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MG Indie Report
Barbara Sheree... Mind, Body & Soul
November 2009
By: Latisha Simmons, HMGIC latisha@mahoganygirl.com

The search for good R&B and soul music can lead many down a disappointing road... Today words like artists developement and originality are a thing of the past. So, when a voice and talent like Barbara Sheree crosses your path you can't help but take notice. She started singing at the early age of seven and never stopped working toward her dream. Barbara Sheree is diverse in her talents, singing and songwriting. All to deliver REAL music to her fans. From Patti Labelle, Keith Sweat to Al B. Sure Barbara Sheree has gained repect and paid her dues as an opening act and back up singer. But there is so much more on her path to success...

MahoganyGirl: What came first for you.. Singing or songwriting?
Barbara Sheree: I would have to say singing came first. I can remember singing in church at like age 7... And even before that imitating Diana Ross at home with my hair flying out singing "Love Hangover". So singing came first but writing followed shortly after.

MG: I love Diana Ross.. Her music is timeless. Do you remember the first song you wrote and what it was about?
BS: It was a song I wrote in high school...called "Whatever you want" It was about relationships. I can still remember the hook to it...but not the verses.

MG: Your songs are soulful and inspirational is that important for you as an artist?
BS: Yes, that is the most important thing. Everything that I write or perform I want it to connect and inspire people in some way. I try to give a part of me in every song...if I don't, Im cheating the music. Music is a gift that was given to all of us to inspire us and touch us. So, that to me is the most important thing about being a singer/songwriter.

MG: You were personally picked for a project by Patti Labelle.. How did that make you feel?
BS: Auditioning for and being picked by a person you admire so much is an unbelievable feeling. That moment is something I will never forget. And if I ever stop and try to doubt myself as we all do... I step back and remember that the BEST of the BEST said I was good enough.

MG: How was it meeting Patti for the first time?
BS: More nerve wrecking than you can imagine. I was so nervous I could barely say my name. But , she was so sweet and down to earth. But, I really couldn't believe I was there with her. I was totally star struck...(Laughs) And Im not usually like that.

MG: Can you talk about performing at Carnegie Hall?
BS: Wow... Being contracted by Carnegie Hall and performing with Jessey Norman was an amazing experience. I was so blessed to be a part of the production. And it just showed me again that anything is possible and the sky is truly the limit.

MG: What can people expect from your latest project?
BS: The new project I would have to say is the best representation of me thus far. It is deeply personal and just talks about my growth as a woman. I believe most everyone will be able to connect and relate to the music. As Im getting a little older Im not afraid to expose myself more in the music and show the mistakes Ive made in life as well as how much Ive grown.

MG: Do you want to stay indie or go the major label route. Why or why not?
BS: Right now Indie is the way for me. But, I would never say that I wouldn't entertain a major deal if I can continue to make music that represents me and gives my audience something real.

MG: At the end of the day what do you hope people will take from your music?
BS: I hope that they get that love is the most important thing in life. Not just loving you man or woman, but loving yourself. I hope that they are inspired to live life without limitations because anything is possible.


Barbara Sheree Online @:
ReverbNation.com
CDBaby.com
Facebook.com


- [ LS ] -