How long have you been on the music/entertainment scene? From my days of the school choir and concerts. I was into R&B, pop. Then, as I got older, I became a backup vocalist for Bacchanal Time Tent and Biggie Irie, Rupee and for various artistes on records, Machel Montano, Shurwayne Winchester, Gillo and many more . . . . So it’s been a while . . . literally my whole life.
When did you figure out soca/calypso was the path you are going to take? I always had a love for soca. I just wondered how I could be myself in the genre, but when I saw vocalists such as Alison Hinds, TC and Destra doing that I knew I would do the same and put my stamp on it.
What in your view was your big break? Last year with Stush. That song is me and most importantly real. Honestly, from day one I felt as though people were always watching my journey and last year’s success proved that even more. The public has really seen me grow up as an artiste.
Musical track record? Last year, first time reaching the semi-finals of Sweet Soca competition with Stush and I received the 2015 Barbados Music Awards Female Breakthrough Award.
Have you ever thought of quitting? Never!!!!! This is what I live for. What I truly believe I am here to do. I love what I do, what I create and best of all that people enjoy it. What could be better?
Hardest lesson you have learnt as a female in the music industry? People will try to take advantage of you but it’s up to you to let them know where you stand. You set the tone, not them.
What is your most memorable moment? The whole of last year was memorable. However, two moments stand out – performing in Antigua for a show called Stage and Stush was just released, but the crowd sang back the words. Then seeing Bajan flags in the crowd. The other is probably walking in the mall and this little girl runs up and just starts singing my song and says I love your song.
As a female artiste how important is image to you? My image is important. I truly just want to be myself. Yes, I want to look good, but being my true self is what I want the public to see, not a character or gimmick.
How do you stay grounded? My circle. They are real and keep it real with me.
How do you turn off and get away from it all? A little thing I love called sleep, Along with reading or getting totally addicted to some TV series.
What is your focus now in terms of your career? More exposure to other regions. I want to place more business behind the music and always to improve what I do. I want to be one of the best.
Thoughts on competition or entering competitions? Competition is exactly that; some will make it, some won’t. For me competition doesn’t define me as an artiste. If I enter and I don’t make it, the public is sure to know every stage I’m on I’m going to give them my all.
As an entertainer, are there any risks that you took that paid off or didn’t pay off? Choosing the life of an entertainer and it is definitely paying off.
Name your favourite song in your catalogue? All my songs are my babies. Stush because it is me but Hello warms my heart.
Your pet peeve? I really dislike to be kept waiting.
Plans for rest of season? It’s all about great performances and making sure people have a good time. That is what it’s all about.
If it wasn’t music what would it be? Fashion designer.
