R&B powerhouse Arika Kane visited “Jake’s Take” to have “A Conversation” about her music and her latest studio album: “Thru The Veil.” (Album artwork courtesy of #ArtistUnited Magazine)
By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com
It is a privilege to welcome R&B singer-songwriter Arika Kane to Jake’s Take!
When I first heard sing her single, “Waiting,” and her tribute to the late Aaliyah’s “Rock the Boat,” I was hypnotized by the BSE Recordings Artist’s beautiful vocals.
Ms. Kane’s music has been featured on a plethora of TV shows such as Atlanta Exes, Basketball Wives, Hollywood Exes and Love & Hip-Hop. In addition, she has also performed alongside several R&B icons such as Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Brian McKnight and Charlie Wilson!
Recently, Ms. Kane celebrated the release of her third studio album: Thru The Veil! The album broke into the Top 10 Best Selling Pop Albums and earned the top slot of Amazon’s Hot New R&B Releases.
In this edition of A Conversation, Ms. Kane shared her thoughts on her opportunities to work with music legends, her latest single: “Make It” and her goals for 2015.
Jacob Elyachar: When did you get interested in music? How did that passion evolve into the desire of having a career in the music world?
Arika Kane: Music has touched my soul since my mother and her close friends, who I call my “aunties” sang beautiful harmonies in my ear as a child. My passion for pursuing a career evolved in my late teens, when I saw many young women chasing their dream of music. Basically, I also could not see myself doing anything else or being happy without doing what I love.
JE: How long does it take you to compose a track? What are some of the challenges that you face during the creative process?
AK: It varies with each song, the more organic and quickly it flows usually the better the end results are. Perfectionism is always my biggest challenge. Trying to constantly fix something can get exhausting especially when you finally realize that it can work either way because that is the beauty of art!
Arika Kane’s songs have been featured on multiple shows on VH1! (Album artwork property of #ArtistsUnited Magazine)
JE: Your music has been featured on several VH1 shows including “Basketball Wives” & “Love & Hip-Hop.” What goes through your mind when producers call you to ask your permission to use your track on their shows?
AK: It is an overwhelming feeling because to have a show feature or have your song as their theme song on television is a major compliment to the music! Having my music heard every week by viewers everywhere is the icing on my cake. (Smiles)
JE: I would like to talk about your song: “Make It.” The song was featured on both “Hollywood Exes” & “Atlanta Exes.” What was the message behind this song? Is there a lesson that the listener should take away from it?
AK: “Make It” is a special song because it was my personal story at that point in my career. The message is to follow the path of your heart, while also embracing the obstacles that test you and re-think them as challenges that build your character.
JE: You have worked with several music legends including Brian McKnight, Babyface & Charlie Wilson. What lessons did you learn from them that helped you grow as a singer and performer?
AK: I learned more about embracing my craft and growth that comes along with being an artist and a performer; and how to more fully bring that to the stage.
Arika’s dreams came true when she collaborated with one of musical idols: Brian McKnight. (Album artwork courtesy of #ArtistsUnited Magazine)
JE: Who are your dream collaborators? Why would they be a perfect match for you as a singer and a songwriter?
AK: Brian McKnight was always one! (Smiles) I have always respected Justin Timberlake’s career because he always keeps his music career about the music and that is why it would be a great match, it is all about the music with me also.
JE: What are some of your goals for 2015? What steps are you willing to take to accomplish them?
AK: My goals for the next year include to tour supporting my new album: Thru The Veil. I hope to have a couple stops in the states and go on a European tour. You can stay posted on my upcoming tour dates on my official website: arikakane.com. Also, I want to look for, develop, produce and work with new artists in the near future!
JE: If you had a chance to meet with aspiring singer-songwriters who want to enter the music industry, what advice would you share with them?
AK: Learn the ins & outs of the music industry. Knowledge is always power for the artist! Creating a strong digital and Internet presence is very helpful. Make sure your protected in all your work!
You can connect with Arika on social media! Visit her Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube pages!
