Hard as it is for anyone under 25 to believe, there was a time when Atlanta Contemporary R&B was the red-headed stepchild of hip-hop soul. New York’s R&B purists will look down their noses at anything, but they reserved particular scorn from the South, and R&B from the ATL in particular.
It’s 2017, though, and the A’s status as one of the capitals of Soul Music was confirmed long ago…
ATL has been a R&B factory for more than two decades, but this amazing talent takes the cake. Atlanta is arguably the most layered music community in hip-hop, R&B and Soul . It cranks out at least three new stars every year. So, since we at Exposed Vocals specialize in up-and-coming artists – Lets take a look at Daphne J. aka. Ms. Songbird. Raised in a military family and traveling around the U.S, it was not easy to create a grass-root base. Originally from St. Louis , MO and now ringing bells in Atlanta it’s hard to image she started out with a karaoke machine that her mom purchased when she was little.
“I learned how to record with my voice and background vocals just by using two cassette tapes.That’s when I discovered my passion for writing songs, which my first song that I written was called “what would it take” I also performed that one at a local talent show. I can say I was ready for this new found talent, ready to do what made me happy.”
– Daphine stated during an interview with Exposed Vocals last month (see the complete updated interview below:
This track, Ladies Anthem, is a good example of her songwriting and production. Daphine has the ability to write memorable and emotive melodies which is the most important aspect in writing any kind of music. Lyrically, it complements the realness of the music:
“Can’t let no one get the best of me/ …but I know my dreams / now look at me”
Overall, this is a highly accomplished single both musically and lyrically. It’s the work of a genuine artist that will reveal its depths upon repeated listening, such is the level of detail and sophistication. A highly recommended listen.
By Heather M.
Music and Fashion Blogger
Exclusive Interview:
I grew up in a military family, my father was an Army drill sergeant. So my family never stayed in one state. However, my father was the singer of the family and I gained my vocal talents from him. I also used to listen to alot of his old records like Tina marie, Isley brothers, Gap band, SOS Band, Madonna, Milli Jackson, Betty Right, Chaka khan, and his favorite Sade. My first song I ever took to liking was by Cherly Pepsi Riley called “How can you hurt the one you love” which I song at a local talent show, and that’s when every one discovered that I had a true talent, even myself. My mother purchased me a karaoke machine where I learned how to record with my voice and background vocals just by using two cassette tapes.That’s when I discovered my passion for writing songs. My first song that I’d written was called “What would it take?” I also performed that one at a local talent show. I can say I was ready for this new found talent, ready to do what made me happy.
Yes, honestly (laughing) All time. From either starting to late or early with the song entrance or forgetting the words. I normally would do what most artist do, Talk through it to get the audience participation. Especially if they know the words of the song for you.
No I haven’t toured yet, but I’m looking forward too.
Just continue to market yourself, your music and your brand. Facebook actually is the best social media site out there but I still have a ways to go with my other sites like building my fan base up and getting my music out there to be heard. I just want them to hear my sound, my creativity and my heart in each song. But what I have come to know is that most people will gravitate to you based off who you are in connection with. So I would love to connect with more already established artists, producers, songwriters, dj’s ect.
It’s so many artists i really don’t know who? But any stadium would be fine or maybe overseas like London is a dream come true.
Yes! My EP, titled “Recovery” it’s a long awaiting project that everyone is so ready to hear. I wrote every song on it.
Working trying to provide for my children like I’m doing now.
More music, live performances, and more of Daphne J. the artist.
Just a huge shout out to all of my true and loyal family and friends. They have made this journey possible. And especially to my mother who I just lost last year in May to lung cancer. She was my most realest fan. Love her so much. RIH
