From The Sunshine State to Music City, Mandy Brooke is determined to make a name for herself in the soul/pop world. She recently dropped her latest EP, “Hammer,” and is ready to start singing her songs all across the United States.
Influenced by a range of artists from Beyonce to Zakk Wylde, Brooke has put together an album that melds pop, soul, and rock styles together. With the talents of producer Kris Bradley and sound engineer Daniel Ford at the helm, “Hammer” was able to really come to life and shine.
Brooke has a roaring voice that will give you goosebumps, and a fierce attitude that demands attention and respect. She puts it all out on the table, leaving her audience hooting and hollering for more. She has lyrics that stick like glue, and you’ll find yourself singing her songs to yourself in the car, the shower, and wherever you may find yourself. Brooke is definitely on the must listen list of upcoming Soul/Pop artists in Nashville.
Music Mecca had the pleasure of catching up with Brooke to get the inside scoop on her latest endeavors, so without further adieu…
Music Mecca: Where did you grow up and how long have you been in Nashville?
Mandy Brooke: I grew up in beautiful New Smyrna Beach, FL. I simply love my hometown and visit very often. I can’t believe I’ve already been living in Nashville for 8 years this June!
MM: What got you into singing and songwriting?
MB: My father, Tige Quimby, really inspired me to pursue music as my career, and in turn, introduced me to artists that influenced my songwriting. I have been singing my whole life, but it wasn’t until Dad taught me to play guitar at age 12 when the fire really ignited inside of me. He also expected nothing but the best, and by brutal honesty, he made me strive to be better. Beyond anyone else, I can always rely on him to tell me the God’s honest truth.
MM: You just released your first EP, “Hammer,” in March. What was the process like, and what did you learn from it?
MB: Recording this EP was one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. My producer, Kris Bradley, and I began the process in January of 2018 where we’d meet at her studio every Wednesday and chip away bit by bit. I would leave her studio feeling so exhilarated! When it came time to record final vocals and mix the project, we went to Daniel Ford at Sound Kitchen Studios in Nashville. I really pushed myself, and with the help of Kris and Dan, I realized all that my voice could do. Throughout the release of my project, I learned I can literally do anything I set my mind to, and that’s a powerful thing.
MM: What was the biggest hurdle in bringing it to fruition?
MB: I don’t think people realize how much work goes into releasing music. I created marketing rollouts for my single, and EP. I also planned and organized the EP Release show with dancers, opening acts, and sponsors among many other things. So many hours were spent in front of the computer, on the phone, and organizing. It was by far the hardest but most empowering thing I’ve ever done. When it was over, I felt like I could lift a car over my head!
MM: I noticed a lot of Rock ‘n’ Roll and Soul influence on your EP. What artists in particular influenced these different aspects?
MB: Beyoncé and Zakk Wylde have consistently been huge influences of mine. I grew up listening to Metal and R&B/Pop, which I credit for my unique sound. In general, I’ve always been drawn to artists with GUTS and attitude. Whether that’s Pantera, Destiny’s Child, or funk goddess Betty Davis- if there’s groove and “tude”, I’m hooked.
MM: What track on the new EP were you most excited for fans to hear and why?
MB: I was most excited for people to hear, “Hammer,” since it was such a departure from what people expected from me. As an artist, I have many many layers, and unapologetic pop is just one of them.
MM: Who are your top local/lesser known artists going into 2019?
MB: I’ve been really loving local artist, DAISHA (@the_rapgirl). Her flows are insane and I’d love to collab with her one day. There’s also a BAD ASS throwback rock group called True Villains (@TrueVillainsNashville) that blow my mind every time I see them live in Nashville.
MM: What’s your favorite part about the Nashville music scene, and the pop scene in particular?
MB: The community. There are so many artists and producers to be inspired by. The music industry is such a cutthroat business, but when we work together, we rise together.
MM: If you weren’t singing and producing music, what could you see yourself doing?
MB: Confidence is infectious, and empowering people is my goal. If I didn’t have music to spread that message, I’d definitely be a make up artist, and/or photographer. I love capturing someone’s essence, and making them feel good about themselves. Something as simple as a fresh make-up look, or awesome photo can really bring confidence to someone. And when you have confidence, you can run the world.
For more info on Mandy and her music, check out her website HERE.
