What would be your description of your sound and approach to making music?

I think the most important part about being an artist is that you remain honest – honest with yourself and honest with your audience. If you can do that, your mission and identity as an artist will become more clear to both you and the listener. Authenticity is important. People are drawn to it, so I don’t believe in censoring your creative expression.

Who are your influences to your sound and philosophy of how you deliver your music?

I have many influences, so it’s really hard to keep the list short. I would list Aaliyah, Sade, Maxwell, Prince, Missy Elliott, Luther Vandross, Whitney Houston, Michael and Janet Jackson to name a few.

What would you share as a main point to other up and coming talent?

Listen to as much music as possible. The more you learn, the more you will be inspired to create better material. And again, don’t censor yourself. Be open to what you listen to and what you allow yourself to express. You never know what you can create until you try.

What would your dream production team look like that you would like to work with?

I would love to work with Missy Elliott, Timbaland, Pharrell and Prince. They all have such unique and distinct sounds as producers.

Road story: Your best experience?

I have had some really cool and random writing sessions. I’ve written with BabyFace and Boy George joined one of my sessions for a bit! They were both awesome and nice.

What’s your favorite recording in your discography and why?

Well, I think my favorite songs of mine are still waiting to be created. But If I had to pick my five favorites, I would say “Get Together”, “Metaphysical”, “The Way You Make Me Sing”, Every Day” and “See You Girl”. Of course, my answer could change tomorrow!

Did you know…

I wake up really energized in the morning with an overwhelming urge to dance and sing to the most random songs that make me feel sexy. I might pick something like “Vogue” by Madonna or “So Addicted” by Truth Hurts and then turn it up way too loud. I’m sure my neighbors don’t appreciate it!  I think dancing early in the morning is absolutely necessary!

The first music project I bought was?

I don’t remember the first thing I bought, but I can remember listening to The Bodyguard Soundtrack, New Kids on the Block, Joni Mitchell, David Bowie and all of the Disney soundtracks when I was a child.

What music are you listening to now?

I’ve been listening to a lot of Queen Latifah, Masters at Work, Janet Jackson, Joni Mitchell and George Benson lately. I’m always discovering new music and returning to my favorites. Sometimes I’ll listen to one song on repeat alllll day.

What are some of you desert song picks?

Oh man. Hmmm … “Cherish the Day” by Sade. “Lujon” by Henry Mancini. The house version of “Queen of the Night” by Whitney Houston. “Never Too Much” by Luther Vandross. “Come Live with Me Angel” by Marvin Gaye. Can I add “Get Ur Freak On” by Missy Elliott?

What’s the magic for you in writing songs?

I really love the entire process of creating and like to be involved in every step. It’s about creating a world. And it’s your world! I love seeing a song go through it’s many stages. I am really into details, so I never find any part of creating tiresome or stressful. It’s all fun and exciting!

What is your favorite song to whistle or sing in the shower or around the house?

I love singing any Whitney Houston song because I can get really loud and dramatic and somehow imagine that my neighbors can’t hear me!

By day what are you doing?

Practicing, Networking, Teaching etc.

If I weren’t a vocalist, I would be trying to become a singer! There is nothing else for me.