Radical Phoenixx
South Florida
23
Recording Artist / Entertainer
Background (Do you or your family originate from another country? If so, how has that influenced your work? and/or Where did you grow up and how does that influence your work?):
Both my parents are originally from Jamaica. I was born and raised in Bronx, NY and later moved to South Florida which was somewhat a culture shock. Therefore, my caribbean roots, my upbringing in New York with the combination of living in the south definitely influence the energy and vibe of my music. It’s not really region specific. It’s more about fusion and the individual listening relating to the diversity.
What inspired you to start?:
I’d have to say outside of singing along to popular music on the radio, watching big award show performances and music videos that incorporated dance really intrigued me. It inspired me so much, I would perform in my grandma’s kitchen because it had the most open space in the house, and I’d act like I was on stage or in my own music video.
How did you get started? (tell us a little about your journey):
I started my career with basic childhood activities. Church plays, modeling classes at the YMCA, chorus at school, etc. I would make up choreography and write songs to teach my cousins or friends in the neighborhood as well. When I moved to Florida I continued being in chorus but I later left and joined the step team at school and shortly after I started a dance team with friends. We would have talent and production shows then when I was 15 I started getting vocal lessons so I wanted to showcase my singing. Later on the dance team went on BET’s 106&Park and a man in Atlanta reached out to my mom interested in forming a girl group. He asked if two other girls he picked out and myself were interested. From there we were together for about 3 years. When we dismantled I returned to focusing on my solo career and continuing!
How long have you been doing this?:
Singing isn’t really something I consciously “started” doing, it was always a very natural progression, so I’ll just say I started taking it seriously as a career at 15 and started recording when I was 16. That makes it about 7 years and counting! From a performing standpoint, I’d always found a way to put on a show since I was a little girl. Whether acting, modeling, dancing, or singing. Even if it was just me in the living room. It was always a show on a stage in my mind.
Are there any artist that influence you and your work?:
Honestly, I think as an artist I’m inspired by pretty much everything I’m able to pick up with my senses. Both physically and spiritually. It would be so difficult to name just one influential artist in particular because I love so many. However, the energy of Miss Josephine Baker has certainly impacted me ever since I was in middle school. She is very untamed and comical, yet breathtakingly graceful. Lauryn Hill is another diverse artist that has influenced me with her existence beyond musical ability. I’m really a nerd with this stuff. I could go on for days.
What do you hope to accomplish with it?:
I hope to accomplish many different things in my career. Financial stability is definitely on the list because it offers a convenience that I’d like my family to experience. I also want to be able to present people I know are ambitious and capable with opportunities to reach their own goals and dreams. Giving to the less fortunate is something that pulls on my heart as well. I’d also like to leave a legacy of integrity. That is very important to me. Everything else is icing on the cake.
How do you hope to inspire black women and young girls?:
I hope to inspire all women, however I specifically want black women and young girls to be inspired the same way Brandy inspired me. She was everywhere. I had no doubt in my mind that I could have my own sitcom on tv, be on Disney channel playing Cinderella, or a be spokeswoman for Cover Girl cosmetics and be a singer! There really is no limit to our existence, beauty, and influence. Time and time again in history we are proven limitless, strong, and foundational. It doesn’t matter who doesn’t acknowledge it. As long as we know our power, no one can take it from us.
How do you stay motivated to move forward with your goals when life brings challenges?:
I’m not going to lie. It’s been very difficult for me to stay motivated on this journey at times. However, nothing worth obtaining comes easy. When I am faced with challenges it forces me to to refocus and appreciate the moment. I realize that if I didn’t feel challenged it would mean that I’m not growing. Growth motivates me.
Do you have any upcoming projects?: What can we expect from you next?:
I’m currently in the process of doing my first EP. As of right now I’ve been focused on getting it done. Once it drops I’ll be performing as much as possible!
What are you in pursuit of?:
(What inspires you? Why are you pursuing your dreams? What is your goal?)
I am in pursuit of fulfilling purpose. I’d also like to be an inspiration for others to also discover and pursue their own purpose, which I believe is directly connected to ones’ faith. So many people are merely existing rather than living out their divine purpose and destiny. Music and entertainment is my window, platform, and path to fulfilling the purpose for my life.
Many things inspire me daily, however witnessing passion inspires me the most. Fire ignites fire. When I see a flame in someone, I immediately become ignited once more for my own desires and dreams to manifest.
I’m pursuing my dreams because I’ve honestly asked myself what I could be other than an entertainer and I realized I could do many other things, but NOTHING else lights a fire in spirit the way performing does. None of the other “options” make my spirit leap. I’m pursuing my dreams because I am passionate about living them and making them reality. My dreams are leading me to a higher purpose. Fulfilling my destiny being true to myself, not compromising who I am is my ultimate goal.
Any words of wisdom you want to leave us with?:
Here are some words of wisdom that are helping me grow and get through life… ‘You need a valley to know what a mountain is.’
Where can people can find you online?:
People can find me on my website and social media.
www.RadicalPhoenixx.com or stay connected through my Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Soundcloud, Youtube, Snapchat : @radicalphoenixx or Radical Phoenixx
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