Meet The Performers: Tracey Phipps
No matter how far she went, she was always drawn to music. Tracey is an independent artist, singer, songwriter, and learning audio engineer at Asylum Studios in Orlando. Her sound is that a mix of R&B inspiration with a flare of 90s. She is a soprano singer and is inspired by artists like Alicia Keys, HER, Jhene Aiko, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Corrine B. Rae, Esperanza Spalding, and more. It was in NYC that she grew her passion to create music and released her first single EMPIRE. Her single Higher opened doors for her to collaborate with other artists and share stages with legends like Wintley Phipps, Cicely Tyson, and most recently collaborated with Gospel Jazz legend, Ben Tankard. She recently released her newest song Selfishh and has an upcoming single Without Me scheduled to release March 5th.
Tracey Phipps will be bringing her harmonious vocals to Fusion's I Heart R&B concert. Tracey's single Selfishh is a sweet ballad on how it may be hard to love her because she puts herself first, but she found real love. Tracey describes her sound as bright and sultry; get to know her more from our mini Q&A below!
♡ Where did your fascination for music begin?
As a child, I used to sing in church with my 2 sisters. We were known as the "Phipps Sisters" and we traveled across the East Coast with my mother who was a missionary and preacher. As time passed on, we all went our separate ways but the music was always very close to me. Eventually, in college, I started to find ways to find my sound and work with musicians. Over time, my passion continued to grow. listening to artists like Beyonce and Alicia Keys growing up really inspired me.
♡ How would you describe your sound?
My tone is described as bright and sultry with a flare of 90s. I am known for my unique harmonic arrangements and airy falsetto. I use my voice as an instrument to take the listener on an immersive and euphoric journey. I like to take my time sonically to carry my listeners through my dreamy experiences, pushing their aspirations and driving hope.
♡ What does R&B mean to you?
R&B is a genre that allows me to fully express myself lyrically and allows me to take my time sonically to convey a message while connecting with people. It's smooth enough to allow strong vocal delivery and also fun enough for dancing. R&B is a genre that brings people together, allows love to flourish, heals, and connects people emotionally.
♡ Zodiac sign?
Aries. I am very stubborn and focused, strong-willed and creative. I am also a twin and she is also very creative.
♡ Any advice to local artists/first-time performers?
Believe in yourself, surround yourself with people who will be honest with you and won't stand by and watch you fail. Do not try to be an artist alone, that's now how it works. Build a team and don't be afraid to let others in on your creativity. Write with people, sit in with producers and be open to collaborating. Most importantly, invest in yourself. Quality sound will require funding, so don't be afraid to ask for help and shoot straight to avoid losing money in the long run.
♡ 2021, what’s next for you as an artist?
This year I am working on releasing an EP and collaborating a lot more than I did in the past with producers and writers to help me fine-tune my sound.
Keep up with Tracey and her music on Instagram @traceyphipps
-Jasmine Pollard