In the heart of New York City, amidst the rich tapestry of hip-hop history, emerges a talented R&B artist whose soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics will be leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Taj, a proud native of the Bronx, invites us into her world, revealing the inspirations, lessons, and aspirations that shape her unique musical journey.
As we sit down with Taj, the enchanting female R&B artist, she shares her perspective on growing up in the birthplace of hip-hop. “Being from New York is an inspiration in itself,” Taj remarks with a smile. “Hip-hop originated here, and the city is home to many icons dominating the industry then and now. Although my music is not a direct reflection of my roots, the creative culture here sets a standard that I strive to uphold.”
With an air of excitement, Taj opens up about the intricate workings of her creative process, giving us an intimate look into the world where her musical magic comes to life. “I have a lot of songs in the inventory,” she confesses with a gleam in her eye, a testament to the depth and diversity of her artistic exploration. It’s evident that Taj is not just an artist; she’s a curator, carefully selecting from a reservoir of emotions and melodies.
Her laughter echoes through the conversation, a reflection of the joy she finds in the creative journey. “I like to take my time with it,” she continues, revealing a deliberate and thoughtful approach to her craft. In an era of instant gratification, Taj stands out as an artist who values the process as much as the product.
As she leans forward, the anticipation in her voice is palpable. “I do plan on releasing a single at the end of February 2024,” she announces. It’s a moment to mark on the calendar, a rendezvous with a musical evolution. The excitement Taj feels about this upcoming release is contagious, sparking curiosity about the sonic adventure she is about to embark on.
“It’s a departure from my previous work,” she shares, hinting at a shift in the musical landscape she has previously painted. This revelation is a testament to Taj’s commitment to growth and exploration within her artistry. It’s a bold step into uncharted territory, a testament to her fearlessness in embracing change.
When discussing her artistic influences, Taj’s admiration for Beyoncé becomes evident. “My biggest artistic influence has always been Beyoncé,” she declares. “Her voice is distinctive and unique. She’s her very own force. Beyoncé’s versatility, resilience, and adaptability in this industry inspire me deeply. When I write music, I do so with the hope that someone, years from now, can relate, feel, and heal through the emotions I express. Capturing timeless stories and emotions is the ultimate goal.”
Expressing her love for diverse music, Taj shares, “I would love to collaborate with any artist who complements the essence of the song at hand. Whether it’s Drake, J. Cole, or Fab for a hip-hop & R&B feel, or Davido, Kizz Daniel, or Tems for more of a ‘Naija Hit.'”
On personal growth, Taj reflects, “I don’t really have a favorite song. What interests me the most is how much I’ve grown musically when listening back to the first song I put out in 2020 versus now.”
In a powerful and introspective moment, Taj takes on the concept of success, challenging stereotypes that often permeate the R&B community, especially for female artists. Leaning forward, her voice carries a weight of conviction as she reshapes the narrative around what it means to thrive as a woman in the industry.
“Defining success as a female artist depends on the individual,” Taj asserts, breaking away from the one-size-fits-all expectations that have lingered within the R&B realm. Her emphasis on individuality speaks volumes about her belief in the unique journey each artist undertakes, irrespective of gender.
With a resolute tone, she shares her personal definition of success, one that transcends conventional metrics. “Success to me is meeting my goals, getting the results I desire, and the ongoing cycle of growth.” Taj’s vision of success is a dynamic and evolving process, a continuous journey rather than a destination. It’s a philosophy rooted in the belief that success should be measured against one’s aspirations, not external standards.
As Taj delves deeper into her perspective, she confronts a prevailing misconception in the industry – the association of success with materialism. “There’s a misconception in the industry regarding success, often tied to materialism,” she declares, challenging the prevalent notion that success is solely measured by possessions and outward displays of wealth.
Her words echo a sentiment shared by many female artists who have felt the pressure to conform to societal expectations. Taj dismantles these stereotypes, advocating for a more holistic and authentic approach to success in R&B. “Success in R&B should be about artistic growth and personal fulfillment,” she passionately states, emphasizing the intrinsic value of the creative journey.
As the conversation delves deeper, Taj opens up about the therapeutic aspect of her art. “Art serves as a form of therapy for me as well as entertainment,” she confides. “I’m sure many others who can relate may say the same thing. There is a song for every emotion you may feel, whether it’s heartbreak or celebrating life.”
In the realm of Taj’s music, there lies a profound connection between the artist and her audience. As she continues to evolve and bring her unique feminine sound to the world, Taj stands as a beacon of passion, resilience, and authenticity in the ever-changing landscape of R&B.
As our conversation with Taj unveils the layers of her artistry and the depth of her vision, it becomes clear that she is an artist on the brink of something extraordinary. The upcoming release at the end of February 2024 is not just a single; it’s a testament to Taj’s evolution, a sonic journey that promises to leave an indelible mark on the world of R&B.
To stay in tune with Taj’s musical odyssey, be sure to follow her on Instagram, where the magic unfolds. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the evolution of a soulful storyteller, breaking barriers and challenging perceptions within the R&B landscape. Stay connected, stay inspired, and immerse yourself in the rhythmic enchantment that is Taj’s musical universe.