Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how your childhood impacted your musical direction?
A: I’m a professional vocalist, songwriter, vocal coach, and instructional designer. I’m also incredibly proud to be a Voting Member of the Recording Academy and a member of the Country Music Association. Growing up, I was exposed to a massive melting pot of sounds, which completely shaped my musical direction. It taught me early on not to put myself in a box. Because of that foundation, my music today spans across Pop, Rock, Funk, Country, Blues, and Jazz. I’ve always believed that a good song transcends genre, and my childhood definitely gave me the freedom to explore all of them.
Q: How are you planning on growing your fan base and sharing your music with the world? What message do you have for anyone who is about to discover “Sherise”?
A: I’m focusing on a mix of live performances—like my recent showcases at MusicFuze LA and the Hard Rock Cafe and consistent digital releases, including music videos for songs like “Embrace This Love.” I also stay deeply connected to the indie community through my work as a core team member of Lazie Indie Magazine. To anyone just discovering me, my message is: welcome to the journey! My music is diverse, so whether you want to dance, reflect, or just rock out, there’s a place for you here. Expect the unexpected.
Q: Who is the most inspiring artist for you right now? And where do you find inspiration for making music?
A: Because my style is so varied, I’m constantly inspired by artists who successfully bridge multiple genres and break industry rules. As for my own inspiration, it comes from human connection, storytelling, and the complexities of everyday life. I actually started out writing a lot of poetry—I even published a book called Directions, Dimensions, Dexterity. So a lot of my musical inspiration starts simply as words and emotions on a page before they ever find a melody.
Q: Can you tell us about the story or message behind the song, “Funk Train”?
A: “Funk Train” is all about letting go, getting on board with good vibes, and just letting the rhythm take over. I wanted to create something that immediately makes you tap your foot and want to dance. It’s a celebration of groove, unity, and that classic, unapologetic funk energy brought into the modern day. It’s meant to be an absolute blast to listen to.
Q: How would you describe your sound in one word for potential listeners? A: Multidimensional.
Q: Did you face any challenges while writing or recording “Funk Train”?
A: The biggest challenge with a track like “Funk Train” is capturing that perfect, undeniable groove. Funk is all about the “pocket”: that incredibly specific space between the notes. As a songwriter and vocalist, I had to make sure my vocal arrangement sat perfectly inside that rhythm to elevate the instrumentation without overpowering it. It took some tweaking to get the vibe and the attitude just right!
Q: What is the message of your music? And what are your goals as an artist?
A: The core message of my music is authenticity, resilience, and empowerment. Whether I’m singing a deeper, more emotional track like “Take Me Away” or an upbeat anthem, I want my listeners to feel understood and uplifted. My goal is to keep growing my catalog, pushing my creative boundaries, and continuing to advocate for independent artists globally. Winning awards like the International Female Songwriter of the Year (ISSA) in 2025 and Best Pop Artist at the Indie Music Awards has been incredibly validating, and my goal is just to keep building on that momentum.
Q: Who is your dream artist to collaborate with? (dead or alive)
A: Because I love blending genres and have such a deep appreciation for funk, pop, and soul, someone like Prince or Stevie Wonder would be the ultimate dream. Their sheer musicality, their ability to transcend genres, and the way they arrange their vocals and instrumentation is exactly the kind of limitless creativity I strive for.
Q: What is your advice for people interested in pursuing music as a career or for those trying to enter the industry?
A: Never stop learning and never stop honing your craft. As a vocal coach, I constantly remind my students that your instrument needs care and development. Also, don’t be afraid to wear multiple hats! You have to be your own advocate—learn the business side, network relentlessly, and stay true to your unique sound. Consistency and resilience are everything in this industry.
Q: If you could go back in time and give a younger you some words of wisdom, what would they be?
A: I would tell myself to trust the timeline and embrace all of your passions. You don’t have to choose between being a musician, a writer, or a vocal coach, they will all inform and elevate each other in beautiful ways. Stay the course, keep writing, and celebrate the small wins just as much as the big ones!
