Could you share the story behind your latest song and what inspired its creation?
Go and Seek the Light is the follow up to ‘Take God’s Hand’ which was on the charts for 9 weeks at number 1. It’s a wonderful song following the light of Jesus Christ.
How do you approach the process of songwriting, and are there any specific themes or emotions you tend to explore in your music?
I am not a songwriter, my husband Roy Singer and partner Mitchell Uscher, an award winning writing team, write my songs. They wrote ‘Take God’s Hand’ and ‘Go and Seek the Light’ at my request, I was a music minister at the First Baptist Church of Monticello for 17 years and my roots are there.
As an indie musician, how do you navigate the balance between creative freedom and commercial appeal?
I realized a long time ago that commercial appeal is practically hard to get, so I stick with creative freedom. I sing jazz and gospel and I love both equally.
What do you find most challenging about being an independent artist in today’s music industry?
The most challenging is being paid my fair share for my albums. After everyone get paid I’m usually financially broke. I love to sing, but after my streaming platform get’s my cd’s on Apple Music, Spotify and Amazon, I only receive a few pennies on the sale. It’s very challenging to work in a field where
the singer, that’s me, is constantly holding the bag and unable to just sing. I wonder if that’s what it means to be an independent artist.
Can you talk about your experiences collaborating with other artists or musicians?
I love working with the Ranses Colon Trio which consist of Brad Keller, piano, Ranses Colon, bass and Adolfo Herrera, drums. Also with Carlos Pinera my band manager, with the Diamond Jazz Orchestra an 18-piece big band.
How does it influence your creative process?
When you work with the highest level of professionals I have to have my A-game and be twice as good. The pressure is definitely on. WOW!! Exhilarating and Scary at the same time, YIKES!
What role does technology and social media play in promoting your music and connecting with your audience?
I’m on all streaming stations as well as social media platforms. These platforms have definitely taken me to a whole new level, but handing a CD to a fan is the best!
Are there any particular artists or genres that have had a significant impact on your musical style? Mahalia Jackson, a gospel super star and Nancy Wilson, a jazz singer of the highest caliber.
Indie musicians often have a close relationship with their fanbase. How do you engage with your fans and build a dedicated community around your music?
Because I’m from Upstate New York, we go back 1 to 2 times per year to do shows or fundraisers. I also have a fan base here in Florida, where Roy and I have lived for 10 years.
Could you describe a memorable live performance experience or tour that has had a lasting impact on you and your music?
I performed in Paris and after the show Roy and I celebrated our anniversary by renewing our vows at
the Eiffel Tower. Also in London, I sang on the steps outside of Buckingham Palace. I actually cried
because it was so powerful and wonderful.
In an era of streaming platforms, how do you feel about the changing landscape of music consumption and its impact on independent musicians?
Music has always had a leading impact on the world, I just pray I can keep up with financial, fan base and musician responsibilities. So far I’m doing fairly well and I’m swimming fine, just fine!