June 30, 2024 • 25 mins
Welcome to another exciting episode of The Smiley J Artist Zone, where we celebrate independent music creators! This week, Smiley J brings you an engaging conversation with the incredibly talented artist, STOUT who shares her inspiring journey captivating audiences worldwide with her unique blend of genres and electrifying energy. Don't miss this inspiring episode that celebrates the power of music, creativity, and resilience. Tune in, and help support independent artists, and keep the music alive!
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:00):
The Smiley J Artist Zone is a cool space dedicated to independent music creators,
conversation, music, information, laughter, and more.
And here's your host, Smiley J.
What's up, y'all? Again, I am your host, Smiley J.
Welcome, welcome, welcome. So glad you guys are hanging out with me.
Yes, welcome to this cool space that is dedicated to independent music creators.
(00:24):
Now, if this is your first time tuning in, I'm so glad that you're here.
All you got to do is come on back and let's do this again. Tell a friend and bring a friend.
Yes, you can listen to the show on your favorite music platform.
I'm in all of the major ones. Or you can listen on smileyjartisone.com.
But whatever you choose to listen, just hit that follow button.
(00:46):
Yes, and all shows are archived. So if you miss the show, no worries.
You can always go back and listen and play catch up. It's all good because,
you know, I know life be life. if any of y'all busy.
So, you know, I meet you where you are. Yes.
Now, in case you didn't know, there are like so many super talented music creators in the world.
(01:09):
So it's very difficult to quantify, but they're out there.
So to all of my artists out there, just know that there's an audience for every type of music genre.
All you have to do is just, you know, stay true to you, Stay true to your creative
vision, because there will always be a loyal following that love and appreciate
(01:29):
your music, just like today's guest.
Yes, she is true to her unique sound, and I love it. So you know what?
Let me just go ahead and introduce her to y'all, because I know y'all ready to hear from her.
This sister right here is from New Haven, Connecticut.
She is known to her fans as the Stout, yes, and she has been performing since
the age of three, singing, playing the drums, and just doing her thing.
(01:51):
And yes, her voice has taken her around the world.
She has shared the stage with many, many iconic artists who are,
by the way, now checking out her sold-out shows.
So you guys help me welcome the lovely, the talented, the soulful,
the entertainer, Stout.
Welcome to the Smiley J Artisan. So glad to have you.
(02:15):
So glad to be here. Thank you for having me. Absolutely. New Haven is in the
house. Yes. That's right.
So listen, I recently visited your city and let me just say it is a vibrant,
cute, fun city with like a rich culture, cultural heritage, which and I didn't
even know that it was like the birthplace of a hamburger.
(02:38):
Oh, goodness. Yes. And pizza. I don't know this, but we are like at the top
of the list. They call us the pizza capital.
And let me just tell you, I had a slice of that pizza and oh my goodness,
like I probably gained five pounds, but it was worth it.
And, you know, I had to stop by Lou's Lunch to check out a piece of the hamburger
history. Yes, ma'am. Yes, ma'am.
(03:01):
Yes, yes. Well, you know, again, we have mutual friends. Yes.
Like we have a mutual friends. And this friend of yours is a big music head like me.
And we were exchanging artists to check out. And of course, your name came up.
And he was like, that's my girl.
(03:21):
I'm like, yo. I love that. That's awesome. When somebody can speak your name
and you're not around, that's something.
Yes, yes. So shout out to your homie, Jason, who's a really nice guy.
And I can't leave out his lovely wife, Morgan. And they were so hospitable to
me when I when I came out to New Haven.
Absolutely. Shout out to them and Jazzy's Cabaret. They're doing amazing things in the city.
(03:45):
Yes, yes, yes, indeed. So if you're ever in New Haven, make sure you check out
Jazzy's Cabaret for good music, good food and good times. Absolutely.
OK, now let's talk about you. You are making quite a bit of noise out here in
these music streets. Yes.
I'm pushing. I'm trying to. Oh, my God.
(04:06):
Like, listen, this is a true story. Like, I found your video somewhere and I
posted a video you performed. I believe you were in Atlanta.
And let me just say, I gained so many new followers from your post.
I think they thought you were coming on my show.
Okay. So look at him. You're here today. So I'm super excited to have you here.
(04:28):
Yes. I'm so glad to be here. Yes. And can I just say, like, you are truly every
woman, like a mother, singer, songwriter, musician, producer, dancer, entertainer.
I'm sure there's many more titles. You want to throw some more in there?
Oh, my gosh. No, you I think you listen. I'm a prayer. I'm a prayer warrior, too.
That part. Yes. Yes. Yes. But yeah, I wear so many hats.
(04:53):
And, you know, it's really fulfilling. It's not easy, but it's definitely fulfilling. feeling.
Yes. And you know what? We appreciate your artistry. And you come from a musical
family. Your children are also artists, right?
Yes. Yes. Definitely raising them up. They showed interest.
So I'm helping to guide them between myself and their dad.
We guide them and showing them the way. And they're making their way.
(05:17):
That is beautiful. I love it.
Now, your voice is so electrifying. It's soulful.
It's, it's heartfelt. Like I hear a lot of musical influences like gospel,
soul, rock, jazz, you know, all of that.
Like, where do you draw your inspiration from? And, and, and who are some of
(05:40):
your artists that influence your music?
Yeah. You know, I get asked that a lot and it's, I've always been just my,
my palette, I say like this, like my musical palette is so broad because I love
so many styles of music that it's hard to just pinpoint one specific artist.
But my inspiration comes from so many different styles of music and artists.
(06:02):
But if I had to name a few as far as like inspiration is concerned,
you know, I could start with like the Clark Sisters, Shirley Caesar,
Aretha Franklin, gosh, Nancy Wilson.
Like, oh, my God, you know, Nirvana.
Uh-huh.
Okay. Red Hot Chili Peppers. Miles Davis.
(06:26):
Like, these are icons in the music arts. And these are people that I just really, really, truly love.
And it starts with them and it just expands to so many different places. And so, yeah.
Again, my musical palate is so broad, so it's so much that inspires me.
Just waking up every day, I'm inspired. You know, I'm inspired by nature.
(06:48):
I'm inspired by fashion.
So, yeah, it's a lot that I draw from.
And you know what? And we see all of that in your performance.
Like, you have blend all the music genres together quite well.
And I just love it. Like, I love anything that's different.
Like, I'm just naturally drawn to anything that's different.
It's not like the masses are just, like, following it. But like your music is good.
(07:11):
Your your energy is just crazy.
Wow. Thank you. Thank you so much. I love when people say, you know,
you're different. You're different. I love that you want to be different. You want to be unique.
You know, you don't want to blend in. And I I don't even try not to blend in.
I've just always been this way, you know. So it's just a blessing that people
are that they they're impacted by it.
(07:33):
Like I feel like such a blessing that people get it. Yes.
And you know what? And that, you know, music is truly your gift because you're
just pulling people in from everywhere.
And I'm here for all of that. And your music just banger. Slow down,
like stories from your teen years.
Like that's so cool. Like most people don't want to talk about those years. Right.
(07:58):
But that comes with that came from that song came from a place of,
you know, reflecting, you know, as you get older, there, you start looking back,
you start reflecting more because I know for me,
I want to be better than I was yesterday. I want to be better than I was last year.
In order to do that, you got to look back. And that's where,
(08:19):
you know, the inspiration for this song came.
I wasn't even looking for a song. I was literally just in a place of reflecting
and boom, God gave me the song.
And it's, it's, people are starting to, you know, really listen to it.
So I'm happy about that. Yeah.
Because you know, we can all, it's relatable, you know?
And then my song, listen, my song is Trigger. Yes. Because we all have them.
(08:45):
Everybody can relate to that honey okay yes yes
everybody and we we
still got work to do with that one so yes i
love it i love it and listen and by the way my favorite
line in trigger is how could you fumble me you know
i'm a queen okay fellas don't do
that don't fumble listen tell your
(09:05):
it's all in your
faith like how could you how could you miss
out on this like you're are you crazy yes yes so like that line right there
is it resonates with me don't fumble all right okay let's talk about Nina Simone
the tribute like I totally get why you picked her like Like,
(09:30):
you both have so many similarities.
Like, you both have powerful voices.
You both blend music genres so well.
And you both are unapologetically bold and beautiful and unafraid to be expressive.
Yes, she is. Everything you just said, I echo. I mean, that's exactly it.
(09:51):
She is literally like my musical, my music mom, my music, I should say grandma,
right? God rest her soul.
We were blessed. I say we, me, my team, my band, we were blessed.
I first introduced my tribute in 2020.
It was on a live stream because, you know, of course,
the pandemic and the art community here in my city,
(10:14):
they wanted to they were doing a of course an
online series concert series and they asked me
to do it so I figured that was the time to present my Nina
Simone tribute and it was it was a smash it was it was so beautiful you know
I'm proud of my arrangement of her music and the people loved it and it was
(10:34):
you know we got written up it was an article that was written up reviews were
great And so I always said,
you know, I can't wait to perform this live.
And fast forward to three years later, I had a chance to perform my full tribute
live at the legendary, iconic Blue Note Dance Hall. Yes! I saw that!
Yes! Yes. That's what's up.
(10:55):
Yup, we had two sold-out crowds. And more importantly, I mean,
that's important, but more importantly, the reviews, the impact, the words.
And we even had her grandson join us, Alexander Simone.
And that was just so.
What a proud moment. Like seriously, like seriously, so proud.
(11:19):
And, you know, her daughter approved.
Her daughter approved when we did, when I did the tribute back in 2020.
And to have her grandson come was just the icing on the cake.
And so now I figured this was a great time to,
you know, bring it, bring it to DC. So the second show will be dedicated to
Nina Simone. The second show, that's the 9 p.m. show.
(11:42):
Yes. I'm excited. You know, you know, I will be there. Come on. Yes. Yes, ma'am.
Now, because, you know, because I have a lot of independent artists who tune
into the show, like I have to mention your service, right?
So tell us a little bit about the Vocal Elite Group.
Yes, this is my baby. This is my company that I started officially in 2009.
(12:07):
And so it is a vocal performance agency.
I like to call it an agency because this company houses a couple of other entities
such as vocal contracting.
So I have quietly been contracting singers for different artists,
for TV, for recording sessions, and live performances.
(12:29):
And so now I have been inspired to, you know, kind of open it up to independent
artists and artists alike.
So again, it's vocal performance, vocal development, creative direction,
vocal contracting, and vocal production.
This all falls under my company, The Vocal Elite Group. And yeah,
we've been helping to elevate different artists, live shows,
(12:53):
their musical projects and etc.
It's so much that's under it, but it's all things vocal performance.
And I saw that and I thought that was so special. I said, not only is she super
talented, like she's such a beautiful gift to the world, not just the music,
but the music business, which we know can be ugly.
(13:13):
So, you know, you're having those artists, you know, along their journey.
So I love what you're doing.
Thank you so much. It's really my passion.
Yeah. So, you know, it's no secret that you have all of this energy,
right? Your energy is bananas.
So, I mean, because you go to a style show, you're going to get the vocals,
(13:34):
you're going to get the dancing, you're going to get all of that.
So I have to talk about like maintaining good health and mental health is crucial for creativity.
So please tell us, what is your health routine? What does that look like?
Like, well, just like, listen, this is what something that I teach my clients.
It starts with prayer. It starts with prayer for me.
(13:55):
You know, my day is centered by prayer and through prayer, talking to God.
That is the center of everything for me.
And then, of course, exercise.
Exercise is very important. I do work out. I love working out.
And of course, you know, you get the benefits mentally. Mentally,
if you align yourself, you get the benefits. Physically, absolutely.
(14:18):
And then you get the benefits emotionally. So, prayer and exercise,
eating well, eating clean, you know, no junk. You got to get rid of the junk
food and all that good stuff.
Drinking lots and lots of water. And also saying no. The power of no is real. Oh, that part.
(14:39):
That is mental health right there. That is practicing good mental health.
It's learning how to say, knowing when to say no.
All right, y'all? It's not about being rude. It's not a cocky thing.
It's just, it's about self-care. You can't do everything.
Take it from somebody who does everything. Yes.
Or I would say we try, let me rephrase that. Take it from someone who is gifted to do so much, right?
(15:04):
You have to learn how to really prioritize and learn how to say no.
It's okay to say no. So those are just a few things that I practice that help to keep me sane.
It helps to keep me centered and help to keep me healthy.
Those are really good practices, and I so appreciate you just hearing that because
(15:24):
it kind of reminds me that it's okay to say no.
Yeah, and you know, when you pray, you guys, when you pray, God will speak to
you and tell you what's for you and what's not for you.
Because a lot of the times we get so caught up into, oh, I want to be booked
and busy, I want to be booked and busy.
There's nothing wrong with that, but just make sure that everything that you're
(15:46):
doing is aligning with the will of God.
You know what and thank you for that what great
piece of advice and words of wisdom you
know to help folks just not on their creative journey but
just life period absolutely take care
of yourself mind body and soul it's all interconnected it is so you have toured
(16:06):
with like everybody alicia keys and you have shared the stage with folks from.
Stevie wonder to harry connor jr and many many more you are truly living your dream Yes.
Now, is there anybody that you would absolutely love to share the stage with?
I love I get asked this because my top, top, top dream collaboration is with Kendrick Lamar.
(16:30):
Oh, no, it's not because of this.
It's not because of the new hype. They not like us. I love that song,
by the way. But I've been a fan for many years.
He literally changed my life in 2015. scene.
And I just felt so inspired in my artistry. And I knew, I felt like this utterance
(16:53):
and like this feeling like, man, I got to collab with this artist,
man, for like, we one in the same.
So he is at the top of my list, Kendrick Lamar. I think it would make so much sense.
If I had to say someone else, honestly, y'all, I would love to get on stage.
With Fantasia. That's what I said. Oh, my God. That, you know what?
(17:14):
That is a smoker right there. I would love to see her.
I would get tired just watching both of y'all.
You want to talk about dynamic? She's already dynamic. I'm dynamic.
So us coming together, two powerhouses.
What? Oh, my God. Yes. I would definitely need front row seats for that one.
(17:35):
Oh, yeah. We both bring the house down in our own way. but also together,
man, that would be wonderful.
And I feel like that's not something that's far-fetched. I feel like that's
going to happen. I'm just speaking that. That's going to happen. Well, you know what?
I'm glad that you're speaking that because I feel like it's going to happen.
I'm just waiting for it so I can, you know, get my tickets.
(17:55):
So it's going to happen, y'all. Just stand by. It's coming. Coming soon.
Yep, stand by, everybody.
Yes, ma'am. Yes. So listen, I know you're busy.
You know, you got this tour going on. By the way, how's the tour going?
You're having fun meeting a lot of good folk.
I am. So this is a nice mini run, as we call it.
So it's not, you know, it's not like four or six weeks, but every now and then
(18:18):
it's good to just get out and do a few dates. It's going good.
You know, Tours has its highs and lows.
That's right. Tours has its highs and lows. So, you know, we were supposed to play Miami.
Miami got canceled due to severe flooding, you know.
But the upside of that is everybody on my team was safe. The other upside was
(18:39):
that it was a sold-out performance.
You know, people bought the tickets. So it was a bummer that we didn't get to perform, but they do.
You know, we are going to go back, which is beautiful. We know that people will come out.
And then we turned right around, came back, and I had a very successful Black
Pride performance in my hometown.
And then I went to New York, and we performed for the Alicia Keys after party
(19:01):
at the Tony's. So it's going good. It's going beautiful.
And now we're gearing up for D.C. in another festival.
So this is, it's a dream to be able to execute something on your own.
I'm an independent artist pushing through, beating down doors,
breaking down walls, and we're out here.
(19:23):
So, man, I couldn't ask for it any better.
And you know what? We love you. We support you. And listen, listen,
guys, if you have never seen her, go to YouTube and catch her in your city.
Yeah. So you can catch her in real time.
Yes. Yes. Yes. So listen, it
has been such a pleasure talking to you today in between all that you do.
(19:45):
So I really appreciate it. And I want to thank you again and listen,
keep moving and keep grooving. And I'll see you next week.
See you soon. Thank you for having me. Absolutely. Peace and love.
Hi, this is singer, songwriter and musician Dana Davis, and you are in the Artist Zone with Smiley J.
Music.
(23:35):
All right, all right, it's that time to say bye. For now, anyway,
you guys know you can always come on back. We can do it again, yes.
Special thanks to today's guest, the lovely Stout.
Yes, sister, keep spreading love and giving us that funky, soulful, electrifying music.
We love it, and we want all of that. Yes, indeed.
(23:56):
And y'all know how we do around these parts. You like what you heard,
you download, and you add her music to your favorite playlist. list.
Yes, because we love and support independent artists.
And you guys, be sure to check out her new music and catch her,
you know, when she comes to your city, town or parish.
Okay, you get the point. And also follow her on social media.
(24:16):
Follow her so you can keep up with all the wonderful works that she's doing.
Yes, because that's what we do around here. We love support.
We listen and we share because sharing is caring.
Until next time, I'm going to need you guys to be safe, stay well,
And remember to listen to good music.
(24:37):
Your ears will thank you for it. I'm Smiley J, and I'm out.
Music.
The Smiley J Artist Zone is a cool space dedicated to independent music creators,
conversation, music, information, laughter, and more.
And here's your host, Smiley J.
What's up, y'all? Again, I am your host, Smiley J.
Welcome, welcome, welcome. So glad you guys are hanging out with me.
Yes, welcome to this cool space that is dedicated to independent music creators.
(00:24):
Now, if this is your first time tuning in, I'm so glad that you're here.
All you got to do is come on back and let's do this again. Tell a friend and bring a friend.
Yes, you can listen to the show on your favorite music platform.
I'm in all of the major ones. Or you can listen on smileyjartisone.com.
But whatever you choose to listen, just hit that follow button.
(00:46):
Yes, and all shows are archived. So if you miss the show, no worries.
You can always go back and listen and play catch up. It's all good because,
you know, I know life be life. if any of y'all busy.
So, you know, I meet you where you are. Yes.
Now, in case you didn't know, there are like so many super talented music creators in the world.
(01:09):
So it's very difficult to quantify, but they're out there.
So to all of my artists out there, just know that there's an audience for every type of music genre.
All you have to do is just, you know, stay true to you, Stay true to your creative
vision, because there will always be a loyal following that love and appreciate
(01:29):
your music, just like today's guest.
Yes, she is true to her unique sound, and I love it. So you know what?
Let me just go ahead and introduce her to y'all, because I know y'all ready to hear from her.
This sister right here is from New Haven, Connecticut.
She is known to her fans as the Stout, yes, and she has been performing since
the age of three, singing, playing the drums, and just doing her thing.
(01:51):
And yes, her voice has taken her around the world.
She has shared the stage with many, many iconic artists who are,
by the way, now checking out her sold-out shows.
So you guys help me welcome the lovely, the talented, the soulful,
the entertainer, Stout.
Welcome to the Smiley J Artisan. So glad to have you.
(02:15):
So glad to be here. Thank you for having me. Absolutely. New Haven is in the
house. Yes. That's right.
So listen, I recently visited your city and let me just say it is a vibrant,
cute, fun city with like a rich culture, cultural heritage, which and I didn't
even know that it was like the birthplace of a hamburger.
(02:38):
Oh, goodness. Yes. And pizza. I don't know this, but we are like at the top
of the list. They call us the pizza capital.
And let me just tell you, I had a slice of that pizza and oh my goodness,
like I probably gained five pounds, but it was worth it.
And, you know, I had to stop by Lou's Lunch to check out a piece of the hamburger
history. Yes, ma'am. Yes, ma'am.
(03:01):
Yes, yes. Well, you know, again, we have mutual friends. Yes.
Like we have a mutual friends. And this friend of yours is a big music head like me.
And we were exchanging artists to check out. And of course, your name came up.
And he was like, that's my girl.
(03:21):
I'm like, yo. I love that. That's awesome. When somebody can speak your name
and you're not around, that's something.
Yes, yes. So shout out to your homie, Jason, who's a really nice guy.
And I can't leave out his lovely wife, Morgan. And they were so hospitable to
me when I when I came out to New Haven.
Absolutely. Shout out to them and Jazzy's Cabaret. They're doing amazing things in the city.
(03:45):
Yes, yes, yes, indeed. So if you're ever in New Haven, make sure you check out
Jazzy's Cabaret for good music, good food and good times. Absolutely.
OK, now let's talk about you. You are making quite a bit of noise out here in
these music streets. Yes.
I'm pushing. I'm trying to. Oh, my God.
(04:06):
Like, listen, this is a true story. Like, I found your video somewhere and I
posted a video you performed. I believe you were in Atlanta.
And let me just say, I gained so many new followers from your post.
I think they thought you were coming on my show.
Okay. So look at him. You're here today. So I'm super excited to have you here.
(04:28):
Yes. I'm so glad to be here. Yes. And can I just say, like, you are truly every
woman, like a mother, singer, songwriter, musician, producer, dancer, entertainer.
I'm sure there's many more titles. You want to throw some more in there?
Oh, my gosh. No, you I think you listen. I'm a prayer. I'm a prayer warrior, too.
That part. Yes. Yes. Yes. But yeah, I wear so many hats.
(04:53):
And, you know, it's really fulfilling. It's not easy, but it's definitely fulfilling. feeling.
Yes. And you know what? We appreciate your artistry. And you come from a musical
family. Your children are also artists, right?
Yes. Yes. Definitely raising them up. They showed interest.
So I'm helping to guide them between myself and their dad.
We guide them and showing them the way. And they're making their way.
(05:17):
That is beautiful. I love it.
Now, your voice is so electrifying. It's soulful.
It's, it's heartfelt. Like I hear a lot of musical influences like gospel,
soul, rock, jazz, you know, all of that.
Like, where do you draw your inspiration from? And, and, and who are some of
(05:40):
your artists that influence your music?
Yeah. You know, I get asked that a lot and it's, I've always been just my,
my palette, I say like this, like my musical palette is so broad because I love
so many styles of music that it's hard to just pinpoint one specific artist.
But my inspiration comes from so many different styles of music and artists.
(06:02):
But if I had to name a few as far as like inspiration is concerned,
you know, I could start with like the Clark Sisters, Shirley Caesar,
Aretha Franklin, gosh, Nancy Wilson.
Like, oh, my God, you know, Nirvana.
Uh-huh.
Okay. Red Hot Chili Peppers. Miles Davis.
(06:26):
Like, these are icons in the music arts. And these are people that I just really, really, truly love.
And it starts with them and it just expands to so many different places. And so, yeah.
Again, my musical palate is so broad, so it's so much that inspires me.
Just waking up every day, I'm inspired. You know, I'm inspired by nature.
(06:48):
I'm inspired by fashion.
So, yeah, it's a lot that I draw from.
And you know what? And we see all of that in your performance.
Like, you have blend all the music genres together quite well.
And I just love it. Like, I love anything that's different.
Like, I'm just naturally drawn to anything that's different.
It's not like the masses are just, like, following it. But like your music is good.
(07:11):
Your your energy is just crazy.
Wow. Thank you. Thank you so much. I love when people say, you know,
you're different. You're different. I love that you want to be different. You want to be unique.
You know, you don't want to blend in. And I I don't even try not to blend in.
I've just always been this way, you know. So it's just a blessing that people
are that they they're impacted by it.
(07:33):
Like I feel like such a blessing that people get it. Yes.
And you know what? And that, you know, music is truly your gift because you're
just pulling people in from everywhere.
And I'm here for all of that. And your music just banger. Slow down,
like stories from your teen years.
Like that's so cool. Like most people don't want to talk about those years. Right.
(07:58):
But that comes with that came from that song came from a place of,
you know, reflecting, you know, as you get older, there, you start looking back,
you start reflecting more because I know for me,
I want to be better than I was yesterday. I want to be better than I was last year.
In order to do that, you got to look back. And that's where,
(08:19):
you know, the inspiration for this song came.
I wasn't even looking for a song. I was literally just in a place of reflecting
and boom, God gave me the song.
And it's, it's, people are starting to, you know, really listen to it.
So I'm happy about that. Yeah.
Because you know, we can all, it's relatable, you know?
And then my song, listen, my song is Trigger. Yes. Because we all have them.
(08:45):
Everybody can relate to that honey okay yes yes
everybody and we we
still got work to do with that one so yes i
love it i love it and listen and by the way my favorite
line in trigger is how could you fumble me you know
i'm a queen okay fellas don't do
that don't fumble listen tell your
(09:05):
it's all in your
faith like how could you how could you miss
out on this like you're are you crazy yes yes so like that line right there
is it resonates with me don't fumble all right okay let's talk about Nina Simone
the tribute like I totally get why you picked her like Like,
(09:30):
you both have so many similarities.
Like, you both have powerful voices.
You both blend music genres so well.
And you both are unapologetically bold and beautiful and unafraid to be expressive.
Yes, she is. Everything you just said, I echo. I mean, that's exactly it.
(09:51):
She is literally like my musical, my music mom, my music, I should say grandma,
right? God rest her soul.
We were blessed. I say we, me, my team, my band, we were blessed.
I first introduced my tribute in 2020.
It was on a live stream because, you know, of course,
the pandemic and the art community here in my city,
(10:14):
they wanted to they were doing a of course an
online series concert series and they asked me
to do it so I figured that was the time to present my Nina
Simone tribute and it was it was a smash it was it was so beautiful you know
I'm proud of my arrangement of her music and the people loved it and it was
(10:34):
you know we got written up it was an article that was written up reviews were
great And so I always said,
you know, I can't wait to perform this live.
And fast forward to three years later, I had a chance to perform my full tribute
live at the legendary, iconic Blue Note Dance Hall. Yes! I saw that!
Yes! Yes. That's what's up.
(10:55):
Yup, we had two sold-out crowds. And more importantly, I mean,
that's important, but more importantly, the reviews, the impact, the words.
And we even had her grandson join us, Alexander Simone.
And that was just so.
What a proud moment. Like seriously, like seriously, so proud.
(11:19):
And, you know, her daughter approved.
Her daughter approved when we did, when I did the tribute back in 2020.
And to have her grandson come was just the icing on the cake.
And so now I figured this was a great time to,
you know, bring it, bring it to DC. So the second show will be dedicated to
Nina Simone. The second show, that's the 9 p.m. show.
(11:42):
Yes. I'm excited. You know, you know, I will be there. Come on. Yes. Yes, ma'am.
Now, because, you know, because I have a lot of independent artists who tune
into the show, like I have to mention your service, right?
So tell us a little bit about the Vocal Elite Group.
Yes, this is my baby. This is my company that I started officially in 2009.
(12:07):
And so it is a vocal performance agency.
I like to call it an agency because this company houses a couple of other entities
such as vocal contracting.
So I have quietly been contracting singers for different artists,
for TV, for recording sessions, and live performances.
(12:29):
And so now I have been inspired to, you know, kind of open it up to independent
artists and artists alike.
So again, it's vocal performance, vocal development, creative direction,
vocal contracting, and vocal production.
This all falls under my company, The Vocal Elite Group. And yeah,
we've been helping to elevate different artists, live shows,
(12:53):
their musical projects and etc.
It's so much that's under it, but it's all things vocal performance.
And I saw that and I thought that was so special. I said, not only is she super
talented, like she's such a beautiful gift to the world, not just the music,
but the music business, which we know can be ugly.
(13:13):
So, you know, you're having those artists, you know, along their journey.
So I love what you're doing.
Thank you so much. It's really my passion.
Yeah. So, you know, it's no secret that you have all of this energy,
right? Your energy is bananas.
So, I mean, because you go to a style show, you're going to get the vocals,
(13:34):
you're going to get the dancing, you're going to get all of that.
So I have to talk about like maintaining good health and mental health is crucial for creativity.
So please tell us, what is your health routine? What does that look like?
Like, well, just like, listen, this is what something that I teach my clients.
It starts with prayer. It starts with prayer for me.
(13:55):
You know, my day is centered by prayer and through prayer, talking to God.
That is the center of everything for me.
And then, of course, exercise.
Exercise is very important. I do work out. I love working out.
And of course, you know, you get the benefits mentally. Mentally,
if you align yourself, you get the benefits. Physically, absolutely.
(14:18):
And then you get the benefits emotionally. So, prayer and exercise,
eating well, eating clean, you know, no junk. You got to get rid of the junk
food and all that good stuff.
Drinking lots and lots of water. And also saying no. The power of no is real. Oh, that part.
(14:39):
That is mental health right there. That is practicing good mental health.
It's learning how to say, knowing when to say no.
All right, y'all? It's not about being rude. It's not a cocky thing.
It's just, it's about self-care. You can't do everything.
Take it from somebody who does everything. Yes.
Or I would say we try, let me rephrase that. Take it from someone who is gifted to do so much, right?
(15:04):
You have to learn how to really prioritize and learn how to say no.
It's okay to say no. So those are just a few things that I practice that help to keep me sane.
It helps to keep me centered and help to keep me healthy.
Those are really good practices, and I so appreciate you just hearing that because
(15:24):
it kind of reminds me that it's okay to say no.
Yeah, and you know, when you pray, you guys, when you pray, God will speak to
you and tell you what's for you and what's not for you.
Because a lot of the times we get so caught up into, oh, I want to be booked
and busy, I want to be booked and busy.
There's nothing wrong with that, but just make sure that everything that you're
(15:46):
doing is aligning with the will of God.
You know what and thank you for that what great
piece of advice and words of wisdom you
know to help folks just not on their creative journey but
just life period absolutely take care
of yourself mind body and soul it's all interconnected it is so you have toured
(16:06):
with like everybody alicia keys and you have shared the stage with folks from.
Stevie wonder to harry connor jr and many many more you are truly living your dream Yes.
Now, is there anybody that you would absolutely love to share the stage with?
I love I get asked this because my top, top, top dream collaboration is with Kendrick Lamar.
(16:30):
Oh, no, it's not because of this.
It's not because of the new hype. They not like us. I love that song,
by the way. But I've been a fan for many years.
He literally changed my life in 2015. scene.
And I just felt so inspired in my artistry. And I knew, I felt like this utterance
(16:53):
and like this feeling like, man, I got to collab with this artist,
man, for like, we one in the same.
So he is at the top of my list, Kendrick Lamar. I think it would make so much sense.
If I had to say someone else, honestly, y'all, I would love to get on stage.
With Fantasia. That's what I said. Oh, my God. That, you know what?
(17:14):
That is a smoker right there. I would love to see her.
I would get tired just watching both of y'all.
You want to talk about dynamic? She's already dynamic. I'm dynamic.
So us coming together, two powerhouses.
What? Oh, my God. Yes. I would definitely need front row seats for that one.
(17:35):
Oh, yeah. We both bring the house down in our own way. but also together,
man, that would be wonderful.
And I feel like that's not something that's far-fetched. I feel like that's
going to happen. I'm just speaking that. That's going to happen. Well, you know what?
I'm glad that you're speaking that because I feel like it's going to happen.
I'm just waiting for it so I can, you know, get my tickets.
(17:55):
So it's going to happen, y'all. Just stand by. It's coming. Coming soon.
Yep, stand by, everybody.
Yes, ma'am. Yes. So listen, I know you're busy.
You know, you got this tour going on. By the way, how's the tour going?
You're having fun meeting a lot of good folk.
I am. So this is a nice mini run, as we call it.
So it's not, you know, it's not like four or six weeks, but every now and then
(18:18):
it's good to just get out and do a few dates. It's going good.
You know, Tours has its highs and lows.
That's right. Tours has its highs and lows. So, you know, we were supposed to play Miami.
Miami got canceled due to severe flooding, you know.
But the upside of that is everybody on my team was safe. The other upside was
(18:39):
that it was a sold-out performance.
You know, people bought the tickets. So it was a bummer that we didn't get to perform, but they do.
You know, we are going to go back, which is beautiful. We know that people will come out.
And then we turned right around, came back, and I had a very successful Black
Pride performance in my hometown.
And then I went to New York, and we performed for the Alicia Keys after party
(19:01):
at the Tony's. So it's going good. It's going beautiful.
And now we're gearing up for D.C. in another festival.
So this is, it's a dream to be able to execute something on your own.
I'm an independent artist pushing through, beating down doors,
breaking down walls, and we're out here.
(19:23):
So, man, I couldn't ask for it any better.
And you know what? We love you. We support you. And listen, listen,
guys, if you have never seen her, go to YouTube and catch her in your city.
Yeah. So you can catch her in real time.
Yes. Yes. Yes. So listen, it
has been such a pleasure talking to you today in between all that you do.
(19:45):
So I really appreciate it. And I want to thank you again and listen,
keep moving and keep grooving. And I'll see you next week.
See you soon. Thank you for having me. Absolutely. Peace and love.
Hi, this is singer, songwriter and musician Dana Davis, and you are in the Artist Zone with Smiley J.
Music.
(23:35):
All right, all right, it's that time to say bye. For now, anyway,
you guys know you can always come on back. We can do it again, yes.
Special thanks to today's guest, the lovely Stout.
Yes, sister, keep spreading love and giving us that funky, soulful, electrifying music.
We love it, and we want all of that. Yes, indeed.
(23:56):
And y'all know how we do around these parts. You like what you heard,
you download, and you add her music to your favorite playlist. list.
Yes, because we love and support independent artists.
And you guys, be sure to check out her new music and catch her,
you know, when she comes to your city, town or parish.
Okay, you get the point. And also follow her on social media.
(24:16):
Follow her so you can keep up with all the wonderful works that she's doing.
Yes, because that's what we do around here. We love support.
We listen and we share because sharing is caring.
Until next time, I'm going to need you guys to be safe, stay well,
And remember to listen to good music.
(24:37):
Your ears will thank you for it. I'm Smiley J, and I'm out.
Music.
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