Monique Nikkole – Red Bottoms and Lingerie

By starrymag | September 30, 2021

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

 

A) It’s a collection of nostalgia… raw soul with a touch of satin. It will definitely take you on a trip through timeless music, with the destination leading to contemporary/today’s R&B.

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

 

A) These music powerhouses help to shape and mold my sound: Stephanie Mills, Whitney Houston, Me’lisa Morgan, Gladys Knight, Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Faith Evans, Brian McKnight and The Isley Brothers. I’m so blessed to have experienced them. They are a part of my story.

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Red Bottoms and Lingerie.”

 

A) The song was actually picked for me by my manager Michael Stemley. When I heard it, I was pleasantly surprised because it was so different from anything I’ve recorded before, and I love a good challenge!! Although it was a bit different from my past work, I put me all over it! [laughs]

 

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

 

A) I think it’s relatable! It’s playful loving! It’s about a woman being that all around fantasy! Classic, Ratchet and nasty! A man wants a little something different each time he gets with his lady. It keeps things interesting…He will wonder who he’s coming home to every night! I’m all for that! Let’s the role play begin!

 

Q) How did you come to work with Lil Flip on the song?

 

A) My manager, brother Rodney Banks and I were debating who would be a good fit… It was a great debate, trust me! At first my manager wanted a women rapper… I wanted a male. My manager suggested Lil Flip. He contacted his camp, and the rest is history!! Lil Filp was the best pick, hands down!

 

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

 

A) The visuals show the different sides I’m giving my video love interest Lil Flip. That rider, that boss babe, that sexy chick and that ratchet attitude a man needs in his life to keep him inline. You have to keep things interesting…

 

Q) The song has been playing on Yo MTV and BET! What does it mean to you to have your music played on these iconic networks?

 

A) It’s definitely a dream come true!! This is the first time one of my videos made it to these iconic video TV stations! It just shows me that we put together a winning project worthy of being shared with the world!! I’m truly blessed!!

 

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

 

A) It just depends. I can create a song in my mind without music, I can create a song around a melody that’s being played as well…It’s something that’s pure and organic for me. It’s hard to force Songwriting. If I had to choose. I feel having music to write to is easier.

 

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

 

A) It’s usually small. I’ve done some production work, but I leave that to the ones with that special gift.

 

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

 

A) Yes indeed! I have an EP I’m working on now. I’m also working on. Jazz album and a mixed tape. The mixed tape is a follow up to Straight From The Crates mixed tape I dropped two years ago. Now we’re finishing Vol 2! There’s so much going on behind the scenes, stay tuned!

 

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

 

A) I have a few. I love performing at SOB’s NYC, Jacobo Javits Center and ECO Park in LA! The two locations in NY are a must! Both had amazing sound and I was blessed to perform with so many artists that I admire. ECO Park and LA just had this vibe that was unmatched! The crowd was so loving. The sound system in the establishment was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced!! The subwoofers were built under the stage and vibrated right through your soul!! I was doing a reggae set, opening for some of the reggae legends. It was bananas!!! Can’t wait to do it again!

 

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

 

A) I’d love to collaborate with Raheem Devaughn. I think we would make magic together on a track!

 

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

 

A) In these times you must be on social media. That the best way to communicate information to your supporters. It is majorly important! Social media opens your brand up to everyone globally!

 

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

 

A) I’d like to thank them from the bottom of my heart! What I do is for them and their support in return helps me to stay motivated and ready to give them more! I’m blessed to have their love and support and I love you right back!!