Sometimes i just wonder what age do we/you start taking our kid/nephew/cousin to the studio or getting them a private music teacher, the time to get them interested in learning a musical instrument or some vocal lessons.
Yesterday whilst browsing the internet, i came across an article with willow smith, will smith's daughter getting to jayz's record label and she is just nine years old {PAUSE} Yes just 9 years old, anyways moving on, today i have with me the talented and beautiful carmen reece who also started playing the flute and the piano at age 7, did i mention she was already in music from the age of 5.
Enjoy the interview
Hey Carmen, welcome to YHP, how are you doing today?
Im great thanks.
Can you quickly give the YHP readers some brief background information about yourself?
I'm a 23 year old singer/songwriter from England/UK
You said you started playing the piano and flute at the age of 7/8, how did that happen? What was motivation behind learning those instruments? Was it parental or personal?
From the age of 5 at primary school i took a huge interest in music and that stayed with me through the rest of my childhood. My parents were always very encouraging but never pushy.
How many instruments do you play?
I play two instruments, the flute and piano.
Would you say having a family that is musically driven has helped in your development as an artist?
Definately, all of my family members grew up playing an instrument so it was a very natural path to follow, they have a great interest in music and have always supported me.
Who are your musical inspirations?
My biggest musical influences growing up would have to be the 'Divas'... Mariah Carey, Whitney Housten, Toni Braxton and Celine dion... i was a big fan of Boyz II Men also and later found Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson and Brandy.
How would you define your music? Would you class yourself as a soulful artist?
I would class my music and myself as a pop/RnB artist.... iv grown up listening to soulful music so id like to think that shows through my music.
When did it all become real for you, when did you realise that you are becoming more popular and people are starting to notice you?
I've been on a national radio tour this last year and its been amazing to see and hear the feedback that has come from people listening to the music on the radio.... its a dream! of course having the songs and performances uploaded on social network sites has really boosted the exposure and allowed for different audiences to experience my music.
So how does a girl from the UK find herself working with mark feist? How did you guys meet each other?
Mark and i met about 4 years ago, i was signed to a company back in London and they flew me out to work with some producers, Mark being one of them. We had a great couple of days then i went back to London.
Fast Forward 4 years, Mark was looking for some singers to demo his songs so he reached out to me, i was really excited about coming out to LA to work with him again as i had a few songs id written back home that i wanted to show him. The first day we worked together i played them to him and the rest is history.
So are you are currently signed to his record label REAL MF LTD right?
Yes thats correct.
Have you moved to the U.S now or you’re still in the UK?
No i've moved to the US. Been here over a year now.
What was the experience like in the brit school? How did that help your music career?
Brit school was one of the best experiences of my life so far. I am so grateful for that amazing experience it really paved the way for what was to come. I still have such fond memories.
Let’s talk about your forthcoming album – love in stereo, what was the motive behind it?
Love in Stereo is really a great pop/RnB album... it takes you through all sides of love - in Stereo form.. coming from all angles.
You recently released your 2nd single off the album called Raindrop, what has been the response so far for it?
There's been a really great response to Raindrop i think people like it because it not only makes you want to move but is moving at the same time.
Do you have any plans in touring anytime soon?
Of course, We're just finishing the album right now, Marks in the final stages of production with it, im sooooo excited for everyone to hear! so im sure once thats finsihed i will be on the road again touring.
What else do you like doing apart from singing and songwriting? What do you do for fun?
Now dont laugh (cause everyone else does)...!! but im a huge fan of playing badminton, i just love it, it really is a great game and a way for me to relax. I also have an unhealthy obsession with makeup. Love the stuff!
Do you feel the U.S gives you a better opportunity to showcase your talent better rather than doing it in the UK?
I love the UK so much its where im from... and i love the music that is made there, but working with Mark has brought me to the US and im not complaining! i love America and im so grateful for the support.
What opportunities do you think the U.S offer to music artist, or advantages it gives or do you think it doesn’t matter?
I think each to its own, for me i feel my music really sits well within the American market, i've grown up listening to so many american artists so maybe thats why... i dont know.
What would you say has been key to your success so far?
Keeping my friends and family very close by, im so lucky to have such a great support system, they really keep me level headed, and of course Mark and the Real MF team have been so focused and have continued to believe in me and give me this amazing opportunity.
What has been some of the most valuable lessons that you’ve learnt so far on your musical journey?
To never give up!! you just dont know whats around the corner.... stay true to yourself and keep believing.
What has been your most memorable moment so far?
My favourite moment so far was when we recorded the live performance footage for 'Right Here' - directed by the incredible Billy Woodruff. Every time i watch it back it gives me goosebumps and makes me so proud and excited for whats to come!
What advices would you give to upcoming singers/songwriters or instrumentalists out there looking to break into the music industry?
keep writing! its the best way of discovering yourself and who you are as an artist, it may not come straight away but perseverance is the key. Dont get knocked down pick yourself right up, noone else will do it for you....
Thanks Carmen, before you go, the million dollar question, when is the album coming out?
No set date just yet but real soon!!! i promise
Enjoy her latest cover of usher - DJ GOT US FALLIN IN LOVE AGAIN" FEAT. PITT BULL
Don't forget to Follow her on Twitter and Like her on Facebook
Why not take something also to check out her website
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