23 year old singer Bria Anai Johnson shocks with her breathtaking and powerful performance. Hailing from Decatur, "Where it's always greater" Georgia, Bria shows up and shows out in our latest God Is Dope Live Performance.
Bria Anai's powerful vocals compliment her cover of Natural Woman" by Aretha Franklin and her soulfully sung original track "C.H.A.T.". She is accompanied by talented and seasoned professional pianist Keyth Lee.
Would you interpret your skills as a gift from God or a learned talent?
Bria: I'd say my talent is both a gift from God and a learned talent. According to my mom, I've been singing since before I could talk. You weren't entirely sure what I was saying but you knew the song from the melody. Music has always been in my heart. However, I also consider it to be a learned talent because I've been training my whole life. I went to a performing arts school from elementary to high school.When I wasn't training at school, I trained with StarHouse Entertainers, a talent development company.
What genre would you classify your music as?
Bria: I think my music is a mixture of R&B, Soul, and Pop.
How were you introduced into your love of music?
Bria: When I was 7, I would take my mom's CDs. Listening to artists like Destiny's Child, Whitney Houston, Brandy, Mariah Carey, and Beyonce is where I fell in love with RnB. I'd sit in my room with my radio on maximum volume and study the pictures and lyrics inside the cover. That's where it solidified for me that I wanted to be a successful entertainer. If I could work with anyone it would be Beyonce, Bruno Mars, and Teyana Taylor. I honestly think we would make some great music. Beyond the music, the knowledge and insight I could get from them would be even better!
What emotions do you hope to invoke with your music?
Bria: When I write my music, I write from personal experience or observation. So when people hear my music, I want them to feel like I took a peek into your life. It has to feel like I'm calling you out! I want it to feel THAT relatable.
What is your creative process like?
Bria: My creative process when I'm recording involves a lot of zen. It starts with no shoes, comfortable lights, and ginger tea. That helps me relax and get in the zone. The rest of the process involves a whole lot of singing. You've got to try everything to find the right thing.
What project(s) are you currently working on?
Bria: Recently, I released my hit single Crush available everywhere! It's a fun upbeat 80s vibe to get you grooving. You should definitely check it out! I have a new single "Pull Up" coming out at the end of October. I'm also currently working on my debut EP, Love Factor, set to release at the beginning of the new year.
