LA. Born Soul Recording Artist, H'Atina Believes That Staying Relevant Is The Key To Success!

 Interview By: Gina Sedman

Tell me a little bit about your background. Where are you from and how did you get started in music?  Born and raised in Los Angeles, California. I have been dancing and performing since the age of 5. I have always loved music. But my love of singing started when I graduated middle school. I was always told I had a great voice, but I never took it seriously. Well, my mother found an arts High School that I had to audition to get in, Los Angeles County High School for the Arts. Instead of dancing, I decided to audition for vocal music and was accepted. Since then, music has become my life.

What is your vocal range?  I have a pretty broad range. I am an alto, but I can go from alto to soprano, or alto to tenor.

When did your professional career begin and how did it happen?  After I graduated from High School I began performing in local venues with live bands. I was even in a couple of groups for a short time. But I released my first EP in 2002 and I would perform for private events.

What challenges do you encounter having your independent label? Having to do everything yourself, and fund everything yourself. Doing what you need to do to stay relevant.

In your opinion, what does it take to “make it” in this business? It depends on what your definition of “make it” means. Some people are happy with just performing live and building their fanbase, while others may be happy with writing, producing, and releasing music. But whatever the goal, it takes determination, consistency, and never giving up!

In your opinion, what are the best and worst parts of being an independent artist?  As with anything in life, there are good and bad parts. It's all about making the most of it. No matter what bruises or scars you suffer along the way, learn from them. And celebrate your triumphs and accomplishments.

Have you ever released a song that you really thought would be a major success, but it didn’t do as well as you expected? Tell me about an experience you had like that.  I think releasing music is always a gamble. You never really know how folks are going to receive it. Therefore, every project I tackle is one I hope and pray will succeed. Sometimes I will allow my superfans to preview a release before it comes out, which helps give me an idea of how it could go.

Do you have a daytime job or is music your full-time job?  I have a full-time job.

How important is it that your friends and family support your music by purchasing and downloading your single? How crucial is their support for the success of your career?  My family and friends are some of my best supporters. My Dad is my biggest fan, and both my parents are huge supporters of my musical journey. Having their support means a lot and keeps me going.

What is your opinion about the concept of likes and dislikes on a social media post about an artist? Do you think that's an accurate assessment of the artist's worth, talent, and abilities?  There will always be people who don’t like what you do. Artists' worth should not be determined by social media likes and dislikes.

What have people who have heard your music said about your vocal style that sets you apart from other vocalists? I have been told that I sound like Chaka Khan or Angie Stone. But also, that my voice is unique.

If you can speak to your fans from your heart and tell them one important thing that you want them to know about being an independent artist, what would it be?  I want you to continue to go on this musical journey with me.

What advice would you give to new artists entering the changing industry? Stay humble, be consistent, and Don’t Quit! Just keep going. Also, learn as much about the business as you can.

If you can speak to DJs from your heart and tell them one important thing that you want them to know about being an independent artist, what would it be?  Independent artists cannot succeed without their support. I truly appreciate them spinning my music and sharing my music with their listeners. Their support means a great deal to me.

How would you describe your music to those who have never heard it before? Smooth and unapologetically soulful. It’s R&B with a hint of smooth jazz and soul.

Do you write and produce your music?  I work with various producers, and I write their tracks. I love writing songs.

As an independent artist, what is it like? Share your heart with our readers. Being an independent artist means taking a leap of faith and believing in yourself. It’s about not being afraid to be your authentic self. It means putting in a LOT of work on your own, without a huge team behind you. It’s about finding your way, making your way. I truly love what I do. Performing, writing, influencing, all of it! And being an independent artist, you get to see your music, your fanbase, your business, and yourself grow.

How do you prepare yourself mentally for public opinion (either positive or negative) when you’re preparing for a new song release?  I realize that my music and lyrics will resonate with the right people. Staying positive and trying to understand any negative opinions about my music is my goal. I know not everyone will love what I do, and I’m okay with that.

Have you ever felt so discouraged in this business, for whatever reason, that you just wanted to throw in the towel? You'll always face moments in this business when you hear a lot of no's or encounter roadblocks. Have I ever felt frustrated? Sure. But, getting so discouraged that I want to give up? No. Not at all. I love what I do. I have been blessed with an amazing gift and I believe I should be sharing it. I want to share it.

How many singles/albums do you have out presently and what is your favorite album/song to date? I have quite a few singles and 3 EPs. My favorite? Oh, that’s hard, but if I had to choose, I would say “Authentically Me” because of the groove and the message.

Tell me about your latest album/ song and what was your inspiration behind it.  Is it out now and where can people buy it? My new single is “Be Mine”, written by me and produced by SOKI. SOKI reached out to me from Greece. He found me on Instagram, and he loved my voice. Said he had a few tracks that he thought I would love. Well, he was right. When I heard this one, I fell in love. And it made me think of happiness and love and just made me want to dance. The song is about love, a growing friendship, knowing what you are and who you want, and making it happen. Released February 11, 2022, and it’s available on all media platforms: hatina.hearnow.com/be-mine.

If music had a cell phone, how much time would it take to eat a hamburger in a pool while swimming in orange juice? I am at a major loss here. LOL! Swimming in OJ?

 www.hatinasmuzick.com

END OF INTERVIEW