[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Check out our interview with neo-soul singer/songwriter Brenzy who just released her latest single “slow you down”.
Brenzy has been writing music since she was eleven years old taking inspiration from legendary performers like Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, and Bruno Mars. She realized singing was her passion during a church camp performance at age 8. Even while being so young, she recalls feeling like her life had changed the moment she stepped off stage.
In her work today, Brenzy finds herself pulling inspiration from classic funk sounds and R&B to form her neo-soul approach. Brenzy has numerous releases grossing over 400k streams on Spotify.
Follow Brenzy @_brenzy
Hi Brenzy, please tell us a little about you?
Hello!! I’m an R&B/Pop singer, songwriter, and musician from Virginia, and I’m currently located and working in Los Angeles. I’ve been surrounded by music since before I can remember, and it’s one of the biggest parts of who I am. I sang on stage by myself for the first time when I was 8 years old and have dedicated my life to it ever since.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Fun-loving, hardworking, and loyal.
We’re sure you have been asked this million times but how did you get in the industry?
I got into the industry through a domino effect of someone who knew someone, who knew someone, etc., etc. The force that initiated the domino effect was actually my dad being the amazing human being that he is and going out of his way to find a job for an old work friend of his. That work friend ended up being so grateful to my dad that he went out of his way to connect my dad to somebody that worked in entertainment in D.C., and from there I met a producer, who knew a vocal coach, who knew a manager, who then knew a continued long line of someone who knew someone. It all started with a selfless act of kindness!
How has this changed your life?
In every way you could ever imagine. I was homeschooled for most of high school, had to grow up really fast, and moved away from most of my family when I was 15. Being so far away from them is still something that I have trouble with, but they’re so supportive of my dreams and I’m blessed that I get to see them more than just during the holidays.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Soulful, raw, and a little groovy.
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
My parents were actually in bands together when I was a little kid. I was always around music, and I fell in love with it when I was a toddler. My dad taught me how to play guitar, and my mom would let me sing back-up vocals sometimes. Everything sort of naturally happened from there; it just feels like music has always been a part of me.
Do you play any instrument?
Yes! I play guitar and piano. I really want to learn how to play bass, too.
Do you ever get nervous?
All the time, sometimes for no reason at all.
Tell us about your new single “Slow You Down?”
This song is a little different from what I’ve done before, but I love it. It’s very raw and I wrote from a place that I don’t get in touch with very often, so I think it’s going to introduce a new side of me to my listeners.
What’s the story behind the song?
“slow you down” is the based on the story of when I found out I was cheated on in my past relationship, but only long after the relationship ended for other reasons. Always having that sneaking suspicion that something was going on behind your back, but never any proof or reason to bring it up. The song is written kind of sarcastically, but with some anger and confidence in there as well.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
Being told that my music has helped someone when they needed it. Whether it’s bringing that person joy from a super fun and upbeat song or making someone feel like they aren’t alone from a more personal, maybe sad song, it really is the best feeling to know that my music is serving the purpose that I create it for.
What would say are the greatest lessons you learned so far?
That absolutely everything happens for a reason.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
I would definitely tell her to not get so caught up in what people think of her. My younger self spent a lot of time and energy on pleasing everyone around her and ignoring her own happiness, and I think it set her back from being her best self for a while.
How would your best friend describe you?
Probably goofy, caring, and passionate.
What’s next for Brenzy in 2022?
Music, music, music! And some visuals to go along with it.
What is your favorite healthy food?
I love fruit and pickles. Definitely not at the same time, but a fan nonetheless.
And your favorite cheat food?
There’s a spot in L.A. called Cookie Dough Dreams that makes edible cookie dough, and that’s always my go-to.
How would you explain your fashion style?
It changes from time to time, but I’ve always loved 90’s and early 2000’s inspired looks and a bit of a mix of “girly” and tomboy looks. I love earth tones, and the tiny top/baggy pants combo is undefeated in my book.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Being surrounded by the people I love, being close to God, and finding joy in the littlest parts of life.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Michael Jackson. I would love to pick his brain on songwriting, performing, his work ethic, all of it.
What would be the dream holiday, and who would you go with?
Italy with my parents, brothers, and sister-in-law. And maybe my dog if I could sneak her on the plane.
Do you support any charity?
Yes! I’ve been most involved with Hope of The Valley based in L.A. and ASPCA.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
Hopefully on stage and headlining a tour.
Favorite song? Why?
Superstition by Stevie Wonder. It was the song that made me fall in love with music. That bass line hits the soul.
What do you think of Social Media?
I have mixed feelings on social media. My favorite part is that I get to share all of my music on there and stay connected to my fans and listeners. It absolutely has its perks and trust me I spend a lot of time on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, but a detox is definitely needed from time to time though.
Where we can follow you?
Instagram: @_brenzy
Twitter: @brenzymusic
TikTok: @_brenzy
Movie: Mean Girls
Tv Series: The Office
Favorite Food: Anything made of sugar and bread
Travel Destination: Italy or Greece
Photo credit: Leo Cabal[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
