Born Stacey Joanne Graham, Jo The Sunchild started singing at a very early age, Growing up in Gardena and Compton California has given her strength and the willingness to accomplish her dreams as a singer/songwriter and with a musical family she was born to do just that. From her early beginnings her musical influences where church and her household with multiple family members who play instruments and sing its no wonder how Jo became an experienced musician and creative songwriter at a young age. Her debut EP titled “Light” features songs that were all written by her, This young composer writes lyrics that tell a musical journey and allow the listener to travel through each song hanging on every word giving a mental picture as you feel the music.
Exposed Vocals: So tell us your story. Where did you grow up? What made you decide to become an artist?
I grew up in Gardena, CA then moved to Compton, CA, when I was 12. I’ve always loved music. As far as my memories go back, I’ve always found myself around or doing music in some way. Usually under my Dad, he’s the one who mentored me vocally & as a musician. I never really decided on being an artist. I just kept creating until my passion & my career became one.
Exposed Vocals: Since everyone was a start-up once, can you give any smaller or local bands or artists looking to get gigs and airplay some tips?
The best piece of advice I could give is to lay aside all pride. Ask for features, ask to get on certain line ups! You can’t get out there if you’re not networking. Doors don’t open because you’re on the porch, you have to KNOCK!
Exposed Vocals: Do you ever make mistakes during performances? How do you handle that?
When I sing, I perform live, so I’ve had shows where I’ve messed up before but usually the audience doesn’t notice the small things I Ted to magnify. Even If they do notice the mistake, I just laugh with them about it then continue to groove them.
Exposed Vocals: Do you tour? Anything interesting happen on tour that you think our readers would enjoy hearing about?
I haven’t had the pleasure of having the full tour experience yet, but I’ve performed at plenty of shows and I’ll never forget this one time I just got done doing this gig in DTLA and when I went to look for my ride they already left. So, there I am. Me, my keyboard & other equipment and my homegirl, who rode the bus & 2 trains back with me to my house. The funny thing about this story though, is what happened in between time while waiting on train number two. Anticipating the trains arrival, I decided to hook up my keyboard on the platform and jam out! It was so dope. Some people even came over and started freestyling with me! One of my favourite memories.
Exposed Vocals: Any planned studio upgrades? What are you working with now?
Yeeees! New studio upgrades are like new toys for me! I’ve just made an upgrade in the production department. I’ve been using the Akai MPK mini (special edition). The red & black keys are so pretty, and I just love how portable it is. It makes writing and producing music on the go practical.
Exposed Vocals: How do you find ways to promote your music? What works best for you?
Promoting my music is a 24/7 job. It doesn’t just stop at shows, interviews and social media. I’m always reaching out, letting people know what I have going on with my music whether it’s my mailman or someone I’m having small talk with. The grind never stops.
Exposed Vocals: If you could perform anywhere and with any artists (Dead or Alive) where and who would it be with? Why?
There are just so many different artists from so many different genres that I would love to jam out with, but if I had to choose it would be Teena Marie I’ve been on a Lady-T vibe lately, so if I ever was granted the wish to put on such a show, the tour would last 30 years non-stop.
Exposed Vocals: So, what’s next? Any new upcoming projects that you want to talk about?
Yes! Very very soon you can be on the lookout for “LIGHT” my ep. I’ve written all the songs and I just can’t wait for everyone to vibe and connect with me through my music.
Exposed Vocals: If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing?
If I weren’t making music I’d probably be a circus act because I’m extremely flexible and I like turning flips and stuff or I’d be a fashion designer or stylist because I love fashion, fabrics, putting together looks.
Exposed Vocals: What should fans look forward to in the next year or so?
I have something special in the works. For those who don’t know, I’ve been practicing yoga religiously for about 3 years now and I been working on a book full of body & mind strengthening yoga poses & quotes for EVERYONE to try. I’m super excited about it so get ready because it’s coming soon!
Exposed Vocals: Any Shout-outs?
First I’d like to give a huge shout to my team Pulsar Music Group and to my teammates Fresh Rio & Rowlex they also have music that just dropped so go check them out. I’d also like to shout out two amazing artists & performers Virr a and Devin the Kid.
