Support past I.M.Fly artist of the month Jess Abran , by purchasing her new album entitled "The Closet". Supportez une artiste precendent de mois, Jess Abran, en achetant son nouvel album intitulé "The Closet".
Jess Abran Facebook Page
Friday, December 31, 2010
Jess Abran
Labels:
Jess Abran,
MYK Jess,
Pirates,
The Closet album
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Artist of the Month: Joyanne Thorne
New on the Montreal R&B scene, Joyanne Thorne hopes to pave her on path. This Bajan born songstress has big goals for 2011, and she is well on her way to fulfilling them with the release of her new video "Be Free" (directed and produced by Labnoise). Montreal we introduce you the last I.M.Fly artist of the month for 2010, Miss Joyanne Thorne!
Question 1 What made you decide to pursue a career in singing?
From the time I was a little girl I was always singing in my school choir, I loved it I would watch amazing singers like Whitney Houston and say to myself that the stage is where I want to be.
Question 2 Which artist have influenced your musical style?
My all time musical influence is Whitney Houston.
Question 3 Fill in the blank. Music makes me feel____?
Music makes me feel " Alive "
Question 4 What was the concept behind your hit single “Be Free”.
The concept was to just live life to the fullest, don't ever look back if someone tells you "' you can't do it"" DO It don't listen to anyone just listen to your heart. In this world there is so much negativity and people that will put you down and honestly we have been given a life to make the best of it. So the reason behind the single is to just don't ever tell your self that you can't or that you won't succeed in anything that you put your mind to.
Question 5 Where do you see your musical career in 5 and 10 years from now?
In 5-10 years I see myself being the best artist musically that I can be. There is always room to learn and grow and with experiencing we always will achieve that. I can say the obvious thing which is performing,touring and living my dreams to the fullest but as an artist I am excited for the next 5-10 years because I will gain much more maturity as an artist.
Question 6 What artist(s) from Montreal and abroad would like to collaborate with?
From montreal I would love to collaborate with Karma Atchykah, I have been a fan and I really do like his style of music. International artist that is a hard question but I would love to work with J Cole.
Question 7 Being from Barbados, do you feel you have an advantage or disadvantage in entering the music industry in Canada?
Being an artist born in Barbados now living in Canada there is a slight advantage because I have been exposed to different cultures. In the islands we have our soca, reggae and dub. I know that people really love to see new artist develop from all over the world. but an artist from the Caribbean brings a certain flavor to there music.
Question 8 What future projects are your currently working on?
Right now I am wrapping my E.P. I think its very important to choose the right music to fully introduce yourself to the industry.
Question 9 When can we see you perform live?
My next performance will be at Tapis Rouge (December 23, 2010), the event is being held by Morburn Music and Reason Entertainment. All proceeds from this event will go to the Sun youth Organization so please come out and support.
Question 10 What is your definition of FLY?
My definition of I.M Fly is whatever makes you happy and comfortable in life. If you look in the mirror and like what you see and smile in my books your fly.
Join her Facebook Fanpage by clicking here
To check out more from Joyanne exclusive A.O.T.M photoshoot click here
Check out Joyanne Thorne lattest video "Be Free" directed and produced by Labnoise
.
Question 1 What made you decide to pursue a career in singing?
From the time I was a little girl I was always singing in my school choir, I loved it I would watch amazing singers like Whitney Houston and say to myself that the stage is where I want to be.
Question 2 Which artist have influenced your musical style?
My all time musical influence is Whitney Houston.
Question 3 Fill in the blank. Music makes me feel____?
Music makes me feel " Alive "
Question 4 What was the concept behind your hit single “Be Free”.
The concept was to just live life to the fullest, don't ever look back if someone tells you "' you can't do it"" DO It don't listen to anyone just listen to your heart. In this world there is so much negativity and people that will put you down and honestly we have been given a life to make the best of it. So the reason behind the single is to just don't ever tell your self that you can't or that you won't succeed in anything that you put your mind to.
Question 5 Where do you see your musical career in 5 and 10 years from now?
In 5-10 years I see myself being the best artist musically that I can be. There is always room to learn and grow and with experiencing we always will achieve that. I can say the obvious thing which is performing,touring and living my dreams to the fullest but as an artist I am excited for the next 5-10 years because I will gain much more maturity as an artist.
Question 6 What artist(s) from Montreal and abroad would like to collaborate with?
From montreal I would love to collaborate with Karma Atchykah, I have been a fan and I really do like his style of music. International artist that is a hard question but I would love to work with J Cole.
Question 7 Being from Barbados, do you feel you have an advantage or disadvantage in entering the music industry in Canada?
Being an artist born in Barbados now living in Canada there is a slight advantage because I have been exposed to different cultures. In the islands we have our soca, reggae and dub. I know that people really love to see new artist develop from all over the world. but an artist from the Caribbean brings a certain flavor to there music.
Question 8 What future projects are your currently working on?
Right now I am wrapping my E.P. I think its very important to choose the right music to fully introduce yourself to the industry.
Question 9 When can we see you perform live?
My next performance will be at Tapis Rouge (December 23, 2010), the event is being held by Morburn Music and Reason Entertainment. All proceeds from this event will go to the Sun youth Organization so please come out and support.
Question 10 What is your definition of FLY?
My definition of I.M Fly is whatever makes you happy and comfortable in life. If you look in the mirror and like what you see and smile in my books your fly.
Join her Facebook Fanpage by clicking here
To check out more from Joyanne exclusive A.O.T.M photoshoot click here
Check out Joyanne Thorne lattest video "Be Free" directed and produced by Labnoise
.
Labels:
A.O.T.M,
Be Free,
I.M.Fly,
Joyanne Thorne,
Labnoise,
Montreal R and B
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Music from the pirate herself, Jess Abran, past I.M.Fly Artist of the Month
Find more artists like Myk&Jess at Myspace Music
Past I.M.Fly Artist of the Month, Miss Sonia-Soul delivers another powerfull song for all the woman out there!
Find more artists like Sonia-Soul at Myspace Music
Winter love song written and performed by Amos Joannides
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Rock THAT Mustache (Movember/Movembre)
Mardi dernier, 30 novembre, I.M.Fly été un commanditaire officiel de équipe five-one-four et leur événement pour collecter des fonds pour la sensibilisation cancer de la prostate. L'événement a eu lieu au Club Rouge et a reuni les meilleures moustaches du l'île pour une nuit “FLY”. Nous tenons à remercier les partisans d' I.M.Fly qui sont venus a appuyé Movember et tout le monde en présence qui en fait une soirée mémorable et “FLY”. Voici la lien au autre photos du événement: Movembre à Club Rouge.
Last Tuesday, November 30th, I.M.Fly was an official sponsor of team five-one-four's Movember fundraiser for Prostate Cancer Awareness. The event was held at Club Rouge and brought out some of the best moustaches on the island of Montreal, the event was rightfully titled Rock That Moustache. We would like to thank the fly fans that showed their support to Movember and everyone else in attendance that helped make it a “FLY” and memorable evening. Click on the link to see more pictures from the night: Movember at Club Rouge
You may not use these pictures without written consent from Bretton Dyte.
Vous ne pouvez pas utiliser ces images sans le consentement écrit de Bretton Dyte.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Natural Bliss
We live in a world of 9-5
stop and go, rush hour traffic
we came from places
where humility was not an option
but a way of life
Monday thru Friday
presentations to deadlines
we get absorbed by what to do next
ask yourself what should you do now?
when we were born, life was simple
eat, sleep and play
everyday was a new day
a new playground waiting to be explored
as we got older, the playground shrunk
and the exploration became confined
suddenly we are worried about what to do
where to be
how to get there
the natural bliss is the natural surrondings
we've choosen to ignore
not by choice but by way of life
laptops, cell phone, cars, jewlery
all of these are adjectives we've placed on our life
live, is a verb that should never be conjucated
"I lived, I was living" those words should not leave our lips
So I ask you, "When will you choose to LIVE?"
the beauty of the unseen world
is one that will leave a lasting memory
a picture gives temporary justice
an expedition to the untouched lands
gives your mind, body and soul
medicine unclaimed by the doctors of today
but by the landowners of the past.
Poem by KTH
Photograph of Tanzania safari by I.M.Fly artist of the month Matt Hood
Photographie du safari Tanzania prises par I.M.Fly artiste du mois Matt Hood
You may not use this picture without written consent from Matt Hood.
Vous ne pouvez pas utiliser cette image sans le consentement écrit de Matt Hood.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
The Power of the Pencil
with a pencil in my hand
the journey of my imagination
will be driven by each stroke of lead
the power of my thoughts
will be reflected in each shading of darkness
my mouth remains shut
my speech is not in words
but reflected in each line I connect
the power of the pencil
is too strong to explain
every emotion I have bottled up
becomes displayed without shame
my passion exudes from me
like tears from a newborn
thus my thoughts slowly flow
on this blank canvas,
depicting the power my pencil has
my art has handcuffed my hands
until my masterpiece is completed
the power of the pencil
will have my heart arrested
due to the journey my mind fears to take.
Poem by KTH
Drawing by C.R Dubé
Copyright Innovative Motion 2010
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Artist of the Month: Matt Hood
Question 1 When did photography become your passion?
Around 2005/2006
Question 2 Who has influenced your photography?
Close friends, teachers, professional photographers
Question 3 Photography reminds me of____?
experimentation, mistakes, trial & error, fun!
Question 4 Where do you see yourself in 5 and 10 years from now?
Working within a field that makes me happy, hopefully that will be a combination of photography & video.
Question 5 What projects are you currently working on?
- A series entitled "Mum & Me" about the relationship between my late mother and myself
- A few projects for Winter 2011 in East Africa (political and wildlife photography)
Question 6 What do you hope people get from attending one your exhibits?
An original perspective (either on the subject at hand or simply within photography itself)
Question 7 What other genres of art would you like to excel at?
Metal work, kinetic sculpture, music.
Question 8 Behind every picture there is _____?
...a nail in the wall
Question 9 If you had to pick 3 things to take with you to a deserted island what they would be?
Serta Beauty-rest Queen sized bed (with pillow top)
Sirius Satellite radio
A bridge to an undeserted island
Question 10 What is your definition of FLY?
Refusing to let current trend or vogue cloud ones judgement
Official Matt Hood website : Hoodvisuals.com
Labels:
A.O.T.M,
Charity,
I.M.Fly,
I.M.Fly Artist of the Month,
Matt Hood,
Photography
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Movember
I.M.Fly avec Peter Anthony Raimondo du groupe Movember [ROCK THAT MOUSTACHE] unissent leurs forces dans la lutte contre le cancer de la prostate. Depuis la 1er novembre Peter grandissait de plus en plus sa moustache pour ramasser l'argent pour créer d'attention a cette terrible maladie qui affectent les hommes à travers le monde. Cliquez sur le lien ci-dessous pour faire un don pour cette bonne cause. Le mois de Novembre est maintenant connu sous le nom Movember qui a été proclamée par la Société de Cancer du Prostate au Canada. N'oubliez pas, le 30 Novembre I.M.Fly sera co-commanditaires d'une événement à Club Rouge, venez passer une soirée de plaisir pour une bonne cause et courrez la chance de gagner des prix I.M.Fly. Contacter Rodney Bricc Skerritt pour des billets.
I.M.Fly along with fellow Movember [ROCK THAT MOUSTACHE] member Peter Raimondo have joined forces in the fight against prostate cancer. Since the 1st of November, Peter has been growing his mustaches to raise funds to create more attention to this horrible disease that affects so many men worldwide. Click on the link below to make a donation to this worthy cause. The month of November is now known as Movember as proclaimed by the Canadian Prostate Cancer Society. Don't forger that on Tuesday, the 30th of November I.M.Fly will be co-sponsoring a fundraiser at Rouge night club along with Movember Team Five One Four. To purchase tickets please contact Kamil Thompson-Hutchinson.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Movember Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
Mardi le 30 novembre, 2010, I.M. Fly sera le sponsor officiel de Movember [ROCK THAT MOUSTACHE] l’équipe 514 Movember Conscience de Cancer de Prostate au club Rouge situé au 7 Prince Arhtur. Cet événement tiendra DJ Ake avec DJ New Money et DJ Funk. Des prix seront émis pour la meilleure moustache. Pour des billets ou pour plus d’information, SVP contactez Peter Anthony Raimondo au 514-887-5265 et Jake Sutherland 514-824-9221.
On Tuesday, November 31st, I.M.Fly will be an official sponsor of Movember [ROCK THAT MOUSTACHE] Prostate Cancer Awarenss fundraiser at Rouge Nightclub located at 7 Prince Arthur. This event with have DJ Ake spining alongside DJ New Money and DJ Funk. Prizes will be given to those with the best moustache, for tickets and more info please contact Peter Anthony Raimondo at 514-887-5265 et Jake Sutherland 514-824-9221.
Mardi le 30 novembre, 2010, I.M. Fly sera le sponsor officiel de Movember [ROCK THAT MOUSTACHE] l’équipe 514 Movember Conscience de Cancer de Prostate au club Rouge situé au 7 Prince Arhtur. Cet événement tiendra DJ Ake avec DJ New Money et DJ Funk. Des prix seront émis pour la meilleure moustache. Pour des billets ou pour plus d’information, SVP contactez Peter Anthony Raimondo au 514-887-5265 et Jake Sutherland 514-824-9221.
On Tuesday, November 31st, I.M.Fly will be an official sponsor of Movember [ROCK THAT MOUSTACHE] Prostate Cancer Awarenss fundraiser at Rouge Nightclub located at 7 Prince Arthur. This event with have DJ Ake spining alongside DJ New Money and DJ Funk. Prizes will be given to those with the best moustache, for tickets and more info please contact Peter Anthony Raimondo at 514-887-5265 et Jake Sutherland 514-824-9221.
Friday, November 5, 2010
CASCO DecaDance
I.M.Fly clothing alongside Dom Rebel, French Connection and Style Echange will be official suppliers of the Casco DecaDance fashion show taking place the 12th of November at Telus Theater. The goal of the evening is to raise $30,000 for the Montreal Children Hospital. Come join the I.M.Fly family, tickets are $20,00 which inlcudes entrance to the event plus the after party being held at club La Mouche.
Les vêtements I.M. Fly apparaitont aux cotés d'autres marques tels que Dom Rebel, French Connection et Style Exchange dans le défilé de mode annuel CASCO DecaDance qui aura lieu le 12 Novembre au Théatre Télus. Le but de la soirée est d'amasser $30 000 pour l'Hôpital de Montréal pour enfants. Venez joindre la famille I.M.Fly, les billets sont $20,00 et comprennent une entrée gratuite au after party au club La Mouche.
For more details please click herePour plus d'informations s'il vous plaît cliquez ici
Les vêtements I.M. Fly apparaitont aux cotés d'autres marques tels que Dom Rebel, French Connection et Style Exchange dans le défilé de mode annuel CASCO DecaDance qui aura lieu le 12 Novembre au Théatre Télus. Le but de la soirée est d'amasser $30 000 pour l'Hôpital de Montréal pour enfants. Venez joindre la famille I.M.Fly, les billets sont $20,00 et comprennent une entrée gratuite au after party au club La Mouche.
For more details please click here
Pour plus d'informations s'il vous plaît cliquez iciSunday, October 24, 2010
Artist of the Month: Megan Akiko Del Rosso
Question 1.How did your passion for painting and drawing come about?
I have been in love with drawing ever since I discovered how to hold a pencil and make a mark. My love for painting had developed while I was in high school.
Question 2 Finish this sentence "Art, specifically drawing means ______ to me?"
Everything
Question 3 Who are some of your artistic influences?
There are so many artists that inspire me... Audrey Kawasaki, Steven Assael, Heather Horton, Sylvia Ji, Loretta Lux, David Stoupakis, Akif Hakan Celebi, Rick Leong, Diane Arbus...I could truly go on forever!
Question 4 What tips do you have to other artists to stay creative when producing their works? Keep an open mind and try new things. Visit museums and check out other artists as much as possible because there is so much inspiration out there!
Question 5 Do you feel Montreal as a whole supports its artists?
Most definitely! I feel that Montreal is highly conducive to the arts, creativity, and personal expression. There are plenty of festivals, museums, galleries, and events that promote the arts here.
Question 6 We were told that you are very personal attachment to your drawings and paintings, what convinced you to recently start releasing some of your work to the public?
What I do is very personal to me. I never really created anything with the intention of showing/selling but I have recently become open to the idea.
Question 7 What was your sense of direction when designing the I.M.Fly limited edition breast cancer t-shirt?
I wanted to create something that incorporated the emblematic breast cancer awareness ribbon, but I also wanted to give this extremely important cause a face. There are so many people affected by breast cancer and who are fighting for a cure. I thought that it was important to depict an individual who has been touched by it and who is actively working on bringing awareness to people in their everyday life.
Question 8 Where do you see your artistic path guiding you in the next 5 to 10 years?
Well there is one thing that I know for sure...painting and drawing is my passion. Where I will go with it, I’m not quite sure yet. I am considering pursuing a Masters in Art Therapy as I am absolutely enthralled with the idea of helping people through art. I really like the idea of donating work for a good cause; this is something that is currently in the works. I would also be open to showing in a gallery one day if I am fortunate enough to have the opportunity to do so.
Question 9 Where can fans of your art get in touch with you for personal projects or purchases some of your works?
I am currently working on getting a website up, but for the time being I have a facebook group (Megan Akiko Painting, Drawing, & Photography). If anyone wants to get in touch with me all of my contact information is on there.
Question 10 What is your definition of FLY?
Being committed to what you believe in and wholeheartedly pursuing what makes you happy in life.
Facebook Group: Megan Akiko Painting, Drawing & Photography
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Jimmy Baptiste: Sushi & Wine
Click here for more information on the event.
Below is the I.M.Fly Born To Be Queen shirt drawn by Jimmy which will be available for sale that evening.
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Below is the I.M.Fly Born To Be Queen shirt drawn by Jimmy which will be available for sale that evening.
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Thursday, September 16, 2010
Friday, September 10, 2010
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Artist of the Month: DJ Paolo Rocco
DJ Paolo Rocco has been creating a buzz in the city of Montreal the last couple years, due to his blend of smooth and elegant House with a spice of R&B. He finds himself as one of the most requested DJs in a city known for its club and party scenes. I.M.Fly had the chance to visit DJ Paolo Rocco during one of his sets this past weekend. We are proud to introduce to our I.M.Fly community this month "I.M.Fly Artist of the Month", DJ Paolo Rocco.
Question 1: When and why did you start Djing?
My father used to put dance cassettes for the car together as far back as I can remember. When we used to take a drive and he used to play these mixes, or when I would hear the club mix on the radio, I just thought I would be good at it. I always enjoyed music but I never realized I was in love with it. When I was around 16 years old I spent all my money made from working at Uniprix on DJ equipment with the desire to have my own business. Through the ups and downs my relationship with music became stronger then my ambition to become successful. Achieving success was not enough; achieving success by doing what I had a profound passion for is what my goal became.
Question 2: In five words how would you explain your style of Djing?
My niche as a DJ is House music. Deep, Techy, funky, clubby, soulful, kinda sorta are words that probably comes close to summing up my style of House music. But I hate categorizing and would insist on someone listening to me live a few times and them deciding what best describes me. If I hear a track and it triggers an emotion and I could listen to the same song on repeat, there is a good chance you will hear it in one of my sets. As for a style of mixing I like to make the songs I play my own. I'm not just going to blend one song to the other. I'll play with effects and do various tricks with the tools I have and really just enjoy myself by trying different things when it comes to the technical aspect. I try my best to be a show. If people say "How the f*ck did he do that", or "this guy is crazy", I delivered what I wanted. That and someone dancing all night is the biggest compliments I could ever get and it's truly humbling.
Question 3: Who are your biggest influences?
I have so many...I know I am going to leave some out but here goes, in no particular order Dennis Ferrer, DJ Gregory, Kerri Chandler, Louie Vega (MAW), Quentin Harris, Daft Punk, Axwell, Bob Sinclair, Basement Jaxx, Pharrell/Neptunes, Jamiroquai, Ryan Leslie, Michael Jackson, Darkchild, Jazzy Jeff, Julien Jabre, Donald Lauture, Pat Boogie, Will Smith, Jamie Foxx, and of course family, friends, fans of music, God and life itself.
Question 4: What is your definition of success?
If you have succeeded in achieving your personal state of happiness and then shared it with the world. For me that's building a life of love and financial freedom with family, friends and positive people; and by building this, by doing something you truly love and have a passion for. That alone is not enough. You have too share every step of the way with others to help them achieve what makes them happy, never forget where you’re from, and give back to the world that helped you.
Question 5: How do you feel about the present state of Djing?
The art is being lost. Not because computers make it easy to get by or because there is a lack of talent in this world; but because of saturation. People are not always exposed to a true DJ that does it out of passion.
Question 6: If there was one artistic talent you which you had other then Djing, what would it be?
Play instruments. Being a disk jockey and a musician are two very different things. Just because you’re good at one doesn't mean you’re good at both. In fact rarely does that happen. I produce my own music as well as spin, and I know my way around the keys, but one day I will learn how to play classical piano.
Question 7: What is your favorite part about Montreal?
Definitely the people. I love how there are so many cultures in one city. It has taught me so much and opened up my mind.
Question 8: When you are not Djing or producing, you are doing ______?
Sleep? Kidding, I am very thankful to have amazing friends and family to keep me busy and grounded. There is nothing I enjoy more than good company, whether it's out with friends, lunch with family, playing soccer with team mates, or simply a phone conversation with someone you can talk too.
Question 9: Tell us about your current projects and where we can get the full DJ Paolo Rocco experience?
Right now I am concentrating more on producing my own music and getting it out to the world. I would love to have a fan base for my original material in hopes that I will get booked as a DJ for it. I am striving for the day I get booked in a different country where everyone knows what I am about before I even start my set. You can catch some of my tracks and remixes on youtube or soundcloud. I have many more tracks I am keeping to myself and some remix projects for various labels that should be coming out in the near future. As for Djing wise, the best night to catch me when I spin my monthly event at the Wunderbar (W Hotel) on top of the many other guest spots that fill me up with an average of 3 gigs a week. Facebook is probably the best way to keep up to date with what I'm working on
Question 10: What is your definition of FLY?
Ones confident state of mind. We are what we believe ourselves to be, and we become who we think we are. If your state of mind is confident, you will give off positive vibes and the universe will respond back in a positive way. Therefore making you fly.
Official Myspace: www.myspace.com/paolorocco
Official SoundCloud: www.soundcloud.com/paolorocco
Official Facebook: www.facebook.com/djpaolorocco
You Owe Me (Paolo Rocco Remix)-Nas-TEASER by Paolo Rocco
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
We are more than a company, we are a community of artists and art lovers!
IMFly.ca
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Artist of the Month: Sonia-Soul
This month I.M.Fly was honored to sit down with Montréal own "Lady of Soul" miss Sonia-Soul. Her popularity throughout the underground urban music community has grown immensly over recent years. This summer will be a very busy one for Sonia-Soul and her band rightfully entitled "The Good Vibes". They will be performing this June 10th at Balattou, it will be a show that I.M.Fly highly recommends you attend. She has also joined fellow label-mate and president, Johnathan Emile, at Mind, Peace, Love records and is looking forward to releasing a full-length album in the near future. We, at I.M.Fly have had the chance to work with Sonia-Soul in the past and look forward to continuing doing so in the future.
Congratulations to Sonia-Soul for being I.M.Fly artist of the month for June 2010!
Question 1: How can listeners best describe your style of music?
Hmmm…Most people describe my style as one that is similar to Sade Adu’s. I think it’s a huge compliment but I find myself intimidated by that statement. She is such a huge inspiration to me. I have so much I need to live and experience before I can feel at ease with that sort of comparison. I’ve heard others say I sound like a mix of Aaliyah and Amel Larrieux or that I have an Incognito or Bass is Base feel to my music. All very flattering but I’d like it for people to listen and really feel ME. I’m often asked “What does your music sound like?” ; My answer is always the same “Me”...as it should.
Question 2: What are you biggest musical influences?
(Laughs) Believe it or not, I grew up listening to country music!!! My taste was -and still is- for Soul, Funk, R&B, Reggae, African and Jazz music but, I do enjoy some country once in a while. I have so many influences that it would be hard for me to name them all. Sade is my muse. Etta James, Anita Baker, Marvin Gaye, Bob Marley, Michael Jackson and many more are frequent stimulus since I was a youth…I make sure I always keep my ears open for new and refreshing insights of inspiration, although it’s rare to find nowadays. Everything on the radio sounds the same. It is one big bubble gum expression given by all artists heard on the air waves…well at least most of them. I do not listen to the radio anymore. I only search out underground talent because it seems it is more genuine with its message and emotional states. Three of my most favourite at the present moment are as follows: Ebrahim from British Columbia, Canada; Selah Sue from Louvain, Belgium; Kultchaz from Montreal, Canada.
Question 3: When did you know you wanted to be a full-time singer?
Never did! (Laughs) See, the thing is that I love writing songs more than I like singing. Knowing how hard the music industry can be, I try not to have expectations. I know I will succeed but it will be in my own time. I don’t agree with the stress and pressure the music business puts on artists today. Music is not what it used to be and many sell out to make more money which is also fine if that’s what they are after. I don’t know what the future holds for me but truthfully speaking, I hope I will never lose myself in the machine that I am witnessing changing people. If I can get paid to do what I love (music) and all the while stay true to who I am, I will definitely say yes. To be famous or rich is not why I got into music to begin with. Music is an art that we all know how to recognize. It doesn’t take a genius or a certain “parcours” in Life to be able to appreciate it. Music is like breathing…we need it in order to survive.
Singing is only one aspect of music for me. I practice Music everyday…no matter what form it manifests itself as, I take it in and grow from it. It’s a way of Life. No need for me to categorize it as “full time” or “part time”… it’s an undeniable part of me.
Question 4: What are the highest and lowest points of your career so far?
I think my lowest point was when I used to be in a reggae band a few years ago. It was nice for a while and it was a great experience but to be honest with you, when I witnessed the way some musicians and vocalists in the band were being treated, it just broke my heart. I couldn’t believe it and it really made me want to stop doing music…and I almost did. I quit for two years…it killed a part of me. I had to get over it and affirm myself as solo artist, gain confidence and see that a band didn’t have to be run under negative, pretentious or egotistical leadership. It taught me a great deal. As I gained more presence in Montreal’s underground music community, I started setting goals for myself that I knew I would achieve, but truthfully, never thought they would materialize so fast. (Laughs) I set the goal to creating my own band and within six months, “The Good Vibes” were born. Within the next 5 months, we worked on a show we put together which would lead to be our first official show as a musical family and the result was a sweet surprise to all of us. The venue was full. People were everywhere! That has got to be one of my greatest accomplishments so far as an independent artist and woman. I had the dream, set the goal and made it happen for myself. I didn’t wait on anyone to make it reality for me and that’s what I’m proudest of.
Question 5: Where do you see your carreer in 5 and 10 years?
I actually see myself as a Wife and Mother of at least, 2 or 3 youths. Being a Mother is my number one dream in this realm. I was born a woman for that reason…no? (Laughs) On the music front, I would like to have my own lil’ resto/lounge where I would be able to offer the opportunity, to new and emerging artists, to perform and achieve their dreams and goals in the field. I would love to have the space available for people to express themselves musically and also have it for myself to keep my passion going. I plan on having this resto/lounge, God willing, in a hot country where I can just be myself and not have to worry about Babylonian rules on my way of Life. I just want to be me…Royally Simple. (Laughs)
Question 6: How do you feel about the current state of Montreal/Canadian music?
Good. I feel pretty good. Canada has so much talent, it’s almost become ridiculous. (Laughs) It’s like the rest of the world is finally starting to pay attention at one of our biggest natural resources: TALENT. (Laughs) You know what I mean? We have so many artists that are putting Canada on the map it feels good to know that there are still people out there, in the hype of “the big wheel ride”, that are keeping it real. K’Naan is one that comes to mind on that matter. The fact that he only recently started to get genuine artistic recognition from Canadians is, in my opinion, a lil’ behind schedule compared how the rest of the world sees him. Maybe that’s what he was going for…I don’t know. That’s just my opinion. (Laughs) On the Montreal side of things, we’ve got so many gifted artists here, it can be overwhelming to choose from on a night you want to go out and have a good time! If you don’t know, you better ask somebody! (Laughs) One of the best examples I can think of is Montreal’s own Kalmunity, which has made a huge impact on our community and quite a name for themselves. I’m so surprised when I meet people that have never heard of them…it’s hard for me to believe. It’s kind of like when you say: “You know Sade?” and the person says “Nope”…then all you have to do is start singing “Smooooooooooooooth Operatooooooor” and folks are like: “Oh yeah yeah! I know Sade! Duh!” (Laughs). In my eyes, it comes down to the same thing for Kalmunity except the key word here would be Jahsun instead of Smooth Operator. (Laughs) Jokes aside though, Montreal has some of the most talented people I have ever met and I feel blessed and gifted to be living in this city on top of being able to attend so many various shows on a regular. It’s a beautiful thing! I really encourage people to look into the hidden treasures Montreal harbours and many other cities covet…we are rich and we don’t even know it…or do we? (Laughs)
Question 7: Love is?
The Essence of Life.
Question 8: If you had to choose 3 artists that you would collaborate with, whom would they be?
My Dad, Bob Marley, Sade.
Question 9: The hardest decision you've ever had to make was...?
…Following my Heart. It sounds like it’s not much, but sometimes following your Heart means that you may have to hurt people you love in the process of making YOU happen. I learned it the hard way but I regret nothing of what I chose for myself. Whatever people say, and as cliché as it sounds, always go for what you believe and never let go of that dream or goal, no matter how hard it can be to hold on to at times . It doesn’t matter how long it takes to get there, what matters is that you do.
The only competition I have is with my Self… I never want to feel satisfied.
Question 10: What is your definition of FLY?
A really annoying insect! (Laughs) All jokes aside though…
To me, it means being conscious of Self without attention to Ego.
The sky is NOT the limit.
Official Myspace: www.myspace.com/soniasoul
Official Facebook group: Sonia-Soul
Labels:
Ballatou,
Johnathan Emile,
Mind Peace Love,
Sonia-Soul,
The Good Vibes
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