Lesbian Life: So at that time did you think…wow, this is my destiny, this is what I was put hear to do?
Karina Iglesias: Absolutely, absolutely, even when singing happy birthday it was a joy. I can’t explain the feeling, its magical when I sing. Knowing you can give something that people will take in that can move or motivate them, get them through something or just have them be in that moment with you is what it’s all about for me
You say that you want to incorporate the sounds of the artists that have influenced you… while paying tribute to them, carve out your own space and create an album with a neo-soul feel. Do you think you have been successful in doing so?
I think so, I definitely think so, if you’re familiar with artist like Marvin Gaye, James Brown and Michael Jackson, and you listen closely to my album from start to finish, you will hear those influences. An artist is never satisfied with their work you always feel you can make it better but when this album was done and I listen from start to finish there is nothing about it I would change. I’m really happy with it and very satisfied with how it turned out. I’ve gotten good reviews. People will hear one of the tunes, and think I am black when they haven’t seen a picture of me.
Who do you want to listen to your music…I mean what genre are you trying to attract and in what age group.
That’s a good question actually the mass media is so saturated with younger acts I think that the people who vibe with me the most based on the people that come to my shows and buy my albums, I would say it’s the 25-45 range which is what I’m targeting. Granted I would love to target the entire world (laughing) but, if I had to pick who is listening right now I think it would be the adult contemporary group of people.
What instruments to you play?
I dabble with a little guitar, not to perform with, but to help with my song writing. I took a few lessons for about a year and a half and it really helped with the new stuff and the new material. I’ve actually incorporated it into my shows when I do originals. I’m actually playing guitar and singing at the same time which is not something I ever imagine myself doing. I know my voice is like my main instrument it gives me a good spin because it makes me more versatile. I can sing lots of genres pretty well, but having an instrument with you is a nice experience as well, I enjoy it!
What would you say to Latina girls who want to step outside of what is expected musically of them and perform neo-soul and r&b?
Well that’s a good question because actually it would depend on if she is going to market the Latin market and do like Spanish r&b, which is not really a popular genre. I don’t know if there is a niche for a girl to do that but it’s a catch 22 because there are so many young acts out there (pause) you got me on that question.
Well, do you feel that there will be any cultural challenges that she will have to overcome?
Yes, I will speak from experience because I have actually not been considered for certain gigs because of my look, because I have an edgy look. Latina singers sort of fit a mold so to speak. I like to set myself aside from that because there are girls out there that have that certain look. When you see one, you’ve seen them all. I would suggest that they be as unique as possible because I think that’s what sets you apart and could eventually make you stand out above the rest.
