Adrian Smith
Join us as we delve into Monifa Goss's journey, from her musical influences to her aspirations for the future.
With the release of her latest EP, 'Eve,' Monifa Goss reflects on this monumental milestone in her burgeoning career. In this exclusive interview, she candidly shares insights into her musical influences, creative process, and personal journey as an artist. From her eclectic mix of genres to her unwavering commitment to female empowerment, Monifa offers a glimpse into the inspirations behind her soulful sound and dynamic artistry. Join us as we dive into the world of Monifa Goss and discover the stories behind her captivating music.
Congratulations on the release of your new EP, ‘Eve’. How do you feel about this amazing milestone in your career?
It’s feels amazing to me. This is something I’ll always be able to look back on with a smile on my face.
How have your roots/upbringing shaped the music you like to listen to and play live? What or who were your early passions and influences?
My influences are all over the place. My family really loves music! My mother used to get me up to listen to Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Fantasia, Jazmine Sullivan, Beyoncé, Rihanna and Micheal Jackson. Whilst my sister Kai would have me listen to alot of K Pop and Rock music. Being Jamaican too has helped also with my style because you can’t leave out the culture.
Your journey in the music industry started with recognition in competitions like Digicel Rising Stars. How do you find competing? Can you describe your experiences of performing live and how it differs from recording in the studio?
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Yes I’d state it like that it was the first time I really got exposed to Jamaica. I’m very competitive so I enjoyed it! I’d say there is no difference because you got to give it your all at all times.
How has your artistic vision evolved since then, and what have been the driving forces behind your growth as an artist?
I’ve evolved a lot! Edna Manley helped me with that as well even though I didn’t get to actually graduate. I’d say my mommy, she really has pushed me and spoke a lot of confidence into me. Also my friends they support me to the fullest.
Your style incorporates pop, dancehall, reggae, soul, and trap. How do these diverse influences come together, and could you elaborate how you approach genre-blending in your songwriting and production?
I don’t even know how I mix them. I’m a big fan of these genres and that’s all I’ve heard since being in this world. So I think that’s all that will come from me because that’s what I know. I wanna sing my heart out whilst having banging lyrics and sick flows so that’s how it comes together.
‘Bad Gyal’ is the opening track of your EP, celebrating the original 'Bad Gyal' Eve. How does this song embody female empowerment, and what message do you hope listeners take away from it?
The song 'Bad Gyal' embodies a lot of sensuality and confidence. I hope my GOSSYPERS grasps all of that and more. It’s really about hyping yourself up whilst being sexy and confident enough to walk in a room and become the star.
Granted, we are certainly in an era of female empowerment and freedom but many women working in the music industry say more needs to be done to combat gender and race discrimination. What are your thoughts on this? Have you faced any discrimination within the industry or even when performing?
I’d say I have to thank the women that were before my era. Women in music have really come a long way but we have a long way to go. I’m celebrating what we have now because it took a a lot of effort and time. Now women are stepping out and up and I’m so happy about that.
Two of your tracks in your EP are collaborations - how did these collabs come about and what was the creative process like working together?
Yassssss. The two collaborations on my EP came through Creed Music Global. It was dope. The song with me and Gabra titled 'The One' is extremely beautiful and it’s my first international collab. We couldn’t really get in the studio but I recorded my part first and Gabra just did his magic! The other collab is with Daddy one and it’s titled 'Vibe' and just like what the name suggests it certainly is! I loved the experience from the track to the video shoot. It’s very smooth and easy on the ears and did I say very sensual? It’s all about submission. You guys gotta listen!
The loss of your mom earlier this year must have been challenging. How does this experience shape your determination to pursue your dreams, and how do you carry her influence into your music?
It still is challenging, I actually can’t believe she’s not here anymore. It’s super weird and I’m not really processing it well but I’m here. It definitely pushes me more because she wanted this for me more than anything. I just want to make her proud and make her whole legacy known to the entire world. My mommy used to train me to sing, dance, act and paint - she was the ultimate artist and my biggest influence. Her style and fashion sense also has so much to do with how I carry myself as well. I love my mama so much may her soul rest in peace.
What’s next for Monifa?Â
Only the best things. I just want to go out and do great things back to back and that’s exactly what Monifa Goss is going to do!