Ever since the release of her breakthrough debut EP ‘Solar Plexus’ last year, Florida’s B3XX has quickly established herself as one of the more exemplary additions of the modern soul scene. And with that release continuing to make waves, she now returns to an intimate live rendition of one of its standout offerings, ‘Orange Silk’.
So with the new performance available to stream now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and what her plans are for the future as well.
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Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in music?
I got started in music at a super young age. I actually don’t remember a time in my life when I wasn’t singing. I was always singing along with my favorite artists and having pretend concerts in my bedroom. I took piano lessons as a child, but then my dad taught me chords when I was in middle school. Once I learned those, I was able to cover my favorite songs and explore my creativity by really making them my own. It wasn’t until I was around 20-21 that I started writing my own music and collaborating with producers!
Who are your biggest musical influences and how have they shaped your sound?
I take inspiration from a lot of different artists, and when you listen to my music you can hear a bit of each of them. Like Ariana Grande’s vocal production, Adele’s soul, Cleo Sol’s message, Erykah Badu’s organic sound, Mariah Carey’s vocal inflection, Lauryn Hill’s story telling. They all come together to create this magical neo-soul experience.
Was there a specific moment or experience that made you decide to pursue music seriously?
I always knew music was what I wanted to do, there was never a time in my life that I questioned what I was supposed to do with this gift. But I’ve definitely been through some hardships in this industry where I was surprised by my own resilience & dedication. So I wouldn’t say that I have had a specific moment that made me decide to pursue music, but rather, a lot of confirmation. Everything in my life has always pointed to music, no matter how far away I was, it has always come to find me in some way or another.
Can you walk us through your typical songwriting process?
Typically, I go into the studio and listen to beats that resonate with me in the moment.The production usually inspires the vibe for me, so that’s why I like to start there. If melodies start flowing, I’ll drop it in logic and start recording those melody takes. Usually, I’ll get a word or a phrase out of the gibberish melody lines and run with it. I like to believe that those random words or phrases are my subconscious speaking freely, so I try to dig deeper into them and expand on the thoughts.
How do you find inspiration for your music and lyrics?
Life is the best inspiration of course. This journey that I’m on, chasing my dream, and my past experiences. But ultimately, my man is a huge inspiration behind most of my music. He has always inspired me, just being the man that he is and his story. We’re both chasing our dreams, and it’s something we talk about often, so it’s always top of mind for me. He’s brought me so much peace and happiness, so most of my songs are dedicated to him.
What themes or messages do you hope listeners take away from your music?
I always want to leave my listeners with a little more peace than they started with. I hope that when they press play on my EP, Solar Plexus, that they embark on a journey of self. That’s what this project was for me. Listening to it front to back, you’ll learn about my story of overcoming anxiety about the future, feeling empowered, love, and redemption over a two year time period. I want listeners to walk away feeling like they just took the deepest breath of fresh air, and know that though times may be hard, the sun will rise again.
What challenges have you faced as an emerging artist in the music industry?
I have faced many challenges as an emerging artist in this industry, especially as a woman. I’ve experienced everything from empty promises of success, people seeing me as an opportunity, lack of support from friends, social media algorithm frustration, club owners telling me what to wear or how to look, or being taken advantage of in business. I’m sure so many up and coming artists can relate to at least one or all of these things! But at the end of the day, it’s about learning from these experiences and having the discernment to navigate through this industry.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your musical journey so far?
Gosh, every aspect of this journey has been rewarding. The relationships, collaborations, the creation, living my purpose, listeners taking the time to message me, etc. But honestly, performing live and seeing it all come to life with the fans is a dream come true. It feels like an out of body experience to finally be living the moments I’ve dreamed about.
How do you stay true to yourself and your artistry in a constantly evolving industry?
In the most humble way, I am extremely confident in the gift and the vision that God gave me. That has definitely kept me grounded. I’ve also been incredibly blessed to have such a solid foundation around me, my family, my man, my manager, my friends, they’re all so incredibly supportive, and definitely not afraid to speak up if something I create doesn’t feel like ME. There are definitely times where I’m like, “maybe I should try a new sound and go more commercial.” But then I’m reminded that my music is simply a reflection of me, and I don’t want to be everybody else.
What can fans expect from you in the near future? Any upcoming projects or tours?
I have a live performance coming up this summer, details to be released very soon! I also have been in a creative high lately, so I’ve been in the studio working hard on some new things. It’s all in the works right now, but follow me on all socials @WHEREISB3XX to stay tuned!
Where do you see yourself and your music career in the next five years?
In the next five years, I hope to have surrounded myself with the best team possible. I see myself on bigger stages with bigger opportunities and sharing my gift with even bigger audiences. I see myself continuing to let my light shine and sharing my stories with the world. I have faith that God will take me wherever He needs me, and that if I continue to work as hard as I am now, the possibilities for my career are endless.
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Watch B3XX’s live performance of ‘Orange Silk’ below.
