YolanDa BrownAs one of the biggest and most exciting jazz talents to come from the UK, YolanDa Brown has already achieved a lot including two MOBO Awards.
Female First got the opportunity to put some questions to YolanDa about her early beginnings, touring and much more.
Has jazz music always been a passion of yours?
I would say that making music has always been a passion of mine. From a young age I loved how you could make music based on your feelings or what mood you want to create. Jazz in particular allows you to improvise and create music for that moment. I love how a song might never be played the same way twice. It became a very therapeutic process for me and I find it amazing that this is now what I do as a career!
What is it about music that you love?
Music speaks to everyone. I see it as a universal language and I love that I can play a song anywhere in the world and be able to speak to the listener, even if we don’t speak the same language. The same goes for making music, it’s an enjoyable way to have a conversation. No matter where people have come from they can come together to make music.
You're also the UK's premier saxophonist - how did that talent start off?
I started playing the piano at the age of 6 and then went on to play the violin and the drums. I asked to play the saxophone when I was 13 and found the instrument for me! I loved how soulful the instrument sounds and playing it allowed me to express myself freely. I loved to play for myself in my room and it wasn’t until later that I understood the joys of playing to an audience.
As the winner of two MOBO Awards, what prize have you got your eye on next?
The ultimate prize would be a Grammy! To be recognised for my music on that scale would be very rewarding and humbling… I guess we should keep watching this space.
You recently teamed with the University of East London to create a music award, why did you decide to kick off this project?
I believe it is important to give back and that I shouldn’t have to wait to be a multi-millionaire to do so. To be able to start a fund that helps to support music students in their transition to a career in the music industry felt like a great place to start. I would have loved to have had access to that kind of support at University and so I felt the urge to do so as the first project of the Yolanda Brown Foundation.
What should people coming to your tour dates this year or next expect from your show?
They can expect a show that take them on a musical journey. Even though the Saxophone is based in Jazz we mix in a range of genres including Reggae and Soul. I love to interact with the audience and so I make sure that everyone is involved and along for the ride!
Do you enjoy touring?
Touring is, for me, the best part about being a musician and making music! I love being on the stage and making music for the moment. It is wonderful to see different places and meet different audiences. It is also important to get an idea of what the listener likes to hear and try out new material, especially when writing for an album.
YolanDa Brown
What would you say have been some of your favourite moments of your career so far?
There are so many moments that I have enjoyed. Some favourites include touring with the Temptations, meeting the Queen and lobbying for music education at the Houses of Parliament. I find it amazing that music has taken me to so many places, both inside and outside the music industry. It has also allowed me to follow my dream of being a racing driver and also be a guest at the Formula 1 racing and play for Ron Denis at his birthday party.
You're now a mother so how do you find balancing your working and home life?
It works really well. I am able to bring my daughter on tour and also have time at home between appearances. I love being a Mum and am so glad that I have a profession that allows me to spend lots of time with her. She also loves music which is a big bonus!
Do you think motherhood has changed you?
Motherhood is amazing and I don’t think it’s possible to be the same once a baby is in your life. You learn even more about unconditional love and what it feels like to have an overwhelming feeling of Joy. I feel very blessed to be a mother and wouldn’t change it for the world.
Are there any other projects in the pipeline you can share some details about?
I am currently in the process of writing my next album and looking forward to getting back into the studio.
YolanDa soon embarks on a nationwide tour – visit www.yolandabrown.co.uk for more information.
Check out YolanDa's US diary below.