Vita ChambersAt the age of just 16, Vita Chambers was signed up to Universal Records, and it was from that moment that her journey into the music industry truly began.
With her eyes set on the prize of cracking the UK, she has high hopes for her future, and we got the chance to put some questions to the rising star about her past, present and what's coming next.
Tell us a little bit about your upbringing in Barbados and how you were first introduced to music.
Growing up in Barbados was magical. There was a lot of freedom and the island is my playground. My parents loved music and I was constantly surrounded by it. I lived by the lyrics of Queen and Tina Turner.
How did it feel to be signed by a major label aged just 16?
It was a dream come true. There are really no words.
At 17 you supported Justin Bieber on tour - how was that experience?
It all happened so quickly, I had to just hold on, remain calm and savour every moment. However, it was such a tease. After that I definitely knew that I never wanted to anything else.
How would you describe yourself as an artist?
I’m a Gemini, so it varies, but I am very honest when I speak through my music and I have felt every lyric that you hear in my songs.
Would you say there's still a double standard in the industry when it comes to gender?
Honestly, no. I feel more now than ever gender is irrelevant. It’s all about the music and what you have to say.
How difficult is it to break out as a female artist?
Many people in this industry run to the first thing that grabs attention, "sex sells" and it’s very easy to get forced down that path, with empty words and old men telling you how to walk, talk, dress, sing. But I have realized that never lasts. You have to be true to yourself however long it may take or how ever hard it might be. My role models growing up were Sophia Loren, Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe. Yes, that were sexy but they were powerful and when they walked into the room they had a presence. I believe if you can’t convince yourself of who you are, how can you convince others?
What advice would you have for others who want to go down a similar career path to your own?
Don't do it! I’m joking. I love what I do with every ounce of my being, but this is a tough and testing industry. If you can't imagine doing anything else and you want it for the right reasons, I say go for it and give it all you got.
Tell us a little about your new double a-side 'Fix You'/'What If'.
I think releasing these two songs at the same time is a good introduction to me. Both are very dear to me. One shows my darker side and the other my care free side.
How important is it to be unique in this industry?
Its everything, there can’t be two of one thing.
Do you have any other projects in the pipeline you can share some details about?
I'm touring in Asia this spring and I will be releasing some more songs and a few more things, but they are a surprise. However, if you follow me on Twitter and Instagram (@vitachambers) I sometimes slip!
Vita Chambers' double a-side is available now.