“I really enjoy being able to connect with my audience. It is not only a performance, it’s an EXPERIENCE...”
It all started when…
SOULDEGA: How did your journey with music begin?
TIM: My journey in music started in the church at the age of 4 years old onwards. Being in that environment, living a cultured life, traveling and being around different people opened me up to so many different genres of music. My whole life experiences contributed to the singer I am today.
SOULDEGA: Do you remember your first ever live vocal performance?
TIM: Yesss, I remember it like it was yesterday. I had the opportunity to perform a solo at church for the Sunday school awards. I was 6 years old, I didn’t know I could really sing and had a love for it until after that performance, it was special.
SOULDEGA: You performed often for venues such as Brooklyn Tea and SOB’s, what do you enjoy most about being on stage?
TIM: Yes, amazing venues. I really enjoy being able to connect with my audience. It is not only a performance, it’s an EXPERIENCE, being able to express myself musically in a live, raw and unedited way. A beautiful experience! Live music really brings people together!
SOULDEGA: In what ways do you plan to continue to share your vocal talents during this uncertain social climate?
TIM: I haven’t really been doing much of that, I’ve been writing music and exploring my gift. But when I do, I do a little song on Instagram live and being apart of showcases on other Instagram platforms. I really miss performing!
SOULDEGA: Aside from your music, we loved your IG live segment “The Melanin Lounge” where you engaged in a discussion with @keamzt on vulnerable topics. What sparked you to create this experience?
TIM: Wow, thank you! Before the quarantine life, I didn’t really go on Instagram live, so I thought why not go on there and check in with everyone by spreading light, laughter and positivity. While doing so, I had a live call with my friend @keamzt she’s a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist from the UK. We were literally on live for 5 hours, we spoke about so many vulnerable, thought provoking topics. It was healing for myself, the watchers and herself, very liberating. Almost like an online therapy session, lol. We had a conversation after the live and came up with the concept The Melanin Lounge: “UBUNTU” - I AM BECAUSE YOU ARE.
SOULDEGA: Also, how do you find this platform to be helpful in creating connections with others during this time?
TIM: I thought the Melanin Lounge was timely because in a time like this, we as humans cannot exist and function effectively in isolation. What better than having open conversations and being vulnerable as we explore ways in how you can become a better you. It’s an avenue to connect with ANYone in a non judge mental, safe space where you can be transparent and open. UBUNTU, an African proverb means “I am because you are”, it is our slogan which means we are all here for each other, no man is an island, each one teach one.
SOULDEGA: If you could serenade any musical legend (living or not) who would it be and why?
TIM: Omg! I have sooo many lol but right now, I’d have to say @indiaarie because I feel like she embodies substance, musicality, spirituality and depth. She has given so much to this world through her artistry and I’d like to give back by pouring back into her what she has taught me, and serenade her by paying a tribute or something.