Emerging Singer-songwriter Monieo accredits his love of music from artists such as Chris Brown, Mario, and Trey Songz. His debut single "Gone Over You" is available on all digital music streaming services via Incisive Entertainment with an EP project to follow.
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TERRANCE: First, introduce us to where you're from and when you realized your passion for music.
MONIEO: I'm Devonte Brooks a.k.a. Monieo. I'm an artist, singer, and songwriter originating from Baltimore, Maryland.
I realized my passion for music at a very young age. I would listen to the radio and watch music videos. That's when I found my passion for music.
TERRANCE: Growing up who were some of your musical influences?
MONIEO: Some of my musical influences growing up was of course Michael Jackson. He was the total package. Then you have artists such as Usher, Babyface, Chris Brown, Mario and Dru Hill. The two latter artist are Baltimore natives. I have to show love to both of them. They put Baltimore on the map as it relates to music.
TERRANCE: How does Monieo stand apart musically from what's out there?
MONIEO: By staying true to myself. Crafting music has to come from a genuine place. If you try to fake it, your audience will pick up on it. With there being so many options of music to choose from, I want them to select me because my music is organic, they can relate to it, and feel my sincerity.
TERRANCE: In three words how would you describe your sound?
MONIEO: I would describe my sound as enticing, versatile, dynamic.
TERRANCE: How did you hook up with Incisive Entertainment for your debut single "Gone Over You"?
MONIEO: Great question. I was introduced to Incisive Entertainment by a mutual friend of mine. He knew the VP of Talent for Incisive Entertainment named Ed Tate. He (Ed Tate) arranged a meeting with the CEO of Incisive and the rest is history. Also, Incisive Entertainment has a growing buzz around Baltimore as a good company. Working with them has exceeded my expectations. I get to make the music that I want to make, and they allow you to grow as an artist. That's how "Gone Over You" was born. After the first initial meeting, we went to the studio and recorded a hit song. They have a great team over there. The future looks very promising.
TERRANCE: Talk about the backstory behind the single and how it was conceived?
MONIEO: An amazing songwriter and artist from the DMV area named "Fall Son" actually wrote the song. The production and a few ideas were presented to him (Fall Son) and "Gone Over You" is what you hear today.
The concept of "Gone Over You" is about a guy who continues to put his relationship in jeopardy by doing stupid things. He's explaining to his Queen that things will be different, and she need to hang in there with him. I love the idea of men being vulnerable for their lady and not degrading them. This is what I spoke about earlier in regard to teamwork. The music, lyrics, and vocals are a perfect fit.
TERRANCE: How does it prepare listeners for your forthcoming EP?
MONIEO: It's a prelude of what's to come. Each song will have a different vibe. I will bridge the gap as far as genre and listeners are concerned. This EP will have something for everybody.
TERRANCE: What can we expect as far as content and collaborators?
MONIEO: Well, as far as content is concerned, you can expect my songs to make you happy, make you dance, fall in love, and refreshing. You will definitely get a look inside of my life and what's going on.
When it comes to collaborators, I want to keep it simple this time around. I will introduce my audieonce to new producers and songwriters. Other than that, I want you to get to know who Monieo is as an artist.
TERRANCE: How would you describe your songwriting process?
MONIEO: The songwriting process is quite simple. We find production that has a certain vibe/feel to it and the writing process begins. Depending on my mood at the time, I may write a song myself or work with others that I collaborate with. Once the song is finished, it's presented to Incisive Entertainment and we decide which way to go from there.
TERRANCE: What are your top 5 essential R&B albums?
MONIEO: Ok. In no particular order, my 5 essential R&B albums are;
Michael Jackson - "Thriller"
Dru Hill - "Enter the Dru"
Babyface - "Tender Lover"
Usher - "Confessions"
Chris Brown - "F.A.M.E."
TERRANCE: What's your favorite era of R&B?
MONIEO: My favorite era of R&B would be late 90's/early 2000's. During those times, you had a lot of good records out there.
TERRANCE: In the next 5 years, where do you see yourself as an artist?
MONIEO: In the next 5 years, I see myself still making music of course. I also would like to develop talent from Baltimore such as Atlanta did in the early 90's. Supporting your own is very important to me. I believe success comes with unity.
TERRANCE: Any final words you would like to share?
MONIEO: I would like to thank you (RnB Junkie) for providing this platform for me. I really appreciate it. I also would like to thank everyone that has supported me and my endeavors thus far. I won't disappoint you. Last but not least, I want to thank Incisive Entertainment. They believed in my talent and for that, I'm grateful. You can follow me on social media @ https://www.instagram.com/officialmonieo / https://www.instagram.com/incisiveentertainment.
This was a great interview. Take care, stay safe and continue to support Monieo, Incisive Entertainment and RnB Junkie.
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