Conversation with Jamaican singer Stephanie Wallace-Maxwell

Stephanie Wallace-Maxwell is a Jamaican singer and songwriter who has graced various avenues of entertainment and the arts in her young career. She has travelled the world with various acts as a supporting vocalist for the past six (6) years. From Basque band singer Fermin Muguruza and California band Groundation to Cocoa Tea, Mr. Vegas and Cherine Anderson. Having been a member of The Ashe Performing Arts Ensemble, she is trained as an all round performer. Stephanie has had the privilege of working for Sony Music Japan and Sly & Robbie on two studio albums that has gotten tremendous recognition in Japan. The mother of two also has her own charity called Books For Change that helps persons in need of text books for school. She is signed to Rebel America Inc. as a songwriter and enjoys working in Public Relations and Marketting. This multifaceted artist continues to spread her wings where the sky is no limit. Here is our conversation with Stephanie Wallace-Maxwell.
 
Tell us about your background and how did you get started singing?
I started singing in school, as young as Primary school (Pembroke Hall Primary School), representing and excelling in the Jamaica Cultural Developement Commisions annual competitions. Then on to The Queen’s School where i was apart of both the Performing Arts Choral and School Choir. In the middle of my high schhol experience i became the lead singer for a Cabaret band called Steele Force, doing shows on the Jamaican north coast and at various functions in the Kingston area. Upon leaving high school, then came Ashe Performing Arts Ensemble and then supporting vocals for both local and international artists. Now im cultivating my own solo efforts.
 
Tell how about your song”So In Love”? Did you write the song? What was your inspiration to write the song?
“So In Love” was written by myself with creative imput from local rapper/songwriter Scantana. My inspiration stemmed from a new and exciting relationship that sprung up after a period of being away from home.
 
What is the best compliment you have gotten about the “So In Love” song?
Best compliment. Hmmmm….. I’ve heard that its a nice blend of genres which means alot to me as i always endeavor to keep my projects fresh and not very predictable.

You have a few singles out there. When can we expect your album to be released?
The album has been long anticipated but i believe everything is done in perfect timing. So summer of 2013 is the projected timeline.
 
How would you describe your sound?
My sound is a reflection of all my musical influences, a mixture of genres but predominantly R&B and fusions thereof.

We see that you are a song writer. Can you tell us a few of the songs by Jamaican artists that you have penned?

I have penned most of my own songs, but nothing note-worthy for Jamaican artists. I am a signed song writer for Rebel America Inc. out of Texas where i write songs for different music lisencing opportunities.
 
Have you being doing anything else in the entertainment arts field?
Yes i have. Having always had an interest in marketting and public relations with my official online courses at Berklee (Music Business)about to start, I am the Sponsorship Manager and Marketting Rep. for the annual Gungo Walk World Alternative Music and Arts Festival in Jamaica.

What projects are you working on right now?
I am currently working on a few singles for various local producers, an inspirational EP and my debut EP to be released early 2013.
 
If you were stuck on a desert island and given the choice of 2 albums to put on your ipod which artist would it be?
Brandy and Groundation
 
My favorite guilty pleasure is…
My favourite guilty pleasure is Ben n Jerry’s chocolate fudge brownie ice cream had with chocolate cake. *Grins*
 
Growing up my hero was…
Growing up my hero was/is my mother and Oprah Winfrey.

Thanks for your time. Do you any closing thoughts?
Music has been my rock and saviour. I am highly spiritual and I believe we all express our spirituality in different ways. Music is my way of living my best life and giving all the Glory to the Almighty. It will be music until my last breath. Thanks for reaching out to me and supporting my movement. One Love!!

Be Sure to check out Stephanie Wallace-Maxwell @
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/stephsingslove
Reverbnation:
http://www.reverbnation.com/stephaniemusicpage
Twitter:
http://twitter.com/stephsingslove