LaToya London: Nothing Is Stronger Than Love

Let’s hop right into this latest single “On Everything,” featuring Anthony Hamilton — Tell me about this particular track? How did it actually come to fruition?

While creating songs for my upcoming album, I wanted to have a duet on the album. I thought who better to have than my friend Anthony Hamilton. We go way back before stardom days, and I felt a collaboration was surely in order.

So what all exactly had / have you been up to, both personally and professionally speaking, during this lengthy musical hiatus?

I’ve been in the music studio working…also, I starred in the stage play ‘Set It Off’ with Da Brat and Vanessa Simmons. I have also been working on my lifestyle brand that I will be introducing to the world soon. Very excited.

Tell me your whole inception into music — When did you first become interested? And, how did it all begin for LaToya London?

I was first interested in music at a very early age…around 4 years old. Started performing for crowds at age 7…in music studios by age 12, singing professionally by age 18 and on national TV by age 20. Prior to American Idol, I was on MTV’s The Cut and UPN’s Your Big Break.

Now you’re a San Francisco, CA, native, correct? So growing up in ‘Frisco,’ who all did / do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?

I’m an Oakland, California, native. Growing up, my influences were En Vogue, Anita Baker, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Gospel music.

With that being said, how do you classify your overall sound and / or style?

I would say my overall sound is sultry and classic with sex appeal. Well at least that’s what the consensus is. Lol!

The masses first became familiar with you back in 2004 while you were competing on the third season of American Idol where you finished in fourth place — What are some of your fondest memories from this specific time in your life?

My fondest memories during that time was living in Los Angeles and really enjoying myself. Enjoying my relationship at that time, my friends, some of what the city had to offer. I was living it up.

Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?

I want people to listen to my music and walk away with more of an understanding of the role they play in life and their relationships. I’m all about self reflection, and I feel more of that needs to happen for this world to be better.

If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?

I would love to collaborate with Kendrick Lamar (and) Joe.

If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why?

Just give me a stage with a professional sound system and I’m happy. It’s time for me to start doing what I was born to do…perform for the masses.

In terms of longevity, what do you feel it is that will continue to sustain you in this grueling industry?

I believe consistency and staying connected to my fans is what will sustain me.

Do you have any other outside / additional future aspirations, maybe even completely away from entertainment?

I do. As I mentioned earlier, I have a lifestyle part of my brand that involves health and fitness. I’m trained in the culinary arts, as well as holistic nutrition and fitness. So I’m excited to share that part of myself with the world.

You’re also an actress having appeared on stage in productions of both The Color Purple and The Bodyguard — Is acting still on your radar? If so, anything coming up for you anytime soon?

Yes, acting is still on my radar. Being in musical stage productions throughout the years, I am ready to dive into television and film when the right role presents itself.

To date, what has been your biggest career moment(s), at least thus far anyway?

Of course American Idol was a huge career moment. Also, sharing the stage with legendary entertainers like Tyler Perry, Snoop Dogg and many more.

Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?

I see myself finally getting to sit back and enjoy the fruits of my labor. But right now, it’s grind time. Let’s Go!!