Meet Kessey Monae | Singer, Songwriter and Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kessey Monae and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kessey, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I have been singing since I was a little girl. Music is all I’ve known so it’s been my passion ever since I could remember. My dad was a blues singer formerly known as Soul Blaque. I vividly remember his late nights working in the home studio and falling asleep listening to syncopated rhythms. I was in my first talent show at the age of six. The feeling and sensation I got from being on stage helped me determine what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. In the years to come, I would go on to sing for several functions at school, churches, musicals, galas, and athletic games. I graduated with a AA Arts Degree in Voice/ Performing Arts with a focus in the genres of Opera and Classical. Music became a way of life for me, without it I wouldn’t be the person I am. Singing isn’t a hobby for me or a job. My passion for singing comes deep within my soul, mind, and heart.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I know I was put on this earth to impact people whether it be by singing, acting, speaking and etc. I have now released two projects this year and I couldn’t be prouder of myself. I was set apart from others when I was born. The sonification of my DNA is filled with a melodic complex instrument that no one but me would understand. I would not consider my journey easy or a smooth road so to speak. I have had many obstacles in life where I questioned my purpose and in a way tested my faith. Not to go into much detail, I’ve been abused, molested, and raped. There were times were I felt as if life would be better without me in it. The only thing that kept me sane was music. I decided right then that I would do something with my life and I would make a mark on this world. The trauma would also lead me to become an advocate for children. I make sure I find a way to give back every year. Most times I sponsor the children’s shelter I was in as a way to thank them for making me feel safe. The year I graduated high school, I had a life-threatening car accident. I died but was able to be resuscitated back to life. The accident aftermath caused minor scratches, I could barely walk and I shattered my two front teeth. Despite losing teeth, I still had my life. That was also a big epiphany that ignited my fire to follow my dreams. I know I had angels protecting, guiding, and giving me strength to keep going every single day.

These days I cry a lot of happy tears when I think of what I thought my life would be like. I went from feeling unimportant to people paying to see me sing. The feeling overwhelms me with so much joy. I simply just want the world to know that anything is possible. I am a product of my environment but not in a negative light. If I can do it, they can.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
First off-lol! If you come to Mississippi you are going to love the southern cuisine. It doesn’t matter what day we go but we have to go to Johnny T’s for brunch.
The Brunch Spots for the week also include Iron Horse Grill, Another Broken Egg, The Manship, Capitol Grill, and Trio.
Of course, we’re going to have to get bottomless mimosas.
The best part is we can also eat dinner at these places too but we must go to Godfrey’s.
I love going to M-bar and dancing until my feet get tired, but the one thing we are going to do is karaoke.
There are several places we can go for that in the city, too many to name, but since we have a week we’ll be able to hit them all up.
Just know we’re going to eat well, sing and dance.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’m very thankful for the tribe I have in my life who helps me carry out most of my shenanigans. My husband, recording artist Brady C. Smart, is my rock that makes sure things seen and unseen stay afloat. I have one of the best producers in the world, TonyT The Producer. My team JBAP management keeps me motivated. I’m thankful for Marvin Blackmon of Blackmon Graphics and Jarion Smith of Custom Trinkets who always take care of my graphic needs as an artist. Thank you to my brother who handles my sound and engineering among other essential needs, Kewane Latiker. To Jabrieka Thornton of Cosette Productions, who is my choreographer for most of my works and appearances, thank you for being my right hand. My styling team Alexandria Smith and Moriah Goss make sure I stay presentable. My aunt who owns CLR Creations sows and designs my clothes to perfection. Thank you, Sandra Rawls, Choir Director of First Presbyterian Church of Canton, for always believing in me. To Benford Edwards thank you for becoming a mentor and family to me. Lastly, thank my crew Zarina, Ayonna, Sasha, Raven, Rachel, Aaliyah, Destiny, Cece, Kaitlin, Kim, Anastasia, and Deonna who always make sure I know how valued I am. I would be nothing without these people and more, who I won’t list because it would take all day.

Website: http://www.Kesseymonae.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kessey_mo

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Adorable_KBoo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lakesiasmithsmart

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@kesseymonae

Other: https://music.apple.com/artist/1663087812

Image Credits
Tray Shades Photography Chad Barnes Photography