[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”27067″ img_size=”large”][vc_column_text]Check our interview with talented Los Angeles-based pop/soul songstress Khadia Handon who is a former backup singer for Prince, Imagine Dragons, & Mya, and who has teamed up with 6 seasoned musicians to form the jaw-dropping, ear worm LA supergroup Soul Rising. The band, comprised of 7 unique musicians spanning different ages, genders, nationalities, cultural backgrounds, religions and sexual orientations has a sound that illustrates their uncompromising originality, with versatility and empowerment oozing out of every track.
Khadia sensational sultry voice has also been showcased on national television including “X-Factor,” “American Idol,” the American Music Awards and more.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”27068″ img_size=”large”][vc_column_text]Describe yourself in 3 words.
Fun, hard worker, Boss.
When was it that you first realized that you wanted to pursue music as a career?
I’ve known since elementary school that I wanted to sing. I started pursuing it as a career in High School and College.
Did your family support this decision?
Yes, always.
What is your musical background?
I have trained vocal and stage performance at the North Carolina School of Arts, the Philadelphia School of Arts, the Levine School of Music, and with Robert Christie.
Tell us a little about your music career?
I have been afforded many opportunities such as performing around the world singing background vocals for Grammy Award winning recording artist, Mya. I have shared the stage with the legendary Run DMC, sang back-up for pop icon Prince at the legendary Indigo nightclub in London, Janelle Monae, Jon B and Imagine Dragons to name a few. I’m also a contracted vocalist and member of SAG/AFTRA and have performed on “American Idol,” “X-Factor,” “The Queen Latifa Show,” “American Music Awards” and more.
What kind of music do you listen normally?
Rock, Alternative.
Tell us about Soul Rising’s new video “Not The One?”
It’s edgy, sexy, fun and rugged. It’s a good teaser into our musical world, but yet it doesn’t scratch the surface for what’s to come.
How was working with big names like Prince, Imagine Dragons, and Mya?
Exciting and surreal. I learned what it takes to be an artist.
Who are your musical influences?
Pink, Paramore, Anita Baker.
What is your next goal as a musician?
Doing an international tour performing our new music.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Peace of mind and being in spiritual and mental alignment.
What are a few things you can’t live without?
Food, my family and my hair products.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Pain and fear are temporary, success is forever.
Do you get nervous before a performance?
Yes, always.
What is next for Khadia Handon in 2019?
Releasing our newest single, “Not the One” and our follow up single…TBA.
Any advice for up and coming singers?
Keep going. It’s a game of outlasting the competition.
If you weren’t singing, what would you be doing?
I would be a teacher or an archeologist.
What is something people don’t know about you?
I’m a rapper and I write, edit and act in comedy sketches on Instagram (@oficiallykhadia)
What would be your dream vacation, and whom would you go with?
Fiji Island-with my future husband.
If you could meet someone living or dead, whom would it be and why?
Anita Baker-I want to pick her brain about vocal health and how she remained so consistently amazing throughout her entire career.
What is your favorite healthy food?
Spinach salad.
And your favorite cheat food?
Popeyes.
What would be a deal-breaker on a first date?
If a guy asks me to pay or split the bill. I’ll entertain their interest for a little while after, but I have already written them off as someone I wouldn’t take seriously or date for much longer.
What project is still on your bucket list?
Touring the world performing my original music. Winning a Grammy!
What is your idea of the perfect Sunday?
Hanging with friends in any capacity, drinking a few cocktails and just exploring and hanging out in Los Angeles.
What causes/charities do you support?
I support research for congenital cataracts. I plan to start an organization that supports emotionally disturbed children mentally, spiritually and financially. I have sung for churches in Soweto, South Africa. I also have helped build libraries and donated clothes and toys to several orphanages.
What does fashion mean to you?
Something that compliments your body and makes you feel good.
How would you explain your fashion style?
Rocked out!
How important is social media for you?
Very!
Where we can follow you?
Follow Soul Rising on social media!
Facebook: @soulrisingband
Instagram: @soulrisingband
Twitter: @soulrisingband
Follow me on Instagram! @OfficiallyKhadia
Favorite Quote: Pain and fear are temporary, success is forever
Favorite Actor/Actress: Leslie Mann
Favorite Drink: Tequila shots
Favorite City: Silver Spring in Maryland
Favorite Movie: Eve’s Bayou
Favorite Sports Team: None
Favorite Song: “Before I Let You Go” – Blackstreet[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text]Photo Credit: Mirae Kim[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
