Last month Kendra released her new single “Gemini” co-written by Kendra & Chris Garcia (Lana Del Rey, Dua Lipa, Katey Perry, Dido, Demi Lavato) and produced by Chris Garcia with with BuzzMusic to kick off the Gemini season . This single follows the success of her recently released singles “Song Of Hope”, “So Fly” and “Avalanche” which have racked up more than a 1.5 million views combined on YouTube (more info below). “Gemini” and recent single “Pure Love” are definitely more of a taste of Kendra’s Dance routes than her last two single releases. Brining Kendra’s sound back to the success she had with hit single “Break the Wheel” that peaked in the Top Ten on the Billboard Dance Chart which was Kendra’s fifth track to do so, following her 2019 #1 hit single “Self-Control!”
Please take a moment and give us some background info about becoming an artist?
I began in classical training, being that since I was originally tone deaf, this training laid a great foundation for me to build upon. That was all whilst I was involved in community and school theatre. I won and was a finalist at a few talent competitions in the area during my middle and high school days. Throughout high school and college, I continued gigging locally at bars, lounges, and venues singing American songbook type tunes, such as Frank Sinatra, Billie Holiday, and other jazz and pop tunes to cater to the patron crowds of each establishment. But, during all of that, I was low key pursuing a songwriting and recording passageway, by working with different songwriters and producers in Miami, New York, Nashville, and Los Angeles. Each song and look evolved with who I was at that particular time. From bubble gum, to a jazzy persona, to an EDM and dance floor super power on Billboard, to crossing over into power ballads, and now getting back into being that dance floor super power, but with more of a knowing and harnessing of my skills and voice.
How would you describe your music in three words?
Not industry standard.
Is there a moment or memory in your life as a musician that you always want to hold onto? Or a moment that has taught you a lot?
The one moment I can think of that represents what I stand for, is that when I was in a meeting with Rick Nowels with a previous manager, he basically told me that who I am and the dance floor sound I have created; works, and I should keep going with who I am and not change anything. Looking back, that carried alot of weight because as an artist, an industry should never try to mold you into a standard. It is the industry’s job to embrace the breath of fresh air, and find a place, where that breath can grow and become enhanced.
What was the inspiration behind your new single Gemini
The inspiration, honestly, happened on the fly. When Chris Garcia and I were jamming out to the track in the studio, we both started singing the word “gemini” with the same melodic intent. So, that was just confirmation for us to move forward with this concept – since we both were a “pair” with a very similar idea.
Tell us about the recording process behind the song
It went smoothly. I’ve worked with Chris before on another song we did a couple years ago, so it was all peas and carrots.
Tell us about co-writing with Chris Garcia
No drama, very calm, and we made a great song!
How did Chris Garcia influence the production of the single.
He did a wonderful job on piecing and gelling my vocals to mesh with the track, and to complement with the harmonies and ad libs.
You feel like you’re heading more in a dance direction.
Yes, in a direction that is more dance and deep house focused.
What sign are you in the zodiac and how does that affect your music.
I’m a Leo, but my moon sign is Gemini, so creatively, there is duality, and then some.
Why are Grammy award winning producers anxious to work with you.
I believe because somehow they know when they work with me, it’s gonna feel like the Rat Pack’s in the room.
What is the biggest struggle for you as a musician at the moment?
There’s just a lot of shit I gotta say, but the world isn’t ready for it yet.
Is there anyone you would like to collaborate with in particular?
I’d love to work with Michael Buble, Josh Groban, or Andrea Bocelli.
What is it about music that makes you feel passionate?
It’s the easiest way to convey and impact people, so I’m passionate about instilling a moral compass and a sense of independent thought back into the people through my music, and to allow them to feel something again.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of music?
I play golf, I work out, I like to take long walks, and I love traveling.
Any fun facts or hidden talents you would like to share?
I had a phobia of dogs till the age of 12. I’m double jointed in my fingers. I’m a savant when remembering birthdays. And, I love the supernatural.
Final comments or shout-outs?
You can find me on IG @kendraerika Facebook at KendraErikaMusic Twitter @KendraErika and Tik Tok @kendraerika
