Last year was full challenges and triumphs for acclaimed hip-hop artist Tam Tam, and we’re excited for what she has in store here in 2020. A passionate MC with incredible storytelling abilities, she took time out her busy schedule to answer THIS questionnaire about her previous 12 months and what to expect from her in the months ahead.
THIS: How would you summarize 2019?
Tam Tam: 2019 [was] very challenging. There [was] many external factors like death, illness, relationship ups and downs, etc. That has impacted my mental health. This resulted in me taking care of my mental health which I believe many people are ashamed of getting help. This is a stigma that plagues many people, especially in urban communities. Because of this, I promise you I am much stronger and wiser, and I have a lot to speak on through my music. Furthermore, I am about to start writing my book that so many people have encouraged me to write. I did not feel like I was ready for a book. Now I am and it will be a great read for sure. Moreover, 2019 [was] a year of growth for me in many areas of my life.
THIS: What was your favorite song of ‘19?
Tam Tam: My favorite song for 2019 is called “Bad Company” by Struggle Jennings and his daughter Brianna Harness. I got the opportunity this year to meet with Struggle and Brianna and it was a pleasure. Struggle and I have plans to collaborate as well.
THIS: What was your favorite movie?
Tam Tam: ‘Proud Mary’ [starring] Taraji P. Henson. I am a huge Taraji fan.
THIS: What’s the television show you couldn’t stop watching?
Tam Tam: ‘Shameless’ is my show; I love ‘Shameless’. I call it the crazy people. ‘Shameless’ is so relatable on all levels of life.
THIS: What album got the most play?
Tam Tam: J. Cole’s “KOD”. You have to have content and a nice flow to keep my attention. I love the artform, so I listen to MCs.
THIS: What did you Google the most?
Tam Tam: Jaz-O, my big bro. We both are busy, but we do speak on the phone when we get a chance. I love to see all the great moves he is making, and he is an inspiration in my career, very supportive and motivational. I encourage all artists to google Jaz-O to become educated on hip-hop as well as his journey. A legend, a true pioneer.
THIS: What was the most shocking thing you heard all last year?
Tam Tam: What was done to Nipsey Hussle was very devastating. We live in a very evil world driven by greed and jealousy breeds hate. R.I.P Nipsey and God bless his family.
THIS: Tell us how you evolved over the last 12 months.
Tam Tam: I evolved by who to allow in my space and who not to allow in my space. Family and/or friends can drain you. I am more protective of my peace of mind. I spend a lot of time with just myself because I know I won’t hurt me. I am very selective of the energy I am around. I used to put a lot of people before myself and now I make sure I always consider my best interest first. I do not trust as much as I used to. I have more patience with making the right dots connect. Effective decisions. I have no problem saying “No”. 2019 taught me a lot.
THIS: What was your biggest blessing last year?
Tam Tam: I’m still here breathing, and I have a house that is paid off – no mortgage. A great financial blessing allowed me to remain independent and invest wisely. My big bro Mike White The Beholder and I will be heading to the West Coast. We have business to handle that is going to position us where we deserve to be. I was also presented with an internship and scholarship to the next level of law school. Los Angeles here I come! I got the invite to Dr. Dre’s studio to work on a record with Blu2th [and] I’m also working with DJ Toney Tone and K.T on some huge records and situations. The ‘Massacre’ projects by Noah from WeGlobal is also a blessing for the entire state of Alabama. We are the first state with this type of concept. It’s the best of the best all on one record, broken up by each city per record. A nice offer from Jaz-O is also in the works and I can’t wait until we release “Hush Money”. If you love hip-hop, you are going to love how lyrically we came down. You gotta be the truth to get on a track with Jaz-O.
THIS: How do you teach someone to have better respect for the value of time?
Tam Tam: Show them how you value your time. Lead by example.
THIS: What can we expect from you here in 2020?
Tam Tam: Plenty of dope records from The Beholder and I. A lot of visuals and we plan to tour in 2020. Our fans will hear production from Craig Groove, Ken P of Trunkbangaz, DJ Toney Tone, K.T, LST and Blu2th. |THIS
[Written by Mr. Joe Walker | Follow THIS on Twitter @THISENT1]
