The Evolution of Imade: From Dream to Musical Reality

From Chicago Roots to Musical Aspirations

Imade, a rising R&B artist from Chicago, blends her multicultural heritage and musical influences to create a unique sound that’s resonating with listeners across the globe. Born to a Nigerian father, Imade has the rich cultural backdrop of Nigeria interwoven with the urban tapestry of Chicago, which shaped her musical aspirations. This compelling blend is evident in her approach to music and her artistic persona.

“I’m a big Michael Jackson fan growing up, when I was a kid,” Imade shared, reflecting on her early influences. Like many artists, her journey began with admiration for a musical icon, but her path was also intricately tied to her Nigerian name, which translates to “I did not fail.” This meaning fosters a sense of resilience and determination, embodying her artistic journey and the music she creates.

Despite being born and raised in Chicago, with her father’s Yoruba and Benin influences, she faced the common creative challenge of balancing multiple identities, “A lot of people think that I come from the Yoruba tribe, but my name is actually a Benin name, another tribe in Nigeria,” Imade clarified. This deeper understanding of her heritage enriches her music, giving it depth and authenticity.

The Path to Breaking Writer’s Block and Creating an EP

Writer’s block is a daunting challenge for any artist, but for Imade, it was a catalyst for creativity. **”I was having writer’s block for a long time,”** she admitted, pointing out a pivotal moment when she sought help from fellow artist Upstairs. Their collaboration sparked the creation of “Something New,” a track that showcases her introspective and soulful R\&B style. **”He helped…I wanted to talk about something different,”** she recounted, indicating her desire to evolve her music beyond typical themes of heartache and resilience.

Imade’s journey is a testament to the importance of collaboration. By working with producers like Tone Jones and engaging in different musical environments, she was able to produce her first EP, **“All the songs in my EP were just songs that I was writing to get myself out of writer’s block,” she explained. This process underscores a vital lesson for creatives: sometimes the act of creating, even in the face of obstacles, can lead to unexpected and fulfilling results.

Recording the EP at Troy Taylor’s house added an element of unpredictability and excitement to the process. “I did all the vocal production and all the recording out of Troy Taylor’s house,”** she shared with a sense of accomplishment. This experience not only boosted her confidence but also cemented her status as a capable and versatile artist.

Networking, Collaborations, and Learning in the Music Industry

Networking is an essential aspect of any career, and for musicians, it can open doors to new opportunities and creative collaborations. Imade emphasizes this through her experiences working with various producers. “Right now I’m working with a lot of local producers that live here in Minnesota,” she shared. Her collaborations extend beyond geographical boundaries, having worked with Major 88 in Atlanta and utilizing tracks from Grammy award-winning producer Tone Jones.

“The producer of [‘Something New’] is Tone Jones,” she noted, highlighting the importance of robust collaborations in her musical journey. For Imade, networking is not just about professional gain but about learning and growing as an artist. “I would love to get into…writing for other people,” she revealed, expressing a desire to continue expanding her creative horizons.

Her exploration into writing for others signifies a maturity and willingness to diversify her skills. By potentially following in the footsteps of artists like Neo, who successfully transition between performing and songwriting for others, Imade seeks to enrich the R\&B genre.

Shah Cypha’s recommendation to connect with entities like Jay Hatch’s collaborative platforms could further propel her career. “I’ll point you to him. You can do your research on it,” he advised, suggesting an avenue for sustained growth and innovation in her music career.

Recapping Imade’s Journey and Insights

Imade’s story is one of perseverance, cultural richness, and collaborative spirit. From dealing with writer’s block to producing her first EP, her journey encapsulates the essence of determination and artistic evolution. The transition from a Michael Jackson-inspired childhood to becoming an R\&B artist conveys the transformative power of music and personal growth.

Her advice for overcoming fear and embracing opportunities can resonate with anyone pursuing their passions. “I got tired of being a punk,” she stated boldly, emphasizing the importance of pushing past self-imposed limits. Her narrative also highlights the significance of collaboration and networking in realizing one’s artistic vision.

In conclusion, Imade’s path serves as an inspiring blueprint for aspiring artists. Her blend of cultural influences, dedication to R&B, and strategic collaborations position her as a noteworthy artist to watch. As she continues to evolve, her journey offers valuable insights into the resilience and creativity needed to thrive in the music industry.