Meet Fashionista and Music Mastermind Imah: Interview
With there being less of a gap between fans and artists, Imah is wasting no time using social media to connect with her audience. As a proud Senegalese She knows she has the potential to reach the entire world and she is up to the task. Imah’s voice is like smooth butter and can be recognized anywhere. She effortlessly blends R&B, afrobeat, pop, and neo-soul with a touch of african essence. Imah knows that patience and being humble is to key her success, slow and steady wins the race and she is here to win.
What first got you into music?
I started freestyling as a kid but didn't think anything of it until my mom asked who's song is that, and she was also impressed by my vocals. That's when I took the courage to perform at school plays and talent shows.
What is the best advice you’ve been given?
To love myself and never compare myself to others
If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?
Colourism for sure, I'm not saying it's terrible but there work to be done
Who inspired you to make music?
Many artists in the 90s like Aaliyah, Mary J Blige, Brandy, Destiny's Child. But when I was in High School, I listened to Alicia Keys, Usher, Rihanna, Cassie, Ashanti. But things shifted a lot when I got older and started to listen to more African and Caribbean artists.
What is your creative process like?
I like to hear a beat, if I vibe with it I will freestyle to it. The record multiple takes of me freestyling. Dissecting my favourite line then developing a song around that and writing the rest of the track.
Who would you most like to collaborate with?
Oh wow! so many artists, like Burna Boy, Tayc, Aya Nakaruma, Akon, Wally, Wale, Teni, Rema, MHD, VanJess, Sha Sha, Voice, Like I told you many can't list them all lol.
If you could go open a show for any artist who would it be?
It would be the same as the previous question, to be honest. Like if I would love to open for Aya Nakaruma.
Do you sing in the shower? What songs?
Absolutely, to be frank I sing everywhere lol. It's mostly freestyles
What would you be doing right now, if it wasn’t for your music career?
I would be a fashion designer, which I already kinda do for myself. And for sure in the beauty industry.
Where have you performed?
I performed at Afrofest, at Baby G for Afrowave. at One Loft, Round Venue for Afro Haus, at The Shop for Chabata. I based my experience on the crowd so I can't really say if I have the least favorite venue. But I must say my performance at Cherry Beach for Afro Haus was something so different and magical.
Do you have any upcoming shows?
I do but working out details but will share soon. I do have my #ClosetFreestyleFriday show I have every Friday on my IG Live.
Which famous musicians do you admire?
Akon and Rihanna because despite all the success they have, they are also very involved in making the world a little bit better.
What’s next for you?
Working on more songs for my EP, continuing with my show on Fridays. Staying safe and healthy.
