I AM A MUSICIAN

I have never really had to deal with that. I have been lucky enough to be approached and treated like any other musician would be. It helps as well to see yourself as more of a musician than a singer. Be professional, be the leader of your band, be the leader of your BRAND. People respect you when you respect yourself and your art.

What have been some of your successes? Challenges?

My scholarship to Berklee, my performance at the Louis Armstrong museum in Queens, New York, and generally the fact that I have carved a name for myself in the market all count as successes to me. As for challenges, there is a lack of places and opportunities for live music. I wish the market would grow and I wish the powers that be would invest more in the arts. I found absolutely no challenges breaking into the business. I think primarily because of my approach to my career, the plan I had for my career and the fact that I was able to execute. I think I garnered a lot of respect from fellow musicians along the way. I never felt like a female musician. I was a musician.

Jazz is not heavily supported here. How do you survive in this environment?

Good question. You just keep trodding on I guess, you get frustrated at times with the fact that the powers that be don’t recognise you unless you sing a particular type of music, but you keep trodding with the hope that eventually you will make a mark enough to influence change within your country. That’s how I do it!

How does a local jazz artist break into the international market?

Well I am still trying to figure that out. I think what we need to be is prepared so that when the opportunity arises we can grasp it because we are ready.

Can we talk a little about your personal life?

I come from a large, close knit family, grew up with grandparents with the parents very close by. My upbringing had a lot to do with what I do now. I was always encouraged to be in the arts and to this day I have a very supportive unit. My husband of twelve years is a major part of this business and he promotes my brand. I have a fourteen-month old as well. I’m checking him out and I think he may just sing a little when he gets older.

What is next for you?

More recordings in the short term, and staying focused, healthy and happy in the long term.