MICHELLE BROOKS-THOMPSON

Whitney Houston of Gospel Music

When did you first get into music?

I always say that I started music in the womb! My late mother was a professional singer and while she was pregnant with me, I’d always start moving in her belly to the music whenever she performed or was in the studio recording. She’d literally have to stop recording in her studio session because I was so active! I would think that I gave my first musical performance in utero! Lol

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in music?

I think my sincere love and passion for music since a child has inspired me to pursue a career in music. Honestly, music has been a part of me since as far back as I can remember. I can’t even pinpoint or say what sparked it. I just know that I’ve been singing my entire life. I can remember sitting at the piano with my mom and watching her sing and play. I was around the age of 4 or 5 when I’d do that. By the age of 9- I was playing piano by ear and taking lessons. And actually, I would pull my keyboard out into the front yard and gather the kids in the neighborhood to form a choir. We’d sing outside and I’d play the piano! At 10 years old I won my first talent competition singing Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” & was singing in a trio group with my mother and aunt. I was also singing in the adult church choir and leading difficult musical solo’s with ease. Music surrounded me every day. Once my mother passed away when I was 13 years old, I took over the church music ministry for my grandfather’s church. From that point on I continued to remain active in music. Everything that I did musically helped me develop into who I am and my passion for it.

How has your music evolved since you first began creating music?

When I first began singing and performing at a semi-professional level ... I really had not tapped into my own gift as a song writer/ composer. I was content with singing covers of other artists but making them my own. It wasn’t until 2005 that I wrote my first song titled, “I Won’t Complain.” I wrote the song for a talent show in college - which I ended up winning 1st place and $500.00. Looking back to that song and comparing it to my newer songs such as “When I Think” or “He Will Do It” ... my writing style and confidence has changed for sure. It mainly has a lot to do with me growing vocally and developing my own music style as an artist.

Tell us about your experience on NBC’s The Voice. How has being on the show helped you as an artist?

Being on NBC’s the Voice was no doubt an amazing experience. It was a platform that I had waited to grace for several years within my journey as an artist. I had auditioned for American Idol once and twice for BET’s Sunday Best Gospel singing competition, but never landed a spot on either of those shows.

Anytime an undiscovered musical artist or musician can compete on these major network talent shows, is an enormous benefit to their career just if they take advantage of it. And this is like the advice that producers repeatedly told us during the taping of the show. We did not necessarily have to win The Voice to be successful from the show’s platform. It’s all about what we did with the platform afterwards! I was determined to make the most of the platform once I left the show. I can honestly say that I have maximized on it just as producers recommended us to do. Having been on the show has its advantages for sure. I have done many things since appearing on The Voice. The performance platforms I have been on is due to a combination of my vocal skills & abilities and having been on The Voice.

I am certain that other unsigned artists who have been on the Voice or other talent shows, will admit that the platform somewhat serves as a validation of one’s singing abilities. When you are an indie artist trying to make a name for yourself in the music industry amongst names like Beyoncé, Jennifer Hudson, Tamar Braxton, major talent platforms help give recognition to your name and talent. Doesn’t always mean you’re at that “next level” but you could be on your way if you use the platform and publicity to your advantage.

If you were forced to choose only one, which emotion, more than any other drives you to stay in this tough business? Is it joy, anger, desire, passion or pride and why?

It is no doubt that passion is what fuels me to continue with my music pursuit! Simply put… I have a passion for music that won’t ever die. Honestly, there have been moments that I’ve contemplated putting music aside… but it doesn’t happen. Even with past closed doors... disappointments, broken promises from people on the industry, those doors have not stopped me from continuing my pursuit as a professional singer. I believe that God placed me here on this earth to bless people through my singing and speaking voice. Singing and music is all part of my divine purpose. Reaching and inspiring people through my music is part of my purpose and giving it up because it’s a “tough business” would be me aborting my purpose. I always say that the path to my success is different than everyone else because God planned it that way. I simply must trust and believe that my steps are ordered by Him. This alone gives me the faith to keep pushing because this is my destiny.

Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a performing artist in an industry overflowing with new faces and ideas?

The main ingredient that has made me special and unique is my self-confidence as a vocalist and confidence in my purpose. I have maintained confidence in who I am as an artist but have also maintained humility and grace so that I can grow. I’ve never been one to think that “I’ve arrived” and that there’s not opportunities for growth. I can continue growing in my musical abilities and maintain true to who I am as an individual artist.

I believe that sometimes artists are not sure who they are and are not comfortable in their own abilities. Upcoming artists try to replicate other artists... and don’t develop into their own. Social Media and the music industry play such a huge part in this. You see random singers go viral and they become an overnight sensation. Up and coming artists then believe this is who they need to be like to get to that next level. I feel the exact opposite because at that point, you need to be yourself and celebrate your uniqueness. Does the industry need another Beyonce? Another Fantasia? Another Taylor Swift? There are plenty of people in this world to share your music with who will embrace you as a unique & special artist.

What has been your biggest challenge as a performing artist? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?

The biggest challenge for me has been connecting with the right people who are true and genuine in the music industry and want to help me launch into the next level. People have always looked at me and my talent and see the incredible potential that I have but lack the resources themselves. I have delt with people who have made big promises like they will be my manager and get me to the next level, etc.… but in fact they did the opposite. This has set me back so much because I’ve wasted time with these individuals. 3 years here- 1 year there and so on. They weren’t there to help me but stay for the ride. I’ve lost over $20,000 with managers, promoters, producers, etc. I recall signing up with a manager who really did nothing. I was in a contract for 1 month and it was pure craziness. When I wanted to end the management relationship, I had to pay $500.00 when they had invested nothing into my career.

You must be careful of those who are looking to attach themselves to you for what they can get out of it. It’s sad that I’ve experienced this because it effects my ability to confidently trust people. People say that there are wolves in the industry, and I have found out that it is true. As I continue moving forward with my career, I always keep my past experiences in my mind to help guard myself. At some point though, I’d love to be surrounded by a team of people who truly care and want to invest in my talent because they 100% committed.

A common phrase in the industry is, “you must suffer for your art.” Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art?

Yes, I’ve suffered for my art. For sure! Over $20,000 for starters! There are so many stories in my career that I can share. People would wonder why I haven’t just retired at this point or given up on music… but I can’t! All of those instances of course stung and hurt me deeply, but I’ve just moved on. I have not forgot the suffering I went through… I’ve just learned from it and keep moving forward because I am passionate about what I want to do in music. And honestly, the suffering makes me appreciate every level of success I reach!

How do you feel the internet has impacted the music business?

Music is now digital and the ability to stream music is also a benefit, but a curse at the same time. It seems that the internet/social media (FB, TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter) has become a major element in the music business. It’s key for artists to interact with fans and have a strong social media presence. The internet has allowed music to be more accessible- which is great for indie artists without a major distribution deal. It helps indie artist spread their music on a global platform.

Have you done or plan on doing any Live-stream Concerts? If you have, how has the response been from your fans?

During the pandemic I did a few online. It was a great way for me connect with my fans and allow them to still hear my voice. As venues are beginning to open back up, I am looking forward to putting Live-stream concerts to the side… I miss the live performances with my fans.

If you could change anything about the music industry. What would it be?

I feel like the music industry has become somewhat biased. You need a certain look and a repetitive sound. There’s no individualization or true originality in the industry. If you don’t fit the mold… you don’t get noticed. I can recall being on The Voice and a viewer commented on social media that I was too fat to be on the show! I was like wow?! What does that even mean? I am too fat to be a singer or performer? Really? Isn’t this show called “The Voice?” … not “The Body” or “The Look!” I think that this comment stems from what the music industry is promoting when it comes to image. I think females have it worse because they need to be sex symbols more than being a vocal sensation. It helps to be able to sing a little bit- but it’s all about the look.

I understand it is a business and at the end of the day- it’s about the money for sure. It seems that it’s not about good music or talent anymore… like it was back in the day. I think of singers like Patti, Aretha, Whitney, Celine Dion, Mariah, Rachelle Ferrell… where are those voices today and where is that caliber of music? I can’t recall when any of these voices used their sex appeal to sell records. It was their music. Their voices!

This isn’t to say that there is not some good major talent… but it’s not like it was years ago. I would love to see the music industry pick up where it left off in the late 80s and early 90’s when it was about good music with substance, artist uniqueness, and talent.

What are the 5 albums that have helped make you the person you are today? And why?

Whitney Houston- “Greatest Love of All” Mariah Carey- “Make It Happen” Yolanda Adams- “Don’t Give Up” Beyonce- “Listen” Kelly Clarkson “Stronger”

What is the best advice you have received?

Over the years I’ve received some good advice from family, friends, and even fans. There have been two things spoken to me throughout my career that has kept me going and motivated. First, “Keep God first and everything else will come!” and secondly, “Your voice is an inspiration. Don’t stop singing or give up! You were made for this!”

What projects are you currently working on... that you can talk about?

I am working on a few exciting projects. My new single “Woman First” dropped on May 7th! I call it the 2021 anthem for us ladies! My next single is an official version of the National Anthem! I have performed the Star-Spangled Banner at least 60 times for all major sporting events, prestigious events, with orchestras, etc. I have even won competitions with my version, so I have decided to release it as a single. I am interested to see how it does! I am also working on an album and releasing two additional singles with Stellar, Dove, And Grammy nominated Jazz Saxophonist, Mel Holder!

What’s next for you?

What’s next? More music, more grinding, and more success! I hope that this time next year I will have received my first Grammy nomination.

How can fans-to-be gain access to your music?

Thanks to Sony Music the Orchard- fans have multiple ways to access my music through their digital partner channels!

Michelle Brooks-Thompson 2017 Season Apollo Amateur Night Winner S3 NBC’s The Voice Finalist www.michellebrooksthompsonmusic.com MBT Music Ministries