Discovered by multi-platinum producer (and now ex-husband) James Earley [MC Hammer, En Vogue], veteran R&B singer and dancer, B Angie B, who hails from Morton, Mississippi, first rose to prominence as a backing vocalist for Hammer during the late eighties into the early nineties. It’s been quite a journey since. We caught up with the industry veteran to talk about her latest moves and what her career evolution has looked like over the years. Dive into it all with our B Angie B interview.
Following her work with MC Hammer, Angie would then go on to appear on Oaktown’s 3.5.7.’s standout selection, “Juicy Gotcha Krazy,” before unleashing her very own self-titled Bust It / Capitol Records debut in April 1991.
Fueled by the lead single, “I Don’t Want to Lose Your Love,” a sterling update of The Emotions’ classic, B Angie B debuted at number 11 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs charts. Other notable compositions include; “So Much Love” and the Rufus & Chaka Khan staple, “Sweet Thing.”
B Angie B Interview
Parlé Mag: First things first, let’s hop right into this long overdue new offering, “It’s You” — Tell me about this particular track; how did it even come to fruition?
B Angie B: “It’s You” is a single that I recorded about 2 years ago. I was in the studio with James Worthy, and we wanted to come up with something not only soulful, but a record that would show my vocal range since my hiatus. The song talks about the feeling you get when you’re with someone worth the time, and how to cherish that.
Parlé Mag: How does “It’s You” compare to previous B Angie B entries?
B Angie B: It has been a while since I have released an R&B/Soul record, as most would classify me in the dance genre. I think this one gives people a side, and sound of me they haven’t heard, but also showcases me as a songwriter.
Parlé Mag: “It’s You” is a Humble Sound Records’ release — What particular string of events actually led to your initial linking up with James Worthy and his newly established imprint?
B Angie B: James is such an amazing musician, songwriter, and artist. We have been working together for quite some time, so this was really overdue for us to release something new. He also formed his own label imprint, which I thought everything should be in house, which gave us much room to create, and do things our way without other opinions in the way.
Parlé Mag: As a songwriter, when you sit down to pen your lyrics where do you draw your inspiration from?
B Angie B: In a short answer, just life experiences. We all go through things, but in love there are so many things you can talk about that come from a real place.
Parlé Mag: Why such a lengthy delay between records?
B Angie B: Living life, traveling, and family. Making sure I am taking care of myself, before giving myself to the world.
Parlé Mag: That said, it’s been awhile since the masses last heard from you — What have you been up to, both personally and professionally speaking, during your lengthy musical hiatus?
B Angie B: I’ve traveled all over. Most recently it has been South Africa, which is a beautiful place. I’ve been working on new music, business ventures, and taking care of my family.
Parlé Mag: How have you evolved since your whole inception into music?
B Angie B: I think as you get older your maturity, mindset, and creativity evolves into what you need it to be. I’ve grown much stronger, smarter, and patient in the process of music.
Parlé Mag: On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of R&B?
B Angie B: I like the new music that’s coming out these days. Artists are more creative than they ever have been, but of course there are always some in the shuffle that aren’t that good. Overall, I enjoy finding new voices.
Parlé Mag: What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?
B Angie B: Consistency, and continuing to love the craft.
Parlé Mag: To date, what has been your biggest career moment?
B Angie B: My debut album.
Parlé Mag: Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?
B Angie B: Owning more properties, more ventures, a new album, and retiring well!
Parlé Mag: As for the immediate, what’s next for you, Angie?
B Angie B: More singles on the way, videos, content, and announcements to come!
Parlé Mag: Any “closing” thoughts for our readers?
B Angie B: Follow me: @bangieb4real.
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