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When I was young girl, I was
completely inspired by Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey. I was fascinated with
their incredible vocal range and effortless versatility. As I got older, I
started listening to Monica, Lauryn Hill, Sarah Vaughan, Donny Hathaway, Chaka
Khan, and Ledisi. I loved their powerful voices and enjoyed listening to their
heartfelt ballads. I'm currently inspired by Jill Scott, Amel Larrieux, Lalah
Hathaway, Kenny Wesley, Deborah Bond and several independent Soul artists.
WHEN DID YOU DECIDE THAT YOU SERIOUSLY
WANTED TO PURSUE A CAREER IN MUSIC?
I decided to seriously pursue a career
in music back in 2005, when I released my EP "Illuminate Love". A
lady sent me a message on MySpace, thanking me for creating
"Struggle". She told me that she was able to finally let go of her
pain and cry. I was extremely moved by her honest words. From then on, I wanted
to create music that brought joy to people's lives. I wanted to inspire people through
my music.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN SINGING?
I have been singing since I was two
years old and performing since I was 12.
WHAT IS A TYPICAL DAY LIKE FOR TRACY
CRUZ?
In the morning, I spend time social
networking and doing some online music promotions. I also answer emails, record
radio drops, and set up interviews. During the afternoon, I spend time with my
children, run errands, clean, cook, and practice (singing, writing, and
performing). At night, I spend time with my husband and children.
WHO HAVE YOU WORKED WITH SO FAR AND
WHO WOULD YOU LIKE TO WORK WITH IN THE FUTURE?
I have worked with my husband Allen
Ross (he is the sole music producer of all my albums). Of course, he is my
favorite music producer! :) I have also
worked with many talented musicians and singers from California such as Kenny
Corso (guitar), Michael Thomas (bass), Kahiel Valenti (guitar), Julian Hoover
(guitar), Brian Braziel (drums), Signatural (Christian Hip Hop artist),
Bernardo Sapitola (trumpet), Lonnye Dotson (R&B vocalist), Yvette Pylant
(R&B/Soul vocalist), Shani Douglas (R&B singer), Anthone Jackson
(R&B singer) and many more. I would love to work with DJ Jazzy Jeff, Jill Scott,
or the Foreign Exchange.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOU MUSIC TO
SOMEONE THAT HASN'T HEARD ANY OF YOUR SONGS?
I would describe my music as
heartfelt, eclectic, and a blend of soulful, electronic, and symphonic sounds.
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE FOR PEOPLE TO GET
FROM YOUR MUSIC?
I want my music to touch the core of
their hearts. I want them to be moved by the lyrics and sounds. I want them to
be able to listen to it and get inspired, dance, cry, laugh, shout, sing, and
celebrate. I just want to make people happy through my music! ;)
WHATS THAT ONE SONG THAT WHEN YOU HEAR
IT YOU STILL GET CHILLS?
I always get chills whenever I hear
"Make Me Whole" by Amel Larrieux. Her voice is incredibly beautiful
and soothing and her lyrics are poetic and passionate.
LIKE WHAT YOU READ? YOU CAN CONTACT
TRACY CRUZ AT
