Where are you from?
Alabama. Lived in Birmingham then in Montgomery. Currently residing in Brooklyn, New York
What is your earliest memory of music?
Christmas, I believe 1994. The Temptations Christmas album
When did you start being an artist?
Rapping in the 2nd or 3rd grade was the start of my musical journey. When I turned about 13, I decided to perfect singing more. However I didn’t have my 1st official show singing until 2013.
How would you describe your style?
In fashion it’s everywhere. Literally. Lol. In music, I consider myself a mix of Adel and H.E.R.
Are there any particular themes or messages that you often explore in your music?
Inspiration and love themes mostly. Also life lessons. Things to relate to that others may feel they’re the only ones.
What is the meaning behind your stage name?
The meaning itself is defined as Lion or Eagle. It started off really being a short deviation from my real name. However people kept pronouncing it wrong so I changed the spelling. Turns out that didn’t work either but years later, what the heck, I kept it.
What is the story behind your most famous song?
RED is about someone you were in a relationship with, that you loved or strongly cared for and leaves you for whatever reason. It’s hard to get through at first because you didn’t want them to go, you don’t really know what happened and you’re a little lost. But then you start to see the anger (red) in your pain (referenced in window payne) and then realize you can move forward. You can continue to pick up those pieces, move on and continue with life.
What is the hardest thing about being an artist?
To be honest from my experience, being overlooked and wasting time with the wrong people who are fluff in the music industry.
What’s the best thing about being an artist?
Giving joy, fun and changing people’s lives in some way through my music. I’ve made people cry and dance. It elates my heart every time.
What are your goals for your music career?
To have a mini tour of successful headlined live shows. To also be in a place where I have steady work supporting my family, doing what I love.
What do you like to do in your free time (outside of music)?
Spend time with family, friends and animals, travel, sightsee, go to the park, eat at different restaurants, go to production shows such as ballets and broadways and last but not least, dancing!
Do you get involved with charities or causes that are important to you?
I never really been in the position to give as much as I want to but I have. My heart goes to charities for the elderly and rescue animals. I also care for veterans as well.
What is something that people would be surprised to know about you?
The old shows I love to watch. Love Bonanza, Gunsmoke, nostalgic black and white films, silent films, etc. 90’s shows I love won’t be that surprising.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Spend time with God, exercise, work or singing, eating, errands, tv then sleep
Do you have any upcoming projects we can be excited about?
I am releasing a new rendition of my single Can I Be Born Again soon following with my 2nd EP. Also have my first live performance in nearly 4 years coming up for the holidays at the Renaissance Hotel in NY!
What are some of the standout tracks on your latest project?
My leading single Can I Be Born Again. It reveals a real vulnerable side of me I’m sure others can relate to. My other one is Let’s Play. It touches the kid in your heart reminiscing on your childhood golden years when you had no responsibilities. It makes you find that glimpse back in your life as an adult.
What are your favorite topics to write about?
Love, life, and feel good grooves
How do you deal with creative block or artist block?
I get out of the house, sight see, take a stroll and listen to some of my favorite artists or songs relative to what I’m writing.
What is the best advice anyone has ever given you?
Don’t change your morals and values for anything or anyone and make sure I keep my foundation in my faith.
What was the best show or tour you have ever been on?
Testing The Waters Concert I headlined at the Davenport Theatre May 2018
What’s been your favorite moment of your career so far?
Releasing my first EP Testing The Waters
Where can people find your music online?
Spotify, iTunes, Youtube, YouTube music, Apple Music and more digital stores
