Interview: Imani Graham – all the things we never said

23-year-old singer, songwriter, and producer, Imani Graham had been quietly developing her sound from her bedroom in suburban New Jersey.

Discovered via submithub.com

Hi Imani, Where are you based and how does this affect your writing?

Over the last few years, I’ve been based in so many areas, so I think of my music as a melting pot. I grew up in New Jersey, close enough to New York City, where I had access to so many different genres of music. From hip hop to pop, to indie, the unique sounds of each have caught my attention. Going to college in Washington, DC, provided me with diverse experiences that have fueled my creativity when it comes to writing lyrics that relate to the highs and lows of my journey. I love being based in these places because it challenges me to creatively craft lyrics that naturally progress as I navigate each stage of my life.

Congratulations on your new single ‘attwns’. What was the inspiration behind the song?

‘attwns’ comes from personal experience. I like to write everything from my own life and my personal experiences; it’s therapy. I challenged myself on this song to be more honest about what I was feeling at the time, which was nostalgia and wondering about the what if’s. I think that people always think about the things they could’ve said or things that they wanted to say when a friendship or relationship comes to an end, I know I do. With that being said, I wrote this song as a way to acknowledge the role that these feelings played in my life.

Where did you record it?

That’s a funny question! I recorded it in my bedroom in New Jersey. You know, a lot of people think you need to spend hundreds of dollars to record at a fancy studio, but that’s not the case at all.

What inspires you the most right now?

The people around me inspire me the most. I have a fantastic family that continues to support me. I have incredible friends that are doing unbelievable things. They inspire me to be better, but also to be content with where I am.

What’s next for you? Is there more music or any live shows on the way?

I’m trying to be here and take the time to enjoy the present. I’m always working on music, so you should look out for more songs, maybe even an EP. As for live shows, there are some things in the works.