Maimouna “Mumu Fresh” Youssef is the living definition of the word extraordinary. The Grammy-nominated singer/rapper/activist who has worked alongside a wide range of acts including Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, Bruno Mars and even Billy Ray Cyrus, continues illustrate the boundlessness of true artistry.
You know we have to start with the name. How did you become known as Mumu Fresh?
Well, my actual name is Maimouna Youssef. It was hip hop legend Black Thought of The Roots who gave me the nickname Mumu Fresh when I was teenager. He was a mentor to me even way back then. I consider it an honor to have my talent recognized by someone who is so highly regarded in not only hip-hop but music overall. When you think about it, the name is kind of accurate as I strive to bring something fresh of my own into everything I do.
The list of acts you have worked with is as long as it is diverse, how has it impacted your artistry?
I have been blessed to have worked with a great many artists across genres and I have picked up things from each and every one of them. It could be how they engage with the audience between songs or their breath control. I believe that there is always something you can learn. You just have to be present and attentive. Each of those experiences has made me better as an artist and performer. I will always be grateful for every single opportunity.
I would have to agree. You have a tremendous range of talent and unlike many, you are exceptional in the many things you do including singing, rapping, and acting. With all the things you do great, which is most dear to your heart?
I can honestly say that it is fortunate that I will never have to choose. I am really just being myself and regardless of which form of expression I am engaging in at any moment. I love all the things I do wholeheartedly. I have been very fortunate to have the creative freedom that allows me to choose. If I don’t love something, I don’t have to do it and I won’t. It’s a blessing.
With all the things you do, do you ever feel pressure to conform to whatever is working in mainstream music?
To be honest, there was a time when I explored some of the things that things that were popular in the music, but it never really set right with me. It wasn’t who I am. People will tell you to be yourself, all the while pushing you to be like somewhere else. I am not afraid to admit that I explored some ideas but, in the end, I found being myself is more than good enough. Not to take away from anyone else, but I’m great at being me. Who we are as a people is enough.
How does your new album Queen of Culture differ from your previous bodies of work?
Between each project, you have time to evolve while making changes and adjustments along the way. I wanted to share more parts of me. Queen of Culture is pure soul. It is unapologetic blackness. I am proud of it. I hope it inspires other artists to be themselves.
I admire how you use your various platform to challenge toxic imagery and behaviors within the culture.
I believe that the things we do have consequences. A lot of artists say or do things, but they don’t allow their kids to indulge in them. You know how they say, with great power comes great responsibility. As a parent, I just can’t see myself knowing leading people down the wrong path. It’s not who I am. I care about the people who listen and support my music. I would never want to use my influence to hurt our people. I want to be a force of good for the culture. To me, it’s the very definition of being real.
From the bold and vibrant colors themes on your wardrobe to the elements in your art, you give a unique blend of culture. How did that come about?
I grew up in the streets of Baltimore, but my mother was indigenous. We were not only homeschooled, but we had the chance to travel the world. All of these things make me who I am and set me apart from everyone else. I have experienced a broad range of people, places and cultures and I incorporate that information all in the things I do. One of the benefits of being an independent artist is that I am able to be me and all that means or entails.
Be’n Original
