Posts tagged "singer"

Meet TAMISH!

Have you ever just want to go after your passion no matter the sacrifices? Singer-songwriter TAMISH not only quit her job in advertising but she decided to pursue her passion for music full-time!

TAMISH has opened up for major artists including Babyface, Kelly Price, Slick Rick and MC Lyte. She has also provided back up vocals for Mariah Carey, Slick Rick, Charlie Wilson and T.I. on Showtime at the Apollo and Andra Day on BET’s Black Girls Rock. TAMISH is living passionately to inspire others and to make her songs have meaning.

You were born and raised in Chicago, what was it like growing up?

I grew up on the west side of Chicago, K – Town, so that’s in the hood. Chicago has some segregated parts of the neighborhoods. Being from K – Town, I was in the community but I was never influenced by it or it’s lifestyle from people who were in gangs, on drugs, etc. It made me want to do something more. Girls use to love the gangsters but that was not for me. I was never attracted to the bad boy type.
My mom and dad are both college graduates so I was exposed to a different lifestyle. My mom was trying to make it clear that I would see two different aspects of the black experiences: viewing people on drugs in my neighborhood and the college educated in my household.

For your debut, “Met You”, what inspired you to create that song?

Once I graduated from college, I moved to New York City and worked in advertising. Then I quit my job and focused on music full time because I felt lead to do so by the Lord. I moved to Los Angeles and I had an opportunity to work in a studio in LA. While working there I was able to record my music.
I wrote “Met You” in New York, but I didn’t have anyone here to help me put it all together. I recorded “Met You” out in LA and we literally created it from the ground up. And was able to add all of the musical elements that I wanted. Then I recorded a rough version of it. I wasn’t sure what kind of sound I wanted to go for when I was ready to release my first project. Once I recorded it and when I first heard it, I was like “this is something I will release and share to the world”.

You have opened for many major artists and have sang backup for many artists, how have those experiences affected your career?

I think it was life – changing because I knew I felt like I needed to do it and I went for it. The opportunities just reassured me that I made the right decision because from quitting my job to pursue a singing career, I felt like I was a little crazy. However, it made it clear that what God gave to me was true. I didn’t apply for these opportunities that came to me so I can’t take credit for anything. People who heard and believed in me recommended me to others. It made me feel validated. Once I released my debut and I had my single release show, that’s when I got connected with an opportunity to open for Babyface, and then Mariah Carey. I didn’t apply for any of these opportunities. Because of this, it helps keep me in check.

What was the biggest challenges you have faced as a singer?

I think the first one was finding my sound like what I want to talk about. If you’re not clear on what you want to talk about, you will write crazy stuff that you don’t believe in. Even in the beginning, we were writing songs or writing stuff with crazy topics I wouldn’t even say. It made me really clear on what I want to talk about and what I wanted to stand for as a creative person. I wanted to make sure that I talk about something that means something and worth releasing.

We are all about empowerment, what does it mean to you?
Educating, liberating and activating a person or group of people to take charge of their lives, and choices, and make a change, if needed, for the better.

Tune in + follow Tamish’s beautiful voice here!

Website: www.Tamishonline.com
Get social here! @tamishonline

Interview by: A’yanna Rouse, Teen Writer + C.O.R.E Intern

Meet Angel Brown!

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Feature, Latest | by — July 6, 2016

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Beautiful voice, undeniable passion and a bright future are the ingredients bubbling up from rising singer Angel Brown! Hailing from St. Augustine, FL and raised in Palm Coast, FL, Angel’s love for music started at the tender age of six. She would always shared her vocal talents around the house and eventually joined her choir throughout elementary & high school while gaining notoriety locally.

Angel later had the pleasure of performing in Kids Got Talent at the age of 12, Florida’s Best, as well as Amateur Night at the Ritz where she won 1st place consecutive times. Determined to make it she created a YouTube channel and began posting covers, covering the most recent and popular songs. Her videos were slowly getting recognition from different sources including American Idol and The Voice. She also caught the ear of Danielle Swinton who has aided in launching and developing her craft in the industry.

Angel is inspired by singers like Whitney Houston, Beyoncé and Selena Quintanilla, and performers like Prince, and the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Angel wants her music to resonant with many and transcend genres. She wants the music she creates to be timeless, so right now she is developing her writing skills. Angel’s goal is to became the ultimate performer and hopefully a household name.

Let’s get to know Angel a little better…
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You have a beautiful voice, what motivated you to jump into music?
Well, I never really  ‘jumped’ into music. My passion was always there to sing I just didn’t start taking it serious until I was about 10 years old. I was always coming up with songs and performing and trying to mimic different celebrities. Every time my school would have a talent show I’d be right there ready to sign up. I was just always ready to show what I had and learn more about my craft. I never rested on my potential.
Chasing + creating your dream can get a little tough at times, how do you regroup and motivate yourself when you’re feeling a little defeated?
It is really easy to feel defeated when you’re told “no” a lot in this industry. I’m human so of course there’s been times where I would feel down about my position but throughout that, my passion never left. Yes, I would take time to regroup and continue but I never gave up on myself and don’t plan on it. So when I get into a difficult place like that, I’ll watch different documentaries on amazing legends such as Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Beyoncé and just really study their come up in the industry and how they overcame situations similar to mine.
Style is a way to describe yourself without speaking, how would you describe your fashion + music
style?
I love wearing neutral colors, I love the basic and simple yet flirty and sexy look that’s really trending
today. Every now and then I’ll rock some sneakers but I’m more into sandals and heels and boots. My music style is definitely an Urban Contemporary Pop R&B style all formed into one. I want to bring back classic, feel-good music. I want to bring back timeless music.
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We tend to pull characteristics from others in our lives or from people we admire, who inspires you and
why?
The majority of my inspiration from the late beautiful Aaliyah and Selena Quintanilla and Beyoncé. I
admire Aaliyah and Selena both for their humility. They always remained grounded and humble and just full of life. They made amazing music that changed lives and the industry forever.  I admire Beyoncé for not only her music and the doors she’s open for so many African American women but also for her work ethic. That’s extremely motivating.
What advice would you give girls who want to follow their dreams and passions?
My advice would definitely  come from one of my favorite quotes “Nothing worth something comes without a cost.” Every single thing in life requires some type of work to get to where you want to be. And that’s the price you would pay. If it was so easy to maintain your goals then the entire world would be fine. But to get to your goal and destiny you have to keep pushing and striving to get better. There’s always room to grow.
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We are all about female empowerment, What does EMPOWERMENT mean to you?
Empowerment to me definitely means helping others even when you’re down. It means being selfless and courageous. It’s okay to speak your mind and still maintain grace and beauty. It means being self aware and spreading positive vibes all around you no matter the circumstance. It means not letting defeat get the best of you so that you can continue to prosper. It means loving yourself. Always love yourself and the way God made you and no matter what may come your way you’ll always be able to look at yourself at the end of the day and be proud.
Time for the Faves! Celeb Crush? Trey Songz Artist? Beyonce Food? Pizza Movie? Selena: The Movie

 

Check out more Angel here!

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SnapChat: itsherangel

Meet LiYAH!

The perfect combination of talent, determination &  positive energy are the ingredients that continue to sky rocket LiYAH’s booming musical career!  Her new single “Radio”, — produced by Grammy Award winning “Huge Music” — embodies the energy and youthful spirit that LiYAH radiates as an entertainer.

Co-Headlining with LL Cool J at a packed American Airline’s Arena in Miami, Liyah never looked back after feeling the rush of performing live. She has toured internationally with Pitbull, ignited the Power 96 stage at the Calle Ocho Festival and performed alongside Busta Rhymes, Flo Rida, Keri Hilson, Rick Ross and more. LiYAH’s  single, “Raise Em High” has charted in over 48 countries and charted number one internationally.

Born in Durban, South Africa, LiYAH was just a year old when her family moved to South Florida. Always her biggest fans, LiYAH’s family has supported her passion for music from a young age. LiYAH has worked with numerous Grammy award-winning producers and Platinum-selling recording artists and songwriters, including J-Kwon, Mims, Hugo Diaz, Streetrunner, Drop, and Delisha Thomas. Paving the way for a new age of independent artists, Liyah and her team are poised to hit the road to promote her new single and continue to spread positivity and love to her ever growing fan base.

Let’s get to know LiYAH a little better…

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You’re an incredibly talented young lady who has performed + worked with top artists such as LL Cool J , Pitbull, Busta Rhymes, Flo Rida, Keri Hilson, Rick Ross and more, how did you dive into your amazing singing career at such an young age?
I knew from the time I could walk and talk that I was going to be a pop star. I was always different from everyone, which was a good thing. I didn’t want to do what everyone else was doing, my only goal was to be a successful artist. I always envisioned myself from the age of 4 performing in sold out arenas, and being a role model, someone my fans could relate to; I know crazy at such a young age.

Being originally from Durban, South Africa, does your music reflect your culture?
I was born in Durban South Africa, but I moved to Miami when I was a year old. So I think more than anything my music is a representation of me, Liyah.

You’ve already accomplished so much at an young age! If you had to choose, what would be the biggest highlight in your blossoming career so far?
The highlight of my career was being able to tour South Africa as the opening act for Pitbull. That was a dream come true, my first biggest tour in the country I was born in, it doesn’t get any better than that!

Being young and having responsibilities can sometimes get to be a bit overwhelming, how do you regroup and motivate yourself when you’re feeling a little defeated?
This is such a tough business, so feeling a little defeated is not uncommon. But when I feel that way I usually like to spend some time alone, gather my thoughts and at the end of the day I know what my ultimate goal is.

What advice would you give girls who want to follow their dreams and passions?
My advice would be to never stop dreaming, make a statement, express yourself & always fight for what you believe in no matter what!

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Your future is shining extremely bright! What projects can we expect from you in the near future?
I am extremely excited to announce that I am currently in the creative process as we speak, working on a new project. This project is so special to me, because it’s going to show my fans who I really am. It’s an extremely personal and vulnerable side of me. This project in particular hasn’t been easy for me, I’m really baring my soul. I believe the end result will be fulfilling and hopefully have made an impact on a few lives, and that to me is what matters most.

We are all about female empowerment, What does EMPOWERMENT mean to you?
Female empowerment means EVERYTHING to me. I want to be able to rule the world one day! I believe females are equally as powerful as males. It’s so important to have a strong message these days and really stand for what you believe in. And most importantly be a role model, someone that girls can look up to, and relate to, in a positive way.

Time for the Faves! Celeb Crush? Artist? Food? Movie?
My celeb crush would have to be Eminem, because he’s so passionate, you can hear the passion in his voice through his songs. He
means what he says. I admire the fact that he really speaks his mind regardless of whether or not people like it. My favorite artists would have to be the Queen herself Madonna, of course Michael Jackson and last but not least, someone I’ve always held close to my heart Selena Quintanilla Perez! My favorite food is avocados, I know some people think I’m a little crazy.. And my favorite movie, Selena!!!!!!!


Check out more of LiYAH here

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Meet Karen McCormick!

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Feature, Latest | by — August 19, 2013

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“It all started with a Taylor Swift song!” Karen states when asked about how her love for country music came about. After hearing Swift for the first time while in the car with her father, she instantly became hooked, and started to work on creating a country music career of her own!

At the age of 13 she received her first guitar for Christmas and wrote her first song in 30 minutes that same day. Since then, this talented young lady has continued to write songs, played several fairs and festivals, as well as visited and performed in a variety of venues in Nashville, TN. Karen is currently working on writing more songs.
Let’s get to know Karen a little better…
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How did you first dive into music?
It started when I was about 7, my dad encouraged me to join the children’s choir at church. When I was 11, I was in the car with my dad and “Tim McGraw” by Taylor Swift came on. I absolutely fell in love with it. I learned more about Taylor’s career, and I wanted to be just like her. I started begging my dad to buy me a guitar and to take me to Nashville. When I was 13, he gave me my first acoustic guitar for Christmas. I haven’t put it down since!
Music is a powerful tool to express yourself, how has it impacted your life?
Music has changed my life in the most wonderful way possibly. I had a really hard time expressing myself when I was younger, and as soon as I started writing music, playing guitar, I found it was kind of therapy in a way. It makes me the happiest I’ve ever been and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
What has been your favorite song you’ve covered? How long did it take you to learn?
“If I Die Young” by The Band Perry is my go to song for every performance I do. I love The Band Perry and I think it’s an amazing song. It took me a day to learn it, about a week to perfect it. I participated in a local talent show here called “Got Talent Spokane?” which was actually my first real gig for about 400 people, and I sang that song. The winner was determined by audience votes, and I ended up taking first place. I call my lucky song now. 🙂
What are 3 pieces of advice you would give to girls who wanted to pursue their dreams in music but are too nervous to start?
1. Go For it!
2. Believe in Yourself!
3. Have fun!
Music is such a natural thing for me, I have a hard time believing that people could nervous doing what I do. But of course I’m human and I have my insecurities and sometimes when I’m up on stage I worry “Are they enjoying this? What do they think of me?” Of course I want to make people happy with my music, that’s why I do it, but at the end of the day, I should only be concerned with about what I think of myself. Life is way too short to not take chances and take advantage of the opportunities, so if something comes along, go for it. The most important thing is to always believe in yourself and have fun. You’re capable of so much more than you may think!
If you could perform with anyone on stage who would it be and why?
I love this question! I would be honored to perform with so many people. But right now I’d have to say Taylor Swift. She’s an amazing writer and entertainer, I love that she really brings her songs to life when she’s on stage. I look up to her as a performer and hope to be at that level of success one day.
We are all about empowerment at C.O.R.E mag, What does empowerment mean to you?
To me empowerment is taking pride in yourself, and what you have. Being an African-American, it’s a little unusual that I sing country music. But being from Africa, and growing up with two parents from very different cultures, I am able to have different influences in my music, which in turn makes me different. It’s important to own what you have with confidence and take pride in what makes you, you.
 
Where do you see your music taking you in the next 5 years?
Right now I’m planning on moving to either Nashville, TN or Houston, TX within the next year. I’d love to work some songwriters and meet some important people in the country music industry. I’m hoping to record an EP or possibly a full length album. From there I really want to tour. I’d love to travel and see different parts of the world and share my music with people. It’s all up in the air, I’m taking it a day at a time!
Fave Food? Artist? Song? Celeb Crush?
Food: I love pizza, I would eat it every day if I could!
Artist: Taylor Swift! I love Carrie Underwood, Blake Shelton, and Miranda Lambert as well.
Song: Right now it’s The Way by Ariana Grande. It’s such a fun song to dance too when I’m getting ready in the morning.
Celeb Crush: This is so hard! It tends to change..but I’d have to say Justin Bieber. He’s a cutie!

Check out more Karen here!

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