By: Lisa Steinberg
Q) How did growing up in Baltimore influence you to become the artist you are today?
A) Baltimore influenced my artistry in a huge way, to be honest. I always say I am Baltimore and Baltimore is me – from the culture itself to the fashion to the music to everything. From R&B powerhouses like Mario and Sisqo to dance artist like TT the Artist – everything about my hometown is what made me not only the creative I am but the person I am today.
Q) We last chatted in 2023 about your song “feels.” How have you grown as an artist since that time?
A) Since “feels” dropped I learned honestly to trust myself a lot more. and to be fearless with my art. To remember who I am and who’s I am (not to get all spiritual lol). and to have fun with this thing called “life”
Q) Where did the concept for “HUGS (Love on RX’s)” come from?
A) It came from my life. I was in this crazzzzzy ass relationship or situationship, I guess [laughs], where everything was right when “we” were or really “they” were under the influence but when they were sober the relationship totally sucked ass. [laughs] I can laugh about it now but at the time I was in it. I had completely lost myself.
Q) The song came out in June, and I love the Atlanta-bass vibe. What kind of response did you receive to it from fans?
A) It did, and aw, geez, I really appreciate that. The response has been pretty good from fans, to be honest. They absolutely dig it, which I was kinda nervous about. I figured the subject matter would be too dark and people wouldn’t take it well or dig it, but I was totally shocked by the overwhelming positive responses and reactions to it. I guess a lot of people can relate to it, which I’m completely thankful about.
Q) With your project “Songs About We…” out now, what are some themes that you explore on this?
A) So this project really explores themes of love, loss and heartbreak. It’s really just my private journal/thoughts expressed openly with music behind it lol
It was soooooo therapeutic for me to just release, write, sing, create and let it all out. To be honest, it was very freeing. I put everything into this project, and I hope and pray that it connects with people.
Q) Is there a particular track(s) off this project that holds a special place in your heart and why?
A) My fav track from this project would have to be “sweet surrender.” I mean, truthfully speaking, at its core it’s just a simple love song. But I think, for me, tapping into and remembering this person and the good times we actual did have was magical. I genuinely have sooooo much love for this particular person and I don’t think I’ll ever stop loving them. They really were my first real true love. Not to get all mushy [laughs], but every time I hear the song it makes me cry because I instantly start to think about that person. And I can say though the situation has ended and I’m truly happy it did because it needed to. I wouldn’t trade that experience with that person for anything and I’m happy to have had that time with them.
Q) Have you been back in the studio already working on some new music?
A) I have, I have I have. [laughs] I’m soooo excited for what’s to come. I’m already working on, and just about finished, with my next project.
I’m always writing and recording. The studio is my safe space.
Q) When we last spoke your dream collab was Kaytranada. Who are some artists you have in mind now that you would like to team up with for some new music?
A) Kooooooh totally still Kaytranada! I mean, to me his music is everything. I think sonically we’re on the same vibe and I looooove me some Lacy (Steve). I totally think he’s a musical genius, so I’d say him for sure, too.
Q) What would you like to say to fans and supporters of the incredible music you make?
A) Thank you from the bottom of my heart for alllllllll the love and support you continue to show me. I am truly grateful, and to me you are not just supporters or fans (because I hate the word fan [laughs]), but you guys are my chosen family and we’re in this together. You are my “vibe tribe” and I love you not to death but to life. [laughs]