Most Beautiful: My interview with N'Dambi

I must admit that I was in complete awe when N’Dambi obliged me with this interview. My initial expectations were well exceeded. Upon first meeting you are graced with this extremely humble woman whose voice is paralleled only by her amazing demeanor. She one day hopes to develop a school in her hometown that will focus on the many aspects of the music industry. While in Memphis promoting her latest album, Pink Elephant, I got the opportunity to flex my interviewing chops as well as catch a glimpse into this rising star’s journey:

GJ: I must say that when I was asked to do an interview with you I had not really listened to your music and upon doing my research I was completely blown away. You are an incredible singer. You’re really talented and when I was listening to you I didn’t want to box you into a category or genre, but you’re like a soulful singer to me. How do you usually feel about people trying to categorize your music? How would you categorize your music?

N’Dambi: I stay away from genres because I listen to so much music and I’m influenced by so many things but I think the voice is soulful and I can’t help it. I think I’m a vessel and it’s given to me and it’s my gift to give back to people. So I just use music to translate it in any way it comes out. I don’t really use the genre, but I know that people identify better with a category. So if I had to pick one it would be R&B and it’s hard to pick one.

GJ: Also upon doing my research I saw that you started out doing backup vocals for Erykah Badu. Do you feel that’s what helped catapult your career?

N’Dambi: I will say this, it was very helpful to be a part of what she was doing but no matter had I done that or not, music is something I was put here to do. And I think that I will continue forward pressing within music either way. I do value that it was very important, magical, mystical, and all those things at the time being something fresh and new to people. I was glad to be a part of something so special.

GJ: Stax Records is a Memphis staple, the history, the culture, the revolution. How does it feel to be a part of the new revived label?

N'Dambi: I’m honored to be a part of it and I say that because Stax has created a legacy of music that is timeless and continues to live on beyond the actual physical label being present. I think it’s the soundtrack for a lot of people’s lives. They can tell you the history based on that music and so to be a part of something so special and important I feel honored. I am hoping that when I create music, I create music that is timeless and a legacy that we pride ourselves on.

GJ: Your latest album is titled Pink Elephant. What is the meaning behind the title?

N’Dambi: The title of the album represents encouraging others to embrace their destiny. To empower them to take hold and own their purpose and to not dumb down yourself for acceptance.

GJ: The question all your fans would like to know: Can we expect a tour soon?

N’Dambi: After the promotional stops, I’m hoping to do a floor show soon and bring the band out on the road with me. I enjoy the connection with my fans.

*Side Note- I would like extend a special thanks to Tonya for connecting this interview for me and to Renee for allowing me to complete my interview the next day when time ran short.