Known As The Queen of Indie Soul, CONYA DOSS, Opens Up About Her Recent Album, “VII” and Much More!

Conya Doss has a voice that definitely falls in the realm of past and current great vocalists.

The mesh of genres (classical, soul, blues etc…) are definitely transparent in her most recent project “VII(Seven)”.  Doss‘ solid brand over the years as the “Queen of Indie Soul” will serve as useful guideline for any upcoming female artist. This collection contains 12 songs of soul infused with jazz and pop.  The skillful arrangement of horns, strings and piano riffs suit her finely crafted lyrics about love found, love lost, and the search for true love.

Learn more about Ms. Conya Doss in the following All Access interview:

So, what’s a typical day look like for you now?

A typical day for me is not so typical. I am making sure that my kindergartener is getting what he needs, homework etc…., listening to mock tracks of new music that I am working on, working as mentor and advisor for High School Cheerleaders, rehearsal for upcoming shows, teaching high school courses and more. Pretty busy I’d say.

Growing up, did you always want to go be an artist? Was your family always supportive of your musical aspirations?

Yes, I always had the gift of song every since I can remember. I don’t recall a time not being exposed to it, whether it was through family gatherings, going to church with my great grandmother, or school events.  Yes, my family has always been extremely supportive in my musical aspirations to this day.

Congrats on recently releasing your 7^th studio album, “VII”! How do you think you have grown as an artist on this collection? 

Thank you. This album for me has allowed me to stretch my creativity even further because I was able to touch on almost every genre, which is a reflection of what I have been exposed to growing up.  I was able to also embrace more creative perspectives from producers Myron Davis, Rodney Jones, and Jayshawn Champion.

I think musically I have grown with regard to my approach such as infusing certain instruments to bring the music to life even more, especially with my next single “Reach Out.”  Having Lin Rountree, Frank McComb and Marcus Machado has definitely added more flavor to my project.  I’ve had 15 year old kids tell me how much “Beautiful” has inspired them and 65 + year olds tell me that “Spend My Life” has sparked their relationships. (Laughter)

What was the process like for you putting this album together?

My own experiences have enabled me to write very easily. Also, by others sharing with me their experiences have  been a huge motivator.  Myron Davis and Rodney Jones are my musical muses. We all just bounce ideas and vibes off each other, which results in a record in like 4-5 months. It is magical.

What was the inspiration for the collection’s lead single “You Got Me”?

Actually, Rodney Jones called me and was telling me that he was in church and these chords came to him. He sent the rough, whereas Myron and I were just humming and vibing and came up with the hook “You Got Me, ” I just got lost in the music and started completing the counter hook and verses. It was completed in about 20-30 minutes.  It is such a serene vibe that takes me to another place.

Can you talk about your work with the various non-profits?

I have been spending more time with the youth, i.e. tutoring, advising….. It has been an honor to support various programs to bring about HIV awareness by working with BET‘s Rap-It-UP campaign, Keeping The Promise, NOT ON OUR WATCH (N.O.W.) program, and others. I plan on continuing to do my part in helping the community.

You are known as “The Queen of Indie Soul”. What does that mean to you these days and do you still think it’s reflective of you and your sound today?

I appreciate the title, however, I have so much work to do to live up that title. I definitely receive it and embrace it.  My goal is to remain solid and consistent.  I believe in creating good “feel good” music which will always be consistent and reflective of my sound. I want to be a part of the timeless music group.  Meaning, I want to have the same impact that Stevie Wonder, Donnie Hathaway, or Chaka Khan has, where we can listen to their music 30 years from now and it still gives us that “Great” feeling!!!

Being Independent is still current for me, yet I have had the honor to stretch my reach by developing a partnership with Topnotch Music/Eone. It is always an honor to be in great company with those who appreciate great music!!!!

You’ve gotten to perform with many talented artists. Which collaboration has stood out to you the most so far?

This summer’s The ATL Soul Life Music Fest was a blast sharing the stage with Chrisette Michele, Algebra Blessette, Anthony David,  Dwele, Kindred The Family Soul, Avery Sunshine, and so many others.  My standout collaboration so far has been with my childhood  friend, Frank McComb.  He is an amazing artist and I actually started my songwriting with him.

What artists have continued to inspire you through the years? Who would you love to work with in the future?

So many to name, I ‘d say those who inspired me through the years are Stevie Wonder, Bonnie Raitt, Nina Simone, Prince, Jill Scott, Lauryn Hill, D’Angelo, India Arie, Erykah Badu, Natalie Cole,  Mint Condition, Raphael Sadiiq … the list goes on and on!! I would love to work with Raphael Sadiiq, Dwele ( again), and Bonnie Raitt to name a few!!

What do you hope is the message of your music? What do you hope listeners take away from your songs? 

That the world needs love.  It is okay to experience love and pain. Those are the things that we grow and learn from.  I want listeners to be inspired by me as I have been by so many others.

Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers about yourself or your music?

Please check out my catalog of records and reach out to me at www.conyadoss.com, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.