Dynamic Song Stylist

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: I record on my voice memo for spur-of-the-moment song ideas. It doesn't matter if the lyrics or music comes first. Sometimes both will come at the same time. I stay open and listen to that inner spirit of the song. If a client has a song (the music), it depends on whether they want me to do vocals and/or write lyrics. I did this often with the recording studios. They would call me in on a project, and I would create the vocals in the moment. A scratch track was next, or if the artist already knew what they wanted, I would sing what parts they needed. I work out several rough drafts until I have a nice base. Let my ears rest a few days. Refine. Record....that's the process I'm using now, from years of working with and observing the pros do it.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: Harmonies. I thoroughly enjoy playing with sound. I may be singing leads, and I hear all the variations of harmonies-and sounds. I record all of what I hear-nothing wasted. I admit, it does help to have a three-octave range. I'm blessed to still have that vocal flexibility.

Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.

A: Leads, Backgrounds and Harmonies.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: I have freedom to live my life doing what I love-music.

Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?

A: My musical journey spans decades (50+ years), and many genres. Media, Theater and Dance complete my background. A foundation rooted, grounded and established singing and playing instruments in family gospel groups, church and school. Blues/Funk/Old-School R&B showtime bands, singing with community choral groups alongside symphony orchestras at international arts festivals, guest soloist performances at charitable and community events and private affairs (weddings, anniversaries and birthdays are my all-time favorites), working with recording studios and artists-it's a wonderful ride.

Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?

A: Ike Thompson's song, It's Praying Time. He wrote it in its entirety. He called me. We worked out the backgrounds and harmonies. A lot of fun. That was 2011; to date, that song has 6,000 plus views on his YouTube Channel. He is very professional. I would work with him anytime.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: You need both. That is something I learned from a sound engineer who does orchestra projects. Current technology, however wonderful, can never replace certain techniques unique to analog.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Talk with your client to find out what they want, listen, take lots of notes and deliver.

Q: What type of music do you usually work on?

A: I am diving into custom love songs for couples getting married (and eloping); or, celebrating their wedding anniversaries. That's the starting point. Later, I'll add other life events to create songs of life and love. The genre-the client decides. Personally, ballads and gospel are my core, my voice.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: I am transitioning. After years of performing in between full-time military wife, mother and grandma duties, I'm getting back into music full-time. I keep it simple. A keyboard for working out song ideas and practicing vocals is all I use to lay a foundation and communicate what I need with studio professionals.

Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A: Take time to get what you want. You are making history, a lasting memory. Be thoughtful in this process. Enjoy creating your masterpiece.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: A Capella Scripture & original Christian songs. My first time on the producing side.

Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?

A: Poof! Magic! Easy!

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: Who is this song for? What emotions and feelings do you want? What artists and songs are your references?

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: Smooth. Lounge. Calming.

Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?

A: Oleta Adams. I love her work. Tramaine Hawkins is an all-time favorite. I lean towards musicians who have some formal music training.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: My heart . I listen to hear the core message, feelings, mood. I give a fresh or a surprising interpretation; a different perspective and viewpoint.

Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?

A: Beyonce, Patrice Rushen, Oleta Adams, Anita Baker. Bach, Yanni, Henry Mancini, Paul Hardcastle, Quincy Jones, Isaac Hayes, EWF, Little Richard...too many. I love them all.