artists around, but share your own light with the world and own what makes you unique. Being a vocal mentor, I am dedicated to helping youth amplify their voice in society, as well as on the stage.

Always remember to take care of yourself as an individual first, then as an artist. What’s important is to never give up no matter how challenging things can be and stay focused. Never let anyone stop you from doing what you love. Stay hungry for your dreams and make it happen!

In short, keep the faith, work hard and stay humble.

 

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

 

A) As the live music and grassroots in-person variables are diminished right now, it has opened up a plethora of online avenues and live streams, reaching a geographically wider and diverse audience which I think is truly amazing in the midst of the pandemic! Social media especially during these times is important as many resort to the media to relax, de-stress and have fun. Hence it is very important to put up feel-good and encouraging content out there.

I try to represent my artist brand in a way that takes the uplifting and empowering messages from my music and channel that energy through a vibrant and exuberant visual style. This is reflected in my personality as well.

 

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

 

A) Music to me is rewarding because of the support and feedback I receive from my followers.

I am humbled, grateful and feel blessed by their love and appreciation for my work. I engage with my fans constantly and make it a point to not only thank them but also encourage them to pursue their dreams. Their support means the world to me and they are part of my extended family.