Thembi interview X Livincool.com

Posted on 12.10.09 to music, news, photography by Emanuele DAngelo

Thembi is a music artist from London that I have met through the Street Talk guys. She is a nice and very cool girl. She also a photographer. Continue to read the article for her small interview with LivinCool.com.

Why did you choose the name Thembi?

Thembi is short for my middle name which is Sithembekile. Its what my parents call me and I guess, I feel it represents me more than my christian name.

What are your songs about?

My songs are about experiences I’ve had and some I’d like to have. Some are about things I’ve heard about and some are straight from my imagination.

What is your music background?

I’ve always been moved by music. When I was a baby I used to dance in my push-chair when I went past a shop playing music. I sang in school plays from the age of 9 and any other musical competitions at school. Over the years I’ve had lessons in various instruments, these being recorder, clarinet, violin, piano and drums and I’m currently teaching myself the guitar…though it’s not going very well lol. My parents have always sung around the house, so I guess when you’re brought up in a house like that, you’re bound to love music!

Who are your musical influences?

My influences range over all the genres that I listen to, but the main ones are as follows. I love the instrumentals in Chic, they always inspire me to be creative. I also fell in love with hip hop, and that definitely shows in the music with the instrumentals I use. Artists in this genre that I’ve been influenced by are Pete Rock, A Tribe Called Quest and Slick RIck with his storytelling approach and amazing adlibs. Singing wise, I shall forever be influenced by Nina Simone and Miriam Makeba!

Who is your favourite Soul artist?

Soul artist? Hmm, I’d say Curtis Mayfield. I get lost in his albums, the lyrics and the music, everytime I play them!

If you would have the opportunity to work with all the producers you want, who you will work with?

I’d love to work with Pete Rock, Nile Rogers and Bernard Edwards, Kev Brown. It would have been an honor to work with J-Dilla also.

Do you have a new album coming? Which are your future projects?

I’m working on a few projects at the moment which include my debut album and a mixtape. The mixtape will by my introduction to the world.

Who is the best dressed musician nowadays?

In my opinion, I’ve always loved how Erykah Badu dresses…she goes her own way, and I like that!

How do you describe your music to people?

Hip hop, Jazz and Neo-Soul, but I have a feeling everyone thinks I’m R&B…its quicker to say right? Hehe

What do you like of London?

London was the first city I was independent in. For that alone I love it. I love the history, the quirks, even the pretentiousness. It’s a wonderfully creative city that doesn’t like to follow anyone else. Out of all the places I’ve lived,
so far its my favourite.