INTERVIEW:
Tiana Major9
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AS I crane my neck in the direction of 2018…
my mind lures after the artists who will make an impact. Tiana Major9 sounds almost super-futuristic and intergalactic in some ways. In fact; her music perfectly balances future beats and classical Soul/R&B sounds. There is a fusion of Jazz and sensuality; vivacious vocals and a compelling mix of sounds and smells! I ask the East London-based songwriter about her British-Jamaican heritage and growing up three siblings. She talks to me about her new song, Levee (Let It Break) and getting support from some of the nation’s hippest and finest radio stations.
Tiana Major9 discusses her pursuit of music and the sounds she was raised on; a few new name that have caught her eye; how she will end 2017 - what it is like having so many dedicated and passionate fans around the world.
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Hi, Tiana. How are you? How has your week been?
I’ve been well, thank you! Been busy, as per. Ha.
For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?
Hey newbies! My name is Tiana Major9. I am a singer-songwriter from East London. I fuse Jazz with R&B - and I style myself.
Levee (Let It Break) is your new track. What is the background of this track?
So. Levee (Let It Break) is about the art of being vulnerable and how I generally hate it - but understand that it is necessary when you love someone. In the song; I admit that (I know that) I can be reserved when it comes to expressing my true feelings - but I’m willing to do better for the sake of keeping those that love you around.
Levee (Let It Break) was also produced by Prgrshn (@Prgrshn)!
Stations like BBC R1Xtra have thrown their weight behind it. Does it give you energy and inspiration knowing your music connects?
Having stations like BBC 1Xtra backing my music is really a dream because it gives me the confidence to know that my music has the ability to connect with a wider audience.
This is your second single – it seems like are already fully-formed and commanding! Do you feel your yourself growing in confidence and status?
Slowly.
I’m becoming more confident in my ability - now that I know the songs I write aren’t only loved by my friends and family.
Did you experience a lot of different sounds? Who were the artists you grew up with?
I grew up listening to artists like Yolanda Brown, Bebe and Cece Winans - but also Chris Brown, Amerie; Brandy and Lauryn Hill.
What comes next in terms of singles and moves? Do you have plans for next year?
I plan to continue releasing music, visuals...more shows, of course! 2018 is gonna be a good year for Tiana Major9 music.
IN THIS PHOTO: Taliwhoah
If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?
Lauryn Hill’s MTV Unplugged album helped me with my writing; Voodoo by D’Angelo helped me with my musicality and In a Dream by Gretchen Parlato helped me improve my vocal technique.
All amazing albums that I highly recommend you get into...
What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?
My advice to upcoming artists is to stay true to yourself, make the music you want to make and enjoy the journey.
On top of that: practice like there’s no tomorrow.
Can we see you perform anywhere at the moment? What gigs do you have coming up?
I have a gig at Jazz Cafe on the 20th December - presented by Muzikal Seduction. You can find all the details on my socials!
Christmas is not too far away. Do you have plans already - or will you be busy working?
I work part-time, so I’ll be working - but I will continue to write (of course).
You have a lot of dedicated fans out there. How important are they to you? What message would you give them?
Yo. It’s crazy that people actually mess with my music. L.M.A.O. I just wanna say thank you to everyone that shows support to the movement. I won’t disappoint.
2018 will be an amazing year…stay tuned!
Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).
D’Angelo - Spanish Joint
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