1. Where are we talking from today?
A. I’m currently performing in my hometown of New Smyrna Beach, FL. Nashville, TN is home!
2. Where did you get your artist name from?
A. “Mandy Brooke” is my nickname and middle name. I’ve been told it’s the most 90’s name of all time, but I’ll take it!
3. Music wise what are you working on right now? Are you currently promoting a single or album?
A. Right now, I’m continuing to promote my newly released 5-song EP, called “HAMMER” Produced by Kris Bradley. As soon as I’m back in Nashville, I’ll be working on a new project to release by the end of the year!
4. What was it like putting together your EP? Who or what were the most significant influences on your musical life and career?
A. Kris Bradley (my producer) and I had the absolute best time making HAMMER. For months and months, we would meet every Wednesday and chip away at the production bit by bit. I would leave her studio feeling so exhilarated! Being able to create freely was something I’ve never experienced before... I realized trying to fit in a box was impossible for me. I’m so proud of HAMMER because every song is a different expression of myself. I have a lot of flavors, and I really let my freak flag fly on this one!
The biggest influence in my musical life has been my father, Tige Quimby. He taught me how to play guitar when I was 12 and really ignited the fire in 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.
5. Who are your favorite musicians?
A. 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’m drawn to artists with GUTS and attitude. If I lived in the ’70s, I would’ve loved to work with funk goddess, Betty Davis. She’s such a bad bitch. In today’s terms, I’d love to do collabs with JoJo, Raja Kumari, and Tinashe.
6. What have been the greatest challenges/frustrations of your career so far?
A. I’ve definitely been through my fair share of challenges in this industry; from rejection to body image issues, to being completely misunderstood... However, I would have to say my greatest challenge/frustration has been from trusting the wrong people. But, those same people have been my greatest teachers. I can honestly say I walk through my career with more confidence because I can spot a shark from a mile away, and I know exactly what I want. I’m the boss, and I don’t bow down to anyone anymore.
7. As a musician, what is your definition of success?
A. To me, musical success is making a living doing music. Period. If you’re only chasing fame, you’ll be very disappointed. Fame is fleeting. And if you’re lucky enough to touch fame, you’ll waste precious time chasing the “success” you once had. True success is being proud of the life you create for yourself... the rest are just sprinkled on top of a bad ass sundae.
8. What is your idea of perfect happiness?
A. Perfect happiness is the high I get when I perform. When the moment comes, I couldn’t hit a bad note if I tried. That’s heaven to me.
9. What is your present state of mind?
A. I’m in a really good place right now. I often say “In 10 years, I’ll be looking back at this time very fondly.” I feel very motivated, and focused, but still relaxed. I’m ready to take on the world and really put myself out there.
10. What is your most treasured possession?
A. My confidence. I’ve realized no one in this life will give you anything unless you DEMAND it. I own myself completely. I know what I deserve, and I know what I’m on this Earth to do. That is the best gift God ever gave me.
11. What do you enjoy doing most?
A. I enjoy disconnecting... At 7pm every night, I put my phone on Do Not Disturb and ‘clock out’. I disconnect until the next morning only after I enjoy coffee on my back porch. Having that time for myself is really important to me.
12. Where would you like to be in 10 years’ time?
A. The future is NOW! And if I’m lucky enough to continue writing, recording and performing music 10 years from now, that sounds like a great life to me.
13. Where you @ online?
IG & FB: @MandyBrookeMusic