Check out our interview with talented R&B artist Cashma who just dropped her new album, Purple Apartment. Centered around love, the release features silky, soulful vocals, shimmering synths and vibey, hypnotic melodies.
Cashma’s new album Purple Apartment is the result of having her own place to live authentically and to focus and craft her music. Cashma confides, “I’m very introverted so having my own space has always been really important to me. My home is my world. It’s where I party, relax, feel safe, laugh, cry, cook, enjoy my friends, do business and overall where I’ve built my brand. I wanted this project to feel the way I do when I’m in my space, a getaway from the noises of the world. A little piece of heaven.”
Working alongside producer Mike Kalombo Purple Apartment is coated with a nostalgic 80’s flair. Silky, soulful vocals, shimmering synths and vibey, hypnotic melodies provide the foundations for the album, with Cashma showcasing her velvet vocal tone and ability to pen indulgent R&B anthems.
Follow Cashma @Iamcashma
Hi Cashma, please tell us a little about you?
I’m a singer, songwriter and overall creative.
I was born in a small town Barnesville, GA as the only child to my mom and dad. Growing up introverted I found my voice and confidence through music. Since I’ve released three album and have created a world to be boldly myself in.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Introspective, Introverted, Creative
How did you get started in the business?
I met Mike Kalombo the CEO of the label I’m with and producer of my entire discography in 2017. I hadn’t really released a lot up until that point. From there we started creating vibes in the studio and releasing art that felt true. Since then I’ve learned a lot about music making and also how it’s just as important to be knowledgeable about the business side of things. Being an artist it’s easy to get lost in the art but by also knowing about business you’re able to be your own boss and really advocate for yourself when it’s time to speak up.
How has this changed your life?
Drastically. Before releasing music I was just recording ideas on my voice memo app. I used to wonder how I would be able to afford a beat let alone a whole discography of work that was mine. I had a brain full of ideas and worries about how I would make them come to light. Meeting Mike Kalombo in 2017 was the game changer for me. He believed in me 100% and was willing to build something beautiful.
We’re sure you have been asked this million times but how did you get in the industry?
I like to say I’m not in the industry. I just make art and release it for those who like it . Outside of that I like to stay in my world. I find my happiness in the unfamiliar places.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Whatever, I, Like
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
Being from a small town and the only child forced me to look within. You get creative about your interest and music is what I found through self reflection . I love Sade. I can play the band all day long.
Do you play any instrument?
Yes. I play guitar and a little piano. I’m an electric lover but acoustic is classic. I’m fairly a beginner but I’m loving the learning process.
Do you ever get nervous?
Not so much anymore. I feel I’ve gotten a lot better speaking to my body over the years and have created a space where I’m comfortable. Of course it happens now and then but I like to be at ease.
Tell us about your new album “Purple Apartment”?
I moved into my first apartment last year March 7th. I spent that whole year making music about what I felt during that period of being on my own for the first time. I decided to call the album “Purple Apartment” and release it on the year anniversary of my move in date. It’s 80’s inspired sprinkled with synths and nostalgia.
What’s the story behind the songs in the album?
I unravel stories from my own life, such as “My First Apartment” which touches on the mixed emotions of being alone for the first time and “I Dress For Me” which speaks about dismissing other people’s judgemental attitudes. Overall it’s about love of self, life and the moment.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
Love this question. I think creating it. I’m a creative so the process is always where my first love will be.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
I actually don’t read much books. I think the best book is life and the experiences you go through.
What would you say are the greatest lessons you learned so far?
Not being afraid to say no. Not all opportunities are good ones. Protecting my body, my peace of mind and my ideals are important me. So passing up things that aren’t for me has become easy.
What do you think is the secret to have a successful IG account?
Authenticity. Being yourself is better than any follower count because being yourself is where the real success is.
As a popular artist and influencer you are followed by so many people. How do you feel about that pressure of doing always the right thing, and encourage people to follow their dreams?
I don’t feel the pressure to always do the right thing because right has many definitions depending on who you ask. I instead do what feels good to me as long as it’s not hurting people I think that’s the way. Getting caught up in people pleasing is exhausting.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
“It’ll all work out.” because she needed to hear that.
How would your best friend describe you?
Probably silly and caring.
If you are a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
The Introspective Introvert. I think this describes me.
What’s next for Cashma in 2022?
Falling more in love with life. I’ve been romanticizing my experiences lately and I’m really happy with the woman I’m becoming.
What is your favorite healthy food?
I love a good salad.
And your favorite cheat food?
Apple Pie with ice cream
How would you explain your fashion style?
I like things that feel like me. That’s why in my song “I Dress For Me” I wrote “Might just wear a tee, might just wear sweats, might just wear a dress. Whatever suits me best.”
What is your own definition of happiness?
Being myself and hanging out with the ones I love, writing and learning guitar as of now.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
That is a good question that I don’t have an answer for lol. I think I’m happy with where I am right now not meeting anyone.
Best advice ever given?
Do it your way. You don’t have to be like everyone else.
Do you support any charity?
Yes , as of recently it’s UNICEF In Ukraine that’s helping provide children with water, medicine and mental health services. I think it’s beautiful what they’re doing.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
I see myself still doing what I love. Making music I enjoy and loving the simple things.
Favorite song? Why?
Right now it’s “Body Love” by me and “The Sweetest Taboo” by Sade. I enjoy the good vibes on these records.
What do you think of Social Media?
I think being able to connect with people that resonate with the art is special. I also think too much of anything is not good.
Where we can follow you?
Apple Music: Cashma
Spotify: Cashma
YouTube: Cashma
Instagram: @Iamcashma
Facebook: @iamcashma
Twitter: Iamcashma
Website: Cashmamusic.com
Quote: “When you’re winning keep, working like you’re losing” – Mike Kalombo
Movie: Back To The Future
Tv Series: Stranger Things
Favorite Food: Anything I cook
Travel Destination: My Apartment
Photo credit: Mike Kalombo
