Tatiana
Tatiana's debut solo album is about to be released here in the UK as she brings her sound to these shores for the very first time.
Once part of an eight piece band she is now establishing herself as a solo artist and FemaleFirst caught up with her to talk about that new record.
- Spider Web is your debut single so how excited are you to be introducing yourself to a UK audience?
It is wonderful to present my music to the audience that haven't heard of me before. It is a very important test for an artist like me, who co wrote the music for the album and has never been released internationally.
But after the first gigs in the UK, I can say that I've never felt so confident and so ...in the right place.
- So for anyone who has not heard your single yet how would you describe your musical style.
Spider web single is a mid tempo ballad with a lot of space filled with emotional vocals and a catchy piano line.
This song is a teaser to Tatiana's musical style which I'd describe as a fusion of pop, jazz, soul and funk.
- There is also an album on the way, also called Spider Web, so what can we expect from it? And what was the inspiration behind the album's title?
When the first single was chosen it was a natural choice that the album will have the same title.
This explanation is pretty boring that's why I prefer to think that with the song and the whole album I'll be able to catch the UK audience into Tatiana's spider web.
Don't you think that on the Spider web video I look a bit like a spider Mama:-)?
I was told by the journalist that some tracks from the album remind them of James Bond soundtrack.
For me it is what I wanted to hear as Gladys Knight, Tina Turner, Shirley Bassey are my idols. I love the brasses and strings arrangements on the "Spider web" album.
I could go on and on saying why I like it so much but why not checking it for yourself by listening to the samples on my website www.tatianaofficial.com
- You have worked with Tim Hutton on the album - he has worked with the likes of Amy Winehouse and Ian Brown - so how have you found collaborating with him?
My manager played me one of his songs. I felt like it was written for me. I knew right away that I just must sing it.
That was "Been a fool" the first track we've recorded with Tim. During this session we've realised that there is a chemistry between us and we're willing to work with each other.
We had a great connection in the studio and Tim is the first composer/writer who's work suited me and my voice totally.
- You kicked off your career in band Blue Cafe so what made you go it alone? How have you found the transition into a solo artist?
I spent seven years in a big band(8 people). Throughout this time I grew up not only as a woman but also as an artist. I knew that the best way to evolve is to go on my own.
Not compromising musically and feeling that you are 100% responsible of how people will receive you is the main thing I appreciate in being a solo artist.
- You have described Britain as the 'centre of European music' so what is it about our industry that excites you?
The big competition! Lots of platforms for different kinds of music. Lots of great music clubs, festivals, music TV shows. Besides all this it is obvious that you can either make it in NY or London. I feel good in London.
- What sort of music are you listening to at the moment? And who would you credit as your musical influences?
The list is long but let me pick few artists that are always on my playlist: Chaka Khan, Led Zeppelin, Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, Michel Buble, Rachel Ferrell, Melody Gardot, George Michael, Depeche Mode, Jamie Cullum, Michael Jackson, George Duke, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu.
It is so painful not to mention the ones like: Marvin Gaye, Minnie Riperton...Every artist I'm listening to is giving me a lesson and is my inspiration.
- You will also be heading to the UK for some live shows so how excited are you to be getting on the road? And what can we expect from the shows?
I live in the UK for over 2 years now.I found the right people to work with.My band is formed not only with talented but also very cool musicians.
They used to play with Amy Winehouse, Corinne Bailey Rae.They've recorded the soundtrack to Ocean's 11. We all love to play live and we're squeezing the juice out of the gigs. I "molest" the audience until they start having fun with us, sing with us. So far so good;-)
- Finally what's next for you?
After Spider web album is released I'd love to think about the duet song. Maybe with an artist from the UK...Meanwhile the live shows which I'm in love with!
FemaleFirst Helen Earnshaw