Interview: Bria Cheri

Congratulations on the release of your new single "On 2 the Next"; tell us about your creative process for writing the song and how you connected with producer William Lockwood.

Thank you! The concept of the song stemmed from how difficult dating in this generation has become. Everyone has their own expectations, intentions, and most times it never amounts to anything substantial.

So, I wrote this song for people who don’t just want to accept settling for someone they don’t feel is for them just for the sake of being in a relationship. Go on to the next person until you find the best person for you.

I connected with William through my uncle, who has been in the industry for quite some time. He introduced me to him and from there, I gave him ideas of specific music I was looking to make, and he started sending me beats. When I heard the beat for “On 2 The Next” I was blown away with how unique it was. I knew I had to write on that track.

Is "On 2 the Next" based on a personal experience?

Yes, it is. As a young woman I’ve had my fair share of dating experiences. Through those times, I’ve come to the realization that you must keep optimistic and believe you will connect with the right person when the time is right. So, I drew from the emotions I went through when making this song.

Will “On 2 the Next” be featured on an upcoming EP or album? If so, what can you tell us about the project?

It will be featured on my upcoming debut album. I’m currently in the process of recording the project as we speak.

With this project, I want to bring an element of fun back to R&B and give people a view into my world.

You've mentioned that your musical influences are Aaliyah and Chaka Khan; what about them inspires your artistically?

Aaliyah was and still is my favorite artist to this day. She was the one that inspired me to pursue music growing up. Aaliyah had a clear vision for herself artistically and wasn’t afraid to take chances. I remember seeing her on TV being in awe of her work. She had the full package and exuded confidence, was cool and did so with grace. It’s similar to how I approach my life in and outside of music.

Chaka Khan is another artist I fell in love with as a child while listening to her music with my Nana. I loved how Chaka utilized her voice to emote through the soulful tracks she was on. That alone inspires me to dig deep and pull those emotions out when singing.

You are not just a music creator but an actress and dancer as well. Tell us about these ventures and how you manage to juggle everything.

Well, the dancing is incorporated into music videos or live performances. The acting aspect is another part of what I aspire to do as I evolve in the industry. I’ve done a few features in smaller productions for independent films, but I would love to one day have more opportunities to grow as an actress.

Time management is important, and I pace myself to focus on one thing at a time.

Listen to “On 2 the Next” on: Bandcamp

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