Does the music scene in Toronto hold you back?

Hold me back? No. Nothing can. Made it really difficult for me and other artists? Yes. A lot of us haven’t been on tour.

A lot of us don’t get paid enough or exposed enough. There’s only one commercial urban radio station in Toronto and even that isn’t really urban anymore! However, I feel like it makes us better because we have to think outside the box, we have to take initiative.

There are no major labels out here that willing to support local artists or spend any money on them. Not many managers that are knowledgeable or that do it full time.

They say there is no market for urban music here. I say there aren’t many outlets. Instead of complaining though, (and I can be good at complaining), I just have to be proactive, create outlets, and exploit what’s available, like the internet.

Many Canadians have moved to major American cities to pursue their dreams of singing, is this something you would do?

Many Canadian artists have also moved to major American cities, and then moved right back! So, I definitely would make that move. I just would make sure the situation and the time is right for me to do it, in order to do it properly.

You also mentor kids, how did you get involved in that?

I’ve always been interested in humanity and the human mind. It came natural and made sense that I would work with the youth. I’m growing up still myself. I think I always will be. It makes me happy to be able to be there for kids and just be supportive. Truly listen, not judge. I’ve been misunderstood many times in my life, and to just have someone be there, be willing to give you time, is so uplifting.

Are you happy with the progress you are making?

Yes I am. I’m so happy. I’m excited! I’m learning and looking forward to what’s next. What can we expect from you in the future? Expect the world! Really though, expect me to grow, to change, to get better, to make more music, to be there.

Melanie Cornish