Mariama Whyte has been perfecting her craft for years. Fusing multiple genres including reggae, jazz and hip-hop with R&B, she provides listeners with a style of refreshing creative music that’s all her own.
When did you start performing?
I caught the performance bug when I was nine years and haven’t stopped since. Professionally, I’ve been singing and acting a little over 20 years.
Name some of the artists who have inspired or influenced you?
Growing up, I was highly influenced by Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, Bob Marley, Michael Jackson, Prince, and Babyface. They still inspire me. India Arie, Mary J. Blige, Emeli Sande, Lauryn Hill, Alicia Keys, Jill Scott, and Alice Smith are some of the artists I consistently connect with and keep on my playlists.
How would you describe your style?
My foundation is R&B/soul but I merge other elements like reggae, jazz, hip-hop and pop/rock into my sound. I embrace and incorporate all of my sonic influences to create a unique and rich experience for listeners. As a vocalist, I play around with my range. I enjoy singing a big soul ballad as much as I do an intimate, acoustic tune or an up-tempo dance song. I write directly from my heart – about my personal experiences and what I hope for in the world.
What separates you from other artists?
I use all of my life and performance experiences to inform my artistry. I’m not only a recording artist, but I’m an actor, a musical theatre artist, and an author. I’m all about good storytelling. I love writing and performing catchy, radio friendly songs as well as more theatrical and cinematic music. I’m very intentional about my message. Music literally transforms people and I make it not just to entertain, but to elevate, heal, and inspire my audience.
Name some of the major artists you have performed with?
I’ve performed with world-renowned producer and composer David Foster. That was literally a dream come true. I also performed with Michelle Williams in the original Broadway National Tour of The Color Purple. That was a great tour. I’ve had the pleasure of opening for Stephanie Mills, Jeff Bradshaw, Algebra Blessett, Rahsaan Patterson, and the Soul Rebels.
Do you have any major offers on the table?
I’ve been primarily focused on building my business as an independent artist while staying open to partnership opportunities and collaborations. I’m excited about the connections and relationships I’m building to be featured in more publications, blogs, and other media platforms.
What advice would you offer other aspiring artists?
My advice for aspiring artists is to take a moment to truly know and understand the value of your gifts and talents. Affirm yourself and your dreams everyday. Write down your vision. Write your mission statement. It takes a lot of time and energy to create music, perform, build a team and a career. But when you’re centered in who you are, it makes it easier to know which opportunities to create, pursue, and accept as well as which ones to pass on. It also keeps you from being too disappointed when you have setbacks because they will come. Allow your setbacks to build you up instead of tear you down. Always believe in yourself no matter what!
Any shout outs?
I want to give a special thank you to Be’n Original and Urban Magazine for this opportunity to be featured. I truly appreciate it. Much love to my family, friends and fans. Be sure to check out my music on all digital platforms and stay tuned for my new single coming out in May and my new full length album, Hey You It’s Me, this summer! www.mariamawhyte.com
Be’n Original
