Photo by Mianna Charles
Before she could even walk, R&B songstress Camille Safiya traveled the world on feminist and civil rights crusades with her mother. In her music, she blends a plethora of these multicultural influences with her love of abstract painting, creating a fresh new sound. Recently featured on VIBE’s “26 Acts You Should Be Listening To,” we spoke with the New Jersey-based singer about her activism, playing major festivals like NXNE and the Boston Urban Music Festival, and her favorite things about being a Sonicbids artist.
You were recently in Ferguson, MO, and got involved in the protests. What made you decide to join the cause?
I learned of the events in Ferguson through social media. I became enraged after seeing a picture of an eight-year-old boy injured from a tear-gas canister hitting him in the chest. After seeing everything, I felt that I needed to make my way down there. I hitched a ride with a few strangers that I met through Twitter. It was one of the best decisions in my life.
Have you always written about world issues?
I grew up as an activist following in my parents' footsteps. My mother was and still is active in the Dominican community. My father has always been involved with human rights issues. It's part of who I am, and it's evident in my music.
How has your writing style evolved over time?
My writing style evolves as each day and new experiences pass. Working with different genres of music and different sounds has forced me to become diverse in my writing style. Working with different producers like Frankie P, Crystal Caines, and Al'Tarba, to name a few, has given me the ability to write all kinds of music. I am still refining my sound and continue to work on versatility in my writing.
Your new EP, 24K, drops soon. What was the progression from your previous album, Island Blues, to 24K like?
There's a huge progression from Island Blues to the music that will be released on 24K. This project is my best music so far, even though 24K was in the works before any Island Blues songs were recorded. It's an extremely diverse project with a unique sound. It's a reflection of me – my 24 karat gold.
You got the opportunity to play NXNE and the Boston Urban Music Festival through Sonicbids. What were those experiences like for you?
Those festivals were an amazing experience. NXNE was my first show outside of the US, and Toronto was a great crowd. Performing in a festival of that magnitude was incredible. The Boston Urban Music Festival was a beautiful introduction to the city of Boston. These festivals make you appreciate the opportunity to make music and share it with the masses.
What are your favorite things about being a Sonicbids artist?
Sonicbids has been a great help to my team and me. They've facilitated opportunities for us that have helped increase awareness of our movement. I would like to thank the Sonicbids team again for believing in my vision.
For more info on Camille and her upcoming album, follow her on Twitter and Facebook.
