Below, R&B singer Phoenix Melody gets personal about her music career, her biggest influences, and what her fans can expect from her next live show.
Cliché: When did you realize that you wanted to be an artist?
Phoenix Melody: I grew up in a musical family, so I’ve been singing since I could remember. When I was asked what I wanted to be as a kid, I would write down “artist” and in parenthesis “singer” for the people who thought artistry was only in the form of painting.
How would you describe your music?
My music is mostly pop/R&B with an influence of soul and rock.
Is the music scene different in Australia than in the U.S.?
Australian music is heavily influenced by the U.S. mainstream music channels, be it radio or television. They stream the latest music from the States all the time. I think Australian artists are doing their best to be innovative and keep up with artists from the States.
How does your personal life influence your music?
My personal life influences my music in every way. I mean, I write about what I’m going through, what I’ve overcome, what I long for, and what I would change.
Would you compare yourself to anyone in the industry now?
I don’t like to compare myself to other artists because I like to embrace my individuality as much as possible while admiring established artists doing their thing. I’ve been compared to artists such as Rihanna and Beyoncé, but to me they are the ultimate. They’re legends. It’s a total compliment—I love them—but that’s a ton of pressure.
Who do you listen to?
I listen to everyone. I listen to underground music, mainstream artists, old school. There’s really nothing that I’m not interested in listening to at least once!
Do you get nervous sometimes before performing?
Occasionally I get nervous, but it’s usually an adrenaline rush rather than nerves these days!
Do you remember the first song you performed?
My first solo performance was in year two and I performed Avril Lavigne’s “Complicated” and “Sk8er Boi.”
What can your fans expect from a live show from you?
My fans can expect a lot of energy and vulnerability. It is an intimate performance; I am speaking to each and every one of you.
What do you want them to take away from your music?
I want my fans to relate to my music, to walk away feeling emotions embracing them. I pour my heart and soul in my lyrics so my fans know they aren’t alone, and they can feel good through the bull and ride the wave of life with a smile on their face.
Who would you like to collaborate with someday?
I would like to collaborate with Chris Brown, Justin Bieber, and Drake. I think that would be dope!
Are they any songs you’d love to cover in the future?
“Speechless” by Michael Jackson. I’m probably putting a lot of pressure on myself by saying that, but I love me some MJ and that’s one of my faves.
Who or what inspires you?
The people who inspire me the most are my family. The universe also inspires me, as well as the appreciation for all circumstances, and people who overcome difficulties elegantly.
What’s something that your family or friends would say about you?
They would probably say that I’m crazy, way too loud, and that I’m annoying. They’d say I’m real and what you see is what you get. I love. I live for love.
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Phoenix Melody Interview: Photographer: Quavondo, Wardrobe Stylist: Amber Wyche, Clothing sponsored by: Drogue Clothing
