MonicaBlaire
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MonicaBlaire

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The best kept secret in music

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"Blaire It Loud"


Monica Blaire has grown accustomed to the status quo suppressing her. Metro Times' November 2005 music issue even declared her "The best struggling talent who confirms that the music industry is too lazy to concern itself with creativity." But if she's struggled in the past few years to define herself, it's to avoid being defined. By the status quo, that is.



See, the 24-year-old Blaire is a quadruple threat, all hyperbole aside. In an industry where women are often fashioned from cookie-cutters, this woman defies convention as a songwriter, dancer, singer and emcee, writing songs that slither restlessly through hip hop, R&B and even rock 'n' roll. Further, her stage show is nothing nice.

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One definition: Blaire's got Busta Rhymes' combustion, the rugged appeal of Philly soul-stirrer Jaguar Wright and a presence that's all her own. "Oh, I don't know," she says, relaxing amid the chatty bustle of Bastone brewpub in Royal Oak, "I really just do what comes out."



There's a considerable anticipation for her debut solo disc, Portraits of Me, which sees a CD release show this week in Detroit. Blaire is also, you'll note, the frontwoman for the all-female rocktet Lola Valley.



Both the band and solo album come at long last, after a series of setbacks. Blaire had a seemingly sweet deal with PAJAM, the hot-tip Detroit production camp known for its work with 'N Sync, Missy Elliott and gospel sensation J. Moss. But Blaire says PAJAM wanted to use blatant sex appeal and mainstream mimicry to attract fans, and she couldn't bring herself to do it. So she bailed.



"I'm definitely not mad," she says, "'cause it showed me a lot about what to do and what not to do."



What she almost did was get sexy in a Diddy sort of way. And in all fairness, positioning Blaire as the latest diva wouldn't be a stretch for anyone looking for an easy marketing out. She stands about 5 feet 8 inches tall, with a caramel complexion and dancer hips. A Detroit dancer. Keep it real. But Blaire prefers not to reveal all that, because she's more concerned about harnessing the energy that makes Detroit exactly what it is, a fucked-up but beautifully inspirational city.



"There's kind of a sense of hopelessness that happens here amongst the people," she says. "It's one of the things that makes Detroit a great place to make music."



So after she left PAJAM a few years ago, she was disillusioned. She got a job hosting bar mitzvahs, to pay the bills. Then the opportunity to front Lola Valley arose.



"That was a chance for me to kick and punch, but not really hurt anybody," she says. The band instantly turned many heads and by last year it had a respectable following. Blaire was, as they say, back in the saddle.



That's also when she began working with Shaphan "Maestro" Williams' Silent Riot crew. The two had known each another since childhood, and he worked at Guitar Center, a place she frequented. Williams and partners Londell "Diszazta" Williamson, Marv Won of Fat Killahz and Paul "Quarantine" Johnson had also launched a record company.



"I'm not really excited by a lot of musicians," Williams says. "She does stuff that I really wouldn't think to do. You ever heard a song and think like, 'Man, I wish I would've done that!' She's an extension of my music, a missing link."



Williams and Blaire turned out to be missing links in other ways. An intimate relationship developed from the creative one, inspiring Blaire to write and record Portraits of Me in two and a half weeks. It weaves easily through soulful ballads, adrenaline-rushed hip hop and raw lyricism, and should please both underground and mainstream audiences. Platinum producer and D12 member Kon Artist (Denaun Porter) handles the boards for the song "Get Back," The Platinum Pied Pipers' Wajeed also lends production, and the Silent Riot crew covers the rest of the ground. Guests on the album include Detroit faves Miz Korona, Invincible and Guilty Simpson.



And there are declarations in Portraits, statements that summarize Blaire's past while presenting her present and future. "Nah, I ain't confused about what I need to do," she rhymes on "Confused," where she's joined by Korona and Invincible. "I ain't shakin' my ass/I ain't showin' my boobs/If you need all that, then this ain't for you ... You got it confused/I'm not listenin' to you."



Having learned from the PAJAM episode, she's even made some concessions that she once refused, such as opening up to new marketing avenues. Cabarets and churches have become fair game for shows, and hers is the voice listeners now hear singing the interludes on WJLB's Quiet Storm program that airs nightly in the wee hours.



Blaire treats her broadened perspective as part of the learning curve. "In Detroit, the way that you get your music put on is the DJs. Period. You gotta get the DJs to play it. You have to go to the titty bar, the neighborhood bar or block party. The club. The DJs are gonna put you on, where most people think radio is gonna put you on."



Later, Blaire's in her car out front of Bastone blasting tracks from Portraits. She bobs her head furiously as passers-by look sideways, as if they're seeing something weirder than the goth kids gathered in front of Caribou Coffee. Of course, Blaire is oblivious. To acknowledge their looks is to conform to some notion that perhaps she's different. Or maybe she doesn't care. Who knows? But unlike many artists, Monica Blaire's in no rush to give you exactly what you're accustomed to. When you see and hear her, she'll be uncut and raw. And she's betting that, this time, you'll love it.

Khary Kimani Turner is a freelance writer. Send comments to letters@metrotimes.com.
- Metro Times


"Stepping Into Destiny"

STEPPING INTO DESTINY
Written by Danielle Phillips
Monday, 01 January 2007
As MonicaBlaire's voice detonates in the microphone, fans are captivated by her style and funk. Using dope bass lines as her backdrop, MonicaBlaire fuses genres of music together with unique harmony. She combines distinctive chords, singing melisma and staccato.


I remember the first time I heard MonicaBlaire perform. She stepped out on stage and created an atmosphere that had everybody rocking. We allowed the beat to take control of us as she sung musical notes and spit lyrics to her audience. I had that "oh-so-free" feeling; that lovely feeling you get when you go to an old school Hip Hop concert. The crowd moved in sequence and rhythm as we head-banged to What I Want. MonicaBlaire is passionate about her gift and it shows in her performance.

CM: What do you believe is your purpose with your music? Is there a message that is in your heart that you want to get across?
MB: Well my music is multi-purpose. It serves as a release for me to set the things that are on my mind and heart free. One of the things that were really important as far as this album was the concept of the whole person. It was important for me to show, especially young girls, that there is more to a person than meets the eye. I feel that mass media sometimes can be very one-dimensional especially when it comes to women. I want to show that you can be sexy, smart, and you can be loved, not possessed but loved. It’s okay to have something to say and to say it. I wanted this work to show that self-empowerment, as a woman, is necessary.

CM: When did you know this was your calling? Was it always clear for you, or did you have a "valley of decision-rough transition" moment?
MB: I always knew this was my calling. Music has been in me for so long it’s hard for me to go back and remember when music came into my life. I feel like it has always been there. I will say that life has a way of testing your faith in the path you have chosen. Many times I would end up at a dead end or backed in a corner and I would call myself giving up . . . and 2 months later or even 6 months to a year later I would be right back were I started writing and creating music. I couldn’t get away if I wanted to! (lol)

CM: Where does your inspiration for your lyrics come?
MB: Well, ideas come from all around me. Most of the time I look inward for inspiration. The songs on portraits range from fairly personal to deeply intimate. On this album it was very important for the songs to be about me and to come from my experience. Since this is the first time I am releasing my own project I wanted it to be a hands on experience for the listener. I wanted to make a connection with real things, events, and people. What I want is really about being in a situation and falling for someone else. It’s also about truth and how most of the time it doesn’t come in a pretty little package with a bow on top. The truth is gritty and raw and so are the lyrics. That’s where I was so that’s what I wrote.

CM: What are your thoughts on the music industry?
MB: The industry is just that . . . an industry. The point is to make money. They ride on what’s hot and are not really willing to take a chance on something new. They are not willing to take a gamble and with the Internet and the I-pod generation the record companies are really looking for the next way to make money. They are in a situation where the independents as a collective have just as much if not more leverage than the record companies. We live in the D.I.Y. age of recording. Where anyone with an M-Box and a computer can create music. Of course having a major label behind you is one hell of a push. But it doesn’t mean you can’t make it with out them. I feel it is so much more important to have ownership of my music and how it’s marketed than to be with a major. Or you can do it yourself and prove that it works and the major will come to you. Either way the industry has some catching up to do and the Indies have some money to make.

CM: Talk about your latest project. How long did it take to complete. What were some obstacles you faced? Did you ever feel like giving up? If so, what was your inspiration to stay focused? What was your breakthrough moment in this project--meaning when you knew it was going to be successful?
Why the name Portraits of Me?
MB: Portraits of Me’ is a peak into my life and where I was when I wrote it. Each song is a snap shot into my life (Which is why inside the cd you have all the artists portraits of me) and it was one of the easiest things I have ever done. From start to finish it took about 2 1/2 weeks! It just poured out of me like it was just waiting for the right time and opportunity. Towards the end the last few songs where hard to record because I was tired but not because of lack of inspiration. I was (and am) in love and it all shows on this project. It was easy to stay focused because the blueprint was all right there in front of me! I love this music and it has loved me in return!! Now as far as knowing it would be successful, I didn’t. I knew that I was telling my truth and I hoped that people wanted to hear that . . .I’m glad that people want to hear it because for a lot of people it’s their truth too! I don’t have a favorite . . .I have never really been a favorites person because what I like has never been consistent. My favorite changes day-by-day and hourly even. There are songs that I am fonder of than others . . .but no faves. As far as the production, it’s none other than Detroit’s own Silent Riot. Most of the project I worked closely with Shaphan “Maestro” Williams (of Silent Riot) and there is additional prod. From Mr. Porter, Wajeed (of Triple P and WJK), and Stacey “S.O.S.” Owens. Everyone showed love including verses from Guilty Simpson, MarvWon, Mz. Korona, and Invincible!CM: What do you want your audience to hear?MB: I want the audience to hear growth and development. I want them to hear and feel the love and I want them to be inspired to do the same!!CM: What is in the future for you?
MB: Well the future is a strange and wondrous thing! I am currently working on my next project, which is untitled and exciting!!! I am also looking to bring ‘Portraits” to a national and international market late summer and early fall 2007!The wheels are always turning so look for some hot events this upcoming year with MonicaBlaire. We are going to bring back the concert as an experience not just an event. Also keep your eyes and ears open for the triple p album in 2007 with MonicaBlaire as one of the featured artists!

CM: What are some up coming performances? make sure you plug your CD-where we can get it, how much etc.
MB: You can see me December 15th @ the Grand Central Lounge (311 grand river Detroit, Mi) it’s all about Fashion and the Performances! Also you can get the album at Detroit retailers and www.monicablaire.com, www.cdbaby.com, and www.itunes.com!! Check it Out!

CM: In your opinion, what is the state of our 21 century generation? How can who you are and what you do change the negative into the positive?
MB: Well as far as our generation is concerned, I feel that there are some truly innovative young people that are creating new markets and new vision to make things happen. This world is not the same as the world our parents grew up in and I commend all of us for finding a new path. My quest on this journey is to find my way and to nurture my whole person. I don’t have all the answers but I want to ask the hard questions. With my music I can do that. With my music there is truth. That’s what I want to see more of . . . starting with me. - CamouflageMagazine.com


"MonicaBlaire"

Mix a little Silent Riot with a pinch a MonicaBlaire, and you have the most complete independent release since Cash Money Records took over. - Independent Video Box


"The List!"

Monica Blaire

Portraits of Me — Silent Riot

Blaire's debut has the attitude of a sophomore album. It's the best R&B hybrid out of Detroit this year.
- Metro Times Detroit


"Monica Blaire ... Portraits of Me // Record Release Review"

Monica Blaire ... Portraits of Me // Record Release Review
Friday night presented an intresting buzz around Detroit. The weather was perfect, the Lions won their preseaon opener and looked good doing it. Chaka Khan and War performed along with Detroit's own Monica Blaire at Chene Park. It was crazy trying to navigate through the city and for a moment, I felt like I was back in NYC on my way to a party with my girls in the car, music blasting and barely moving due to the overload of people downtown.

We were on our way to Monica Blaire's record release party at 5th Avenue - Detroit. I was excited because hey, it's not too often we get someone who has such an high level of talent that exceeds expectation.

Due to the craziness orchestrated downtown, I missed AYRO's performance. That's ok, I'll catch him tonight down at the Buzz. I was there in enough time to see Hotsauce. Now their energy right off the top was amazing. When was the last time you saw a band full of YOUNG men playing, singing, dancing, kinda reminding you of Earth Wind & Fire? Not only did they have an awesome set, the were Monica Blaire's band. I'd pay to see them play again. I also saw their morning performance on NBC and unfortunately the studio drowned their sound but I enjoyed their energy.

I loved the way this record release was set up. Not only did they give cd's away upon entry, the atmosphere was wonderful. Monica's mom had pictures painted of Monica all over the back of the club along with video images of her on every tv screen in the club. Before she took the stage, her latest music video blasted and was followed by a loud cheer from the crowd. I noticed something different that night, something that rarely happens in the Detroit music scene. You had two different types of crowds merge as one. I look at it as Blaire having an amazing ability to synergize a mixed crowd and open
others up to a soulful kind of sound.

Monica's performance was extremely high enery. It was croweded so I couldn't really get into it like I wanted to but I did enjoy the dancers along with the show. After the first half of the show, she went for a wardrobe change and half of the crowd left or went to other parts of the venue. Upon return, Monica sang until they were ready to throw us out of the club.

I enjoyed the show. I saw old faces I hadn't seen in a while and it was good to see the energy and love from her supporters. Monica pulled everyone she could call out on stage to sing, rhyme or just support her career.

The Soul Divas wish her the best on her path, she definately deserves it.

...my next question is... will she still be down with Lola Valley?

- Soul Divas


"Detroit Artsit to Release Solo Project"

Monica Blaire, a local singer/songwriter, has just released her first solo project entitled “Portraits of Me” on the label Silent Riot Entertainment. Her powerful voice draws attention to lyrics that can change or set a relaxing mood and opens the ears of anyone open to a new era of music.


While listening to “Portraits,” one can visualize some of the lyrics that ring true from Blaire’s past while placing emphasis on her present and future. “Nah, I ain’t confused about what I need to do,” she flows on “Confused.” “I ain’t showin’ my boobs/If you need all that, then this ain’t for you ... You got it confused.”


Blaire wrote and recorded “Portraits of Me” in less than three weeks. Its easy-flowing mix of straightforward lyrics, vocals and groundbreaking raps should ignite all audiences no matter of race, age, etc.. Platinum producer and member of D12 Kon Artist lends a hand on the album, laying some skills down on “Get Back.” Other guests on the album include Invincible, Miz Korona, Marv Won and Guilty Simpson, among others,


Blaire, 24, is offering her own definition of what music is all about, taking creativity to its furthest limits. She has combined her love for the arts, as dancer, emcee, poet, singer and songwriter tp deliver songs that can uplift the listener.


Blaire’s style is sweet and refreshing, with the charm of acts such as Floetry, Common, Musiq and India.Arie, and mixing it with elements that are uniquely her.


She has a long list of writing credits, ranging from Vanessa Williams to Obie Trice. She is more than an artist; she is an experience.
- Michigan Chronicle


Discography

In addition to choreographing, styling, and staging for various artists, her writing credits include Ramiyah, The J Moss project, Vanessa Williams, and numerous R&B up and comings. Firmly rooted in the sound of early soul music and inspired by an unconventional sense of rhyhtm and melodies,

Photos

Feeling a bit camera shy

Bio

From Mozart to Mainstream, eclectic is the way to describe Blaire. From early on this musical retro child has been singing and writing since before she could remember. As a child classical training in the arts helped her to develop skill and a true love for music and its influence. As time passed Hip-Hop became the love of her life and her many musical influences collided to make a truly unique MC/ Singer/ Songwriter Working with Motown greats form Marcus Belgrave, Sylvia Moy, and Ortheia Barnes to modern day movers and shakers Carl Craig and PAJAM this woman is poised for versatility and greatness. In addition to choreographing, styling, and staging for various artists. As for the production that you hear on MB's solo effort, it is none other than Detroit's finest, Silent Riot. Also look for Monica Blaire's upcoming single on the new Platinum Pied Pipers album and a featured spot on the upcoming Jazz Cats Project.