Yvette Michele: Still Living Her Dream

Let’s start off by retracing your whole her-story — Tell me your inception into music; when did you first become interested in it? And, how did it all begin for you?

I’ve loved music all my life it seems. I began taking guitar lessons at 10, while singing in the church choir throughout my youth / young adult years.

Now where exactly do you hail from? And growing up there, who all did / do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?

I am from NYC; born in Brooklyn, and raised in Manhattan and The Bronx. My strongest musical influences stem from the urban music of the ‘70’s and ‘80’s.

That being said, how would you describe and / or define the style of music that you create and perform?

My sound is influenced by an array of different genres; R&B, Hip Hop, Funk, Disco and Pop, which have each been lifelong influences musically. I am a product of NYC, therefore performing arts is a core part of my identity with many successful artists thriving in the city.

When you sit down to pen your lyrics, where do you draw your inspiration from?

My inspiration comes from everywhere, but mostly the stories I hear / see or directly from a personal experience.

What particular string of events actually led to your initial linking up with Funkmaster Flex and ultimately signing with Loud Records?

I was actively shopping my demo when I coincidentally ran into Flex and was able to share a copy with him for consideration in a project he was working on; his 60 Minutes of Funk album with Loud Records. We agreed to work on one song, and it was “Everyday and Everynight,” which became the only original track on the album. It was due to the success of the single / album that I was offered my own deal with the label.

Which brings us to now — As of late, what all exactly had / have you been up to; both personally and professionally speaking?

I have a consulting business, and when able I am performing across the country in legacy shows. My break from the industry was dedicated to raising my children, who were very young, and to complete my education.

Switching gears here, how has not only the industry itself, but even more-so you as an individual, either changed and / or evolved since your whole inception into music?

The industry has changed in many fundamental ways from the way the music is recorded to the way it is distributed. Technology has made it easier for the correction of recording and vocal errors, and the minimization of the need for formal musical / engineering training, the identification of obscure musical samples and consumers across the globe (versus one’s local market), and the ability to self-service all elements; including marking and distribution to retain full creative and business control.

Longevity, what do you attribute yours to?

I am grateful to have created works that are timeless and afford me the ability to bring new and old fans to the table.

What do you want people to get from your music?

I’d like for listeners to know that I love music and respect it via my attention to authenticity, quality, and creativity.

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

I am an avid runner and hope to complete the NYC marathon one day. I am writing a book about my journey in the music business and the reinvention that followed. And I also enjoy tinkering with music production, songwriting, and DJ’ing.

What has been your greatest career achievement(s), at least thus far anyway?

My greatest musical achievement is the success that I have achieved organically pre-internet in the US and Europe. With organic street promotion, I was successful in being recognized by the Hip Hop world with a song that appealed to a core component of the culture, the DJ.

What’s an average day like for you?

My day is typically structured, but easy going…I wake up early and meditate as I stretch (yoga). I then lift weights or if it is a cardio day I’ll ride my Peloton or walk 2-3miles outdoors / on my treadmill while listening to news and astrology podcasts. I then shower, eat, and begin my projects for the day.

Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…

I use social media to interact with fans primarily, but when I am at venues I will make time whether before or after my performances to ensure I engage 1:1. I am learning to use video functionality more, it doesn’t come naturally to me to record myself.

What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? Why?

I love the creative process, however, I do not enjoy the business aspect of the industry.

What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

My recommendation for anyone who wants to become a recording artist is to be able to clearly define their direction and brand requirements, so they remain authentic.

And, lastly, what’s next for you, Yvette?

More performing and new music!

Is there anything I left out, or just plain forgot to mention?

I am grateful for the fans who continue to support me and those newcomers who are discovering my music. I love what I do and am hoping for many years to continue sharing my gift.

Any “closing” thought(s) for our readers?

Thank you! Many thanks and best wishes on your project!

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Tags: Funkmaster Flex, loud records, Peloton, Yvette Michele