Exclusive | Yannie Jones Talks The Release Of Her Debut EP "Fazes"
Inglewood singer, Yannie Jones talks the release of her debut EP, Fazes, and being influenced by her mother to pursue music in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
“I just want to make music that helps people heal through their hurt.”
By: Omar Cook
Inglewood singer, Yannie Jones, dropped her debut EP titled Fazes. The EP has 4 hot tracks with features from P1, and Steve G. Lover III. From the jump, Fazes opens up with a dope upbeat vibe with her track “P1” and finishes with a laid back banger, “Temporary”. The EP definitely will leave you wanting to hear more from this upcoming west coast artist. artist.
“I am Yannie Jones and I'm from Inglewood, CA. I have my Bachelors Degree in Psychology with a concentration on adolescent development. I finished school after having my son, in 2017. I am a full believer in doing what feels right at the right time. My journey has taken me through some different detours, or Fazes if you will, but I am proud of where it has landed me. Entering my 3rd decade of life, I have crossed so much off my list of goals and plan to keep setting and reaching them. With years of content and life experience, I am so excited for what the future holds. God has given me gifts I wasn't able to see until now and I plan on using them for the rest of my days.”
Yannie Jones - Show Me (feat. P1)
We talked with Yannie Jones in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Yannie Jones: Well, I come from a family of music lovers, singers and musicians. I've been singing since I could talk. But, I recorded my first song when I was 15 years old. A group of my friends wanted to start a management agency; it was called “The Circle”, and I was one of their proteges. They booked my first studio session.
Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Yannie Jones: My mom has always been my biggest influence. She was signed to Motown in the 80s and is the reason I love to sing. She would play Anita Baker, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Tamia, and Deborah Cox on our rides to and from school. She would drive an expedition full of girls who loved to sing and mainly because of how enjoyable she made it seem. It made us happy - still does.
What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Yannie Jones: I really like Vedo. Other than his voice being beautiful, I respect his hustle and how he came up from covers and just showcasing his talent proudly. I also have to thank him for his song “You got it” … I went through a faze where I was really unappreciated in a previous relationship and my best friend sent me that song. I cried and listened to it on repeat for dayssss. It helped me out the funk.
What inspired you to create your EP “Fazes”?
Yannie Jones: I was actually working on an album. (I still am.) In the midst of that, I created “Fazes” unintentionally. ¾ songs were created in one 4-hour session. The 4th song was made the next day. They seemed to tell a very clear story of different moments in life and love and the idea of making it an EP just came to me. It made sense that it would be my “hello” to the music scene officially.
What is your favorite track on the project and why?
Yannie Jones: Honestly, it changes every day. Right now, I'd say my favorite is “Never Thought” ft. Steve G. Lover. The song is full of feelings I’ve had multiple times in life. I love remembering the writing process and how naturally it came together. Then of course the vulnerability in the lyrics. We’re always hopeful in the beginning but most of the time, it ain't what we thought it would be, right?
How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Yannie Jones: Typically I'll hear a melody on a beat or think a phrase would be a cool song concept and I go from there. I hate forcing things so I pray on them, let go and let God.
What motivates you and how do you define success?
Yannie Jones: My son, Nieko, is the biggest motivation I could ever dream of. After having him, I realized I could do anything. As long as I don't waste my time here on earth, use all of my blessings and never stop trying, I’ll be successful.
How do you describe your music to people and what separates you from other artists in your genre?
Yannie Jones: I would describe my music as relatable. I think when listening to my music, you know I wrote it and went through it. I don't know if that separates me but I don't really want to know. I just want to make music that helps people heal through their hurt.
Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Yannie Jones: I guess it's proven that things have helped artists be successful - mainly money. But I always love to see it when talent is the reason behind someone’s big break! Not just a great marketing scheme. Like Bryson Tiller who borrowed $600 for a set up and changed his own life. No marketing scheme told him to buy that set up. That was meant to happen.
Yannie Jones - Temporary
Who is your greatest inspiration?
Yannie Jones: My family. In them, I have such a solid foundation. It's because of them I am not afraid to fail. I can make a million mistakes and fall down a trillion times and they will be there to pick me up and tell me to keep going. I need them. They will forever be my inspiration and reminder to focus on my own path.
In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Yannie Jones: I looooove me some Jhene! As a person, her genuineness is so beautiful. I've met Jhene a couple times just being from LA and being tied to a few of the same people but when I see her she is always so humble and greets me with love. Idk if she does that to everybody but I be feelin special. Lol. She sings her ass off. She's so relatable. She is movingly melodic. She's a mom. She’s a family person. She’s from LA! Yea, Jhene is my girl. Love her and all of her influence. Love to see her succeed and continue to rise.
Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Yannie Jones: Passion is a good one! My mood changes so much, one beat can make me feel sad and another can make me feel excited and proud. But I am passionate about it all.
What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Well, I work 2 jobs. Im raising a 5 year old black boy and still investing in myself and my dreams. I know I’m just getting started but it's all been out of pocket and I'm doing it because I have a little person watching me. I never want him to give up on what he loves doing. No matter how long it takes. So the answer is time. I think time is the biggest sacrifice I’ve made. My journey is full of speed bumps and stop signs and Ima keep going. But I be tired. Lol.
What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Hearing it back! Hearing what I wrote in the bathtub or the voice memo I made in the car on wax, that is the most exciting part to me. The discouraging part is when I hear counterproductive opinions. People can be so evil and not realize how sensitive artists can be. I’m working on not letting that affect me.
Yannie Jones - Never Thought (feat. Steve G. Lover III)
Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Well for starters out of my email! I've been collecting the bounces of my studio sessions for 15 years and this is the first time I've dropped a project. I'm recording with intent and I want multiple No.1s! I also work in behavior therapy and as an outreach coordinator, so I want to expand that and have somewhat of a big brother big sister entity and curate events that will enrich the child experience to be more enjoyable and therapeutic. I think we all need therapy and should not wait until we're adults to get it.
What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Do what makes sense to you. And be honest with yourself. So when the going gets tough, you know why you're doing it and nothing can distract you or change what you already know is right for you.
Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
Album comin soooooon!
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | Rapper Slim XxX Discusses Her Upcoming Debut EP & Her Single "Frontline"
Louisiana artist, Slim XxX talks creating music to inspire and encourage her fans, her motivation, musical influences, and her upcoming debut EP in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
“I’m passionate about making quality music that people can connect with.”
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Lousiana rapper, Slim XxX! I’m a Independent HipHop artist from Louisiana. In a day and age where female rappers are taking their throne, Slim XXX is emerging as a top tier talent. Slim XxX recently released her debut single just 7 months and is already making waves with some hot single releases leading up to her upcoming debut EP. This artist mixes a dope raw rap lyrics with smooth vocals on each track. Slim XxX has a sound that Hip Hop definitely needs to hear, an under the radar talent that won’t remain underground for too much longer!
Lemon Pepper Freestyle - Slim XxX
We talked with Slim XxX in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Slim XxX: I started writing poetry in my early years of middle school. That soon evolved into my passion for songwriting. I started professionally releasing music in 2019.
Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Slim XxX: That question is such a hard one because I simply don’t have favorites. I listened to a lot of R&B growing up. Lauryn Hill, Whitney Houston, The Temptations, an array of jazz musicians including Miles Davis and Ella Fitzgerald. I later grew a fascination for raw hiphop like Tupac, Jadakiss, Wu-tang Clan and N.W.A. Growing up in the south, good music is always close by or just around the corner. I don’t think I’d be the same artist today if I didn’t have so many great influences early on.
What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Slim XxX: I feel like I’d enjoy collaborating with 6lack, lil Wayne or Buddy. They all are insanely talented lyricist. I think we would make great music.
What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
Slim XxX: My debuted single “Frontline “ is one of my favorite releases. During the writing process I remember thinking “Am I really going to put this out?“ I overcame a lot of self doubt and fear. The feeling was amazing.
Slim XxX - Self Doubt [Official Music Video] [4k]
What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
Slim XxX: I am currently working on my Debut EP. I had a amazing time writing and recording this project and I’m beyond excited to share it with all my listeners.
How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Slim XxX: I start by playing the instrumental I’m working with and the song concept comes to me usually within seconds. If it doesn’t, I sit with it for a while, sometimes days and reflect on the memories that the music reminds me of.
What motivates you and how do you define success?
Slim XxX: The motivation for me is when I finish a song I’m proud of . It’s like a artist painting a portrait of themselves and finally stepping back to see their reflection. I’m in constant competition with myself and try to do better each time. Success for me is doing what I love. It’s hard for me to define Success in any other manner. Surrounding myself with people I love, doing what I love just seems so absolute.
How do you describe your music to people and what separates you from other artists in your genre?
Slim XxX: I create music based on personal experiences and emotions. My style is very different from most female rap artists in the game right now.
Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Slim XxX: Yes, Consistency and passion. I don’t think I’ve ever encountered a successful artist that didn’t have one of the two.
Slim XxX - Lite Rain [Official Music Video]
Who is your greatest inspiration?
Slim XxX: My faith in God has inspired me believe in myself and this makes way for any other inspiration in my life.
In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Slim XxX: Kanye - Although I wished his music never changed, all great things evolve. I also think Beyoncé has a great influence on the image of black women in entertainment and women themselves.
Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Slim XxX: My music embodies motivation more then anything. I aim to encourage my fans and shine a light in places too dark to see.
Slim XxX - Front Line [Official Audio]
What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Slim XxX: A lot of my time goes into creating music. I talk a lot about the Sacrifices I’ve made In my Ep, Song titled “Too Strong”. Being dedicated sometimes means spending hours writing or in the studio creating and recording .
What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Slim XxX: I love songwriting and creating melodies. Although Hearing them come to life in the studio is very comparable.
Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Slim XxX: I’d love to see my Albums reach around the world and influence female writers after me to be creative and passionate artist.
What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Slim XxX: Stay motivated and do the work. Remember Nothing comes easy and believing in yourself is like a superpower.
Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
Slim XxX: Thank you for listening to my music, I appreciate all my supporters. Stay tuned for more music.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | Lylo Gold Talks the Release of Her Debut Album 'Heartbreak & Wray'
London R&B singer, Lylo Gold talks the release of her debut album, Heartbreak & Wray! We talked with Lylo Gold in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is London based R&B songstress Lylo Gold! Lylo Gold recently released her debut album entitled ‘Heartache & Wray’, following a turbulent relationship which featured an array of melodic sounds that introduces you into her own world. This artist is building an impressive resume with over 250,000 accrued plays on Spotify and has also been featured on The Fader, The MOBO's Ones to Watch and The AfroPunk Playlist, making her an artist to watch throughout the UK and beyond.
Lylo Gold began singing at a young age of 11, and now at 25 years old, she has gone on to compose, write and co-produce an array of songs alongside a variety of artists. She is mostly known for some iconic releases including Starry Night & Over U, which were produced by frequent collaborator XVR BLCK. The UK has a number of talented artists, and Lylo Gold is another proven talent coming out of London. This artist has a voice that needs to be heard and don’t be surprised if you start hearing her name more in the near future!
We talked with Lylo Gold in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
A: I’ve been making music forever! I started writing poems and lyrics when I was around 7 and I started singing on stage at 11. I’ve always made music... I just lacked the confidence to front my own music. Until... (drum roll) NOW!!
QUESTION: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Lylo Gold: My biggest influence is Mariah Carey. I love her! Her voice is like water! It’s so incredible. I love male singers usually so I’m shocked really but I love so many artists! From Donell Jones, Usher, The Whispers, Earth Wind and Fire, Jasmine Sullivan, Whitney, Nai Palm, Amy Winehouse, Lauryn Hill, Erykah, Xavier Omar!!! Boys II Men... I just love a beautiful vocal!
Lylo Gold
Photo by: Gillian Murray
QUESTION: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Lylo Gold: I really want to work with Anderson Paak - he has this freedom in his music and a personality with it that I think evokes ideas in me from listening... to imagine a session. With his creativity and mine.... ooh... I get really excited! I feel this way about Q Tip, Pharrell, Beyonce... the list is extensive!
QUESTION: What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
Lylo Gold: Heartache and Wray... I actually love the project now - which is weird because we have a weird relationship. I loved the fact that I got expressive and experimental and allowed my vocals to really shine on this project... I’m not like one of those people who just care about my voice... I love the whole dynamic of a song, which I feel was expressed on this project.
QUESTION: What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
Lylo Gold: Amazing music, stunning videos and a reality tv show.... honestly!
QUESTION: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Lylo Gold: Music comes to me, I don’t look for it. Songs are already there... it’s just not everyone can hear them. I think I just channel what’s already there. Its the magic... it’s like you hear a language that no one else can hear - like Parsel tongue in Harry Potter - it’s wizardry!
QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Lylo Gold: Life is my motivation. Life is all about balance, progression, growth and love. I try to treat the world how I want to be treated. I try to be as loving as I can... I believe that we are all connected and all contribute to the state of the world. That makes me responsible. It means I know my place in the world and what I need to contribute to the world.
QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people?
Lylo Gold: I literally say. “You tell me”. My music to me sounds like different things dependent on my mood and where I am at emotionally when I listen.
QUESTION: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Lylo Gold: Yes, by committing yourself to your craft, respecting and believing in your craft. I think people have to invest in their talents... they have to see the value in it before anyone else does.
QUESTION: Who is your greatest inspiration?
Lylo Gold: My mum. She’s a Queen. She had two sets of twins and bossed at being a phenomenal mother!
QUESTION: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Lylo Gold: Beyonce…she works her arse off. There really isn’t anything more to say. Hard work pays off!
QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Lylo Gold: Love. Because I am love.
QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Lylo Gold: lol.... how much space do I have? I sacrificed time with my family, time with my friends, sleep, relationships, I’ve worked jobs I’ve hated, endured people I don’t like... allowed people to do things that I dislike for the sake of peace... I’ve made so many sacrifices! Especially financially!
QUESTION: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Lylo Gold: Writing the songs and adding the harmonies and ad libs! I love this stuff lol I like chords so I guess the creativity. I hate recording :(
QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Lylo Gold: Several awards. Several platinum plaques... I see myself happy with a family and a music school!
QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Lylo Gold: Work hard. Not just on your instrument, on yourself... work on your energy, your emotions, then your craft... your understanding of music.. learn as much as you can. Learn how people operate. Learn about the legalities...Learn to protect your talent.
QUESTION: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
Lylo Gold: I’m going to be releasing some of my best work in 2019. Follow me!!!
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN: