Exclusive Interview with Queen Diamond

Artist Spotlight: Queen Diamond

Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering their work, this Q&A offers a rare look into the mind and heart of Queen Diamond.

MusicsWeek: Can you tell us about your journey into the music industry and what inspired you to become an artist?

Queen Diamond: I loved music as a child as I learned at an early age how music can change your mood and depending on the sound determined it would make me, happy, excited, make me want to dance, bring peace, encourage me or make me remember something that happened to me.  I grew up singing in the choir, chorus in school, the ensemble and being with friends singing in the public. As life changed instead of me pursuing I encouraged my children who are artists. Only 3 of them have recorded.  But they all sing, rap, and dance.  After a couple of life threatening scares in my life I started back writing and positioned my way into the music industry by doing what was necessary to accomplish making music.
 
MusicsWeek: How would you describe your unique sound and musical style?

Queen Diamond: My sound is hip hoppish with a r & b feel. But I have different sounds.  I have a poetic pop sound as well with some soul. I believe I can do any type of music.
 
MusicsWeek: What are the main themes or messages you aim to convey through your music?

Queen Diamond: Self growth, career and entrepreneurial development, life lessons that are pleasure and painful, motivating, self exploration and celebrating yourself, and educating purpose while having fun.
 
MusicsWeek: Can you walk us through your creative process when writing and producing new songs?

Queen Diamond: Everyone is different. I could ne dealing with any situation and hear a song in my head and I stop what I am doing and put the notes in my journal or my phone. Then I begin to arrange it. I research a beat or find someone to make me a beat. When I hear the right sound for the song I practice the song with the beat until it sounds appealing. Sometimes I hear a beat first and then I hear the song within me and I write it. When I’m ready I go in the studio and let it rip! Sometimes it comes to me differently when I get in the studio and I may change it up or add to it or take something away. My creativity becomes more relevant when the mic is to my lips and the music is playing.  I begin nervous and then I lose myself in the music.
 
MusicsWeek: Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your artistry?

Queen Diamond: Growing up I was mesmerized by gospel artists like Yolanda Adams, Mary Mary, Kirk Franklin, and the Clarke Sisters then in the secular arena it was Michael Jackson that became the first influence, Queen Latifah will forever be an icon, Whitney Houston was my heart, Mary J. Blige is who I truly admire, Mariah Carey vocals was amazing to me, New Edition was everything, Chris Brown is an icon forever, Jay Z, Snoop, and the legend TuPac are true to my heart. It’s many others that are influences that I love.  I also adore Kenny Rogers music and Paul McCartney and many others. But they stand out for various reasons.
 
MusicsWeek: What has been your most memorable performance or moment in your music career so far?

Queen Diamond: Performing two of my new released songs on the yacht in Miami with people I never met, family, and friends. I will never forget that moment.
 
MusicsWeek: How do you handle the challenges and pressures that come with being a musician?

Queen Diamond: I use my time wisely and manage what is prioritizing. Beyond that I take mental breaks to keep me focused. Everything is challenging when you are doing anything to become better and the more you do the more challenges and pressures come. I tell myself everyday you are built to keep going no matter what you face. There are always options or a different way to make whatever needs to happen become a reality. I face my challenges and I do not run away and the pressure makes me push harder.
 
MusicsWeek: Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you're excited about?

Queen Diamond: Yes! I have a couple of collaborations coming with one of the legends of Southern Players who were Platinum Artists and an Artist called Kings Kid who has been in the industry who had opened up for other Artists such as Trina and Trick Daddy.
 
MusicsWeek: How do you connect with your fans and build your community around your music?

Queen Diamond: I connect with my fans on Social Media platforms, internet radio, publications and performing to local venues.
 
MusicsWeek: What advice would you give to aspiring artists trying to break into the industry?

Queen Diamond: Know who you are and understand your worth and be willing to grow and learn. Stay humble but be firm on business. Have fun but learn the business side before signing any documents. Get all your business in order! Be FIT FOR BUSINESS and you can be FIT FOR THE MUSIC INDUSTRY!