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Have you ever wanted to find out what theses talented indie artist are up to? Well here is your chance. Below we have the inside exclusive with Denicia Hamilton.
• What first got you into music?
Music is big part of my family. I grew up singing in the church choir. My great-grandfather was in popular local gospel quartet. My mom was the choir’s musician and my Dad was the lead deacon. They always encouraged me to sing solos and perform around the community.
As I became older, I began to take the craft more seriously. Voice lessons, local talent showcases and competitions. After graduating, I moved to Atlanta to find more opportunities in the industry.
• What made you come up with your stage
name?
My stage name is my government name .
• Most craziest moment after a show?
I wouldn’t call this a “crazy” moment but it definitely was emotional!
After my thirty minute performance set at a music festival, a sweet lady approached me with tears running down her face. She was overwhelmed with my performance. It was absolutely touching!
• Whats your favorite fashion trend to wear ?
I don’t really have a favorite fashion trend, per say. But I do love black clothes and high slit skirts!
• What was life like growing up?
I had a great childhood. My family was like a small village. My parents were loving (and funny). I have two sisters; I’m the middle! I was the quiet one. You could easily find me locked up in my room with a book or listening my to favorite radio that I’d won by writing the best essay at a fair. Yea, I was little nerdy. My sisters were and still are very protective over me!
• Tell us one of your best memories with music
and without music?
One of my best memories with music was performing my first “big girl” set…is what I call it. I sung for forty-five minutes straight at an outdoor festival. It was so fun!
A cool memory of mine without music was during college; I earned a lead role in a play called “Knock Me a Kiss”. I didn’t realize until the end of the play while we were taking our bow; my entire family ( and extended) and now fiancé had shown up to surprise me! I cried like a baby!
• Who inspired you to make music?
My family. Although I was passionate about music, they always encouraged me to take it to the next level.
• How would you describe the music that you
typically create?
Unique.
• What is your creative process like?
Listening to the beat/ instrumental. Is it upbeat? Sad? Does it make me feel like dancing? Once I get a vibe, I’ll create a melody and add lyrics!
• Who would you most like to collaborate with?
If you could go open a show for any artist who
would it be?
H.E.R. , Jazmine Sullivan, Drake, Beyoncé and more!
• What is one message you would give to your
fans?
Always do what makes you feel happy. As long as it’s safe and healthy, do it!
Do you sing in the shower? What songs?
• Of course! The list goes on. I’m singing songs from “Love on Top” to “Heart Break Melody”!
• What would you be doing right now, if it wasn't
for your music career?
I would work full time for my hair company, TRU Strands.
• Where have you performed? What are your
favorite and least favorite venues? Do you
have any upcoming shows?
Honestly, I couldn’t name every single venue but I’ve performed at so many bars/lounges/ showcases in Atlanta. My top three favorite were Marietta Grassroots Festival , Club Traffik and Taste of Soul Festival. Out of respect, I’m not going to single them out, but those venues where I didn’t perform until 11:30 PM or later with poor communication …I hated it!
• What is your favorite song to perform?
I love performing Lifeline. It’s the reason for the title of the project!
• Which famous musicians do you admire?
Mariah Carey, Chaka Khan, Tamia, Stevie Wonder and En Vogue.
• What is the most trouble you've ever gotten
into?
Eh…I wasn’t really a trouble maker. My Dad taught us how to defend ourselves… I’d got into one fight during middle school. I won. So, there’s that.
• What is the best advice you've been given?
The best advice that was given to me is to always be yourself. Your music is an extension of yourself.
• If you could change anything about the
industry, what would it be?/ How do you feel the Internet has impacted the
music business?
I think it’s crazy that when I’ve pitched my music a couple of times , the first thing that’s asked is “What does her following/numbers look like”? I understand the music business is constantly changing and labels tend to be more attracted to clients with a large following, so investments are guaranteed to be paid back. But I truly believe, it’s popularity over talent nowadays. As an upcoming artist, I HAVE to constantly engage and create a social media presence. They kind of expect you to have an audience already. This can be a little challenging to find sources that’s genuinely interested in your growth as an artist. I wish popularity wasn’t a major determining factor in this industry. But it is what it is. Rock out with the ones who love your music!
• What's next for you?
We’re currently planning a visual for “Heartbreak Melody”! There’s going to be some twists and turns so I’m amped about it ! “Lifeline” will be released on 12.14.21 so be on the look out! In the meantime, stream “Heartbreak Melody”!
If you'd like to follow Denicia Hamilton's career be sure to check out her new music or follow her on social media.
Social Media:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deniciahamilton/
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