Interviews

Published on October 17th, 2019 | by Landon Buford

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Actress/Singer Kallee Brookes Talks Hollywood Struggles and New Album

Photo credit: @phantomphotographic

Kallee Brookes is a recording artist, actor, and Compton native. She has appeared on such television shows as “9-1-1” with Angela Bassett, “Lucifer” on Netflix, “How I Met Your Mother,” and “NCIS.” As a recording artist, Kallee recently released her empowerment anthem “Vibe.” Her upcoming double album “Trap Fairy,” set for a fall 2019 release, will demonstrate the wide contrast between her angelic voice and her hypnotic melodies. Kallee has also been in the studio with new mentor Jason “Problem” Martin working on some upcoming surprises as well. I caught up with Kallee to discuss television roles, her shift into music, and the importance of artistic programs in schools.

You recently were featured in the TV series “Lucifer” playing a character named Beatrix. Can you talk about your role?

Booking the role of Beatrix on “Lucifer” was really exciting for me because I’ve been a fan of the show since it first aired season one on Fox. It was also a great opportunity to add a quirky, hipster character to my acting reel. As an aside, my outfit was one of my favorite on-screen outfits. And I remember eating delicious fish for lunch! 

You had the opportunity to work with talent such as Tom Ellis, Rachael Harris, Kevin Alejandro, and Lauren German. Can talk about the vibe on set?

At first I was nervous to be on set with Lauren and Tom – especially Tom, because he’s a celebrity crush of mine. But they were so easy and fun to be around that the nerves didn’t last. Having them both standings in front of me on-camera was a surreal moment for sure. But once I heard “action,” the scene flowed seamlessly and it was over before I knew it.

You also are a part of a project entitled “Los Angeless.” Can you tell us what type of genre the project is and the kind of role you are playing?
“Los Angeless” is an anthology series made up of 9 short films shot, written, starring and directed by women. I star in the short entitled “Birdy,” which was written and directed by Nathalie Touboul. I play Kristi, a homeless woman who gets taken on an unexpected adventure. We have submitted it to many film festivals and are excited for its release in 2020. 

What are some of the things you have learned from when you were featured on “Saving Grace” in 2007 to now as an actress?
I was a teenager when I booked “Saving Grace” and remember thinking that I had made it! But it’s been a bit of a hard road since then. I learned that this career isn’t easy. It’s riddled with rejection. But when I do book a job, it’s so rewarding that it gives me enough motivation to continue moving forward. 
 
Who are some of the actresses and actors that you studied growing up?

Natalie Portman, Halle Berry, Shia LaBeouf, Leonardo DiCaprio, just to name a few. 

Is there anyone in particular that you would like to work with on a project? 

Jordan Peele. I can’t wait to work with him. 
 
You also are a songstress and pursuing a career in music. When did you start to sing, and were you part of the choir growing up?

Yes, I was in choir in middle and high school, though I really wasn’t serious about singing until I started working with my vocal coach, Benjilino. In 2013, Benji was walking by a recording studio I was in. He heard me spitting some verses. He loved my voice and asked if he could give me a free lesson. I didn’t even know I could sing. But I guess everyone can – you just have to find your voice!
 
You recently released your single “Vibe.” Can you talk about what inspired the record?
 
Vibe is about being myself – young and free. I think that’s what a lot of my songs are about. Do whatever you want. Fuck it, YOLO.

A lot of the school programs are being cut by districts across the country. Can you talk about the importance of having programs like the choir, band, theatre, orchestra, and other extra curriculum actives helped get you to where you are today? 

We need these artistic programs in schools because developing the creative brain is just as important to as developing the logical brain. Music and other creative arts give young people the opportunity to express themselves. It’s especially important for low-income areas where children are more susceptible to drugs and gangs. 
 
Who are some of the artists you would like to collaborate with on a single or album? 

Problem, Lil Yachty, Swae Lee, and Cardi B. 

Is there any content you are currently working that you would like to share with us?

I’m releasing a new single with Neaks called “Vitamin D,” which will be available on all platforms mid-October. I’m also working towards releasing my solo project. Since I make trap music and pop music I’m releasing a double album. One side will be “Trap Fairy” the other side “Pop Fairy.” I’ll be releasing my first two singles, one from each album, “Rude” and “Cards” in November. 

                                            Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kalleebrookes/

                                                  Website: https://www.kalleebrookes.com

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About the Author

Washington State Graduate Past Interviews include Grammy Award Winner Kenny G, David Banner, WNBA President Lisa Borders, What's Trending's CEO Shira Lazar, Ice Cube, NBC's Chicago PD LaRoyce Hawkins, Family Matters Darius McCrary, En Vogues Maxine Jones, Team USA Track & Field Member Norris Frederick, James Kyson, WNBA Great Lauren Jackson, and more.


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