Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sundele. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Sundele, appreciate you joining us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?
In August of 2017, I started my professional singing journey as a background singer. Of course, ever since I could remember I wanted to be a singer, so starting off as a backup vocalist definitely put me on the right track. Fast-forward to 2022, I’ve had the opportunity to sing back up for amazing artists, I’ve been able to perform at some really cool venues all throughout Colorado, and I’ve learned so much about the business side of music. However, after 4 1/2 years, I have closed the door on being a backup vocalist so that I can truly focus on my own craft. Though I released two singles in 2020, putting myself first was a constant battle. I felt like I was always committing more to other projects or to singing backup instead of putting the time and effort into my own music. Making that decision of leaving back up was a difficult one, but I knew that this time I needed to transform into the artist I know I am. Sundele (pronounced as Suhn-Del) came about being like most, I started to transition into a new phase of artistry. Before, I was focused on the self love journey but I wasn’t in the mindset of truly loving myself. I struggled with a lot of insecurities as a young black woman and found myself creating this fake persona that I was mentally ok, when truthfully I wasn’t. That’s where Sundele comes into place. I realized that behind closed doors, I love who I am. My size, my hair, my voice, my personality and all. However, I do have days where I don’t feel the greatest and it’s ok. If I need that mental break, it’s ok. If I say no to things, it’s ok. Taking the risk of creating Sundele, came about because those who know me well, know that I love sunflowers and sunflowers represent longevity, loyalty, and they bring me such happiness. I am now loyal to myself and my artistry. The Dele part comes from me being a huge fan of Adele. She’s my favorite and I love how she shows her authentic self no matter what others may think.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers?
I am Sundele, formally known as Britney Jane. I’m a singer/songwriter originally from Virginia, but for now, I live in Colorado. I started in the music scene singing backup for Lee Clark Allen and later became a backup vocalist for Kayla Marque.
As far as what sets me apart from others, I would say my sound and my story. Don’t get me wrong, everyone has a story. But not all stories are alike which creates that distinction. I think for me nowadays it’s still so hard to not follow into what everyone else is doing. However, you have to be strong enough to stand on your own and accept who you are. For me, though it has taken many years, I’m comfortable with the fact that everyone is not going to like my voice. Not everyone is going to like the music I decide to put out. But at the end of the day, at least they can find inspiration in knowing that it’s ok to stay in your own lane and to do what truly makes you happy.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
I think the biggest lesson I had to unlearn is the process of creativity. I would spend hours upon hours trying to write and create song ideas. I found myself becoming so flustered because I started thinking that this writing process comes to others so easily, but why is it so difficult for me? Like is this a sign?!? However, after seeking counsel from some other music gurus I admire, it was clear that the creativity process should be the most free. Meaning just create. Don’t critique. Also, create. Don’t share with others right away. People will be so quick to give opinions during your creative process that you lose the excitement you had.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
As an artist I always hear post content! Everyday! Be consistent. It’s something that I still struggle with. So I’m slowly building my audience on social media. I think what makes it difficult is finding that balance of sharing music vs. personal life stuff. People want to see that they can relate to you, but also I feel like you gotta show your gift here and there as well. So if I could give any advice, I would say have a plan as far as deciding what you represent, but don’t get so caught up in numbers. :-)
Contact Info:
- Instagram: sundelemusic
- Facebook: sundelemusic
- TikTok: Iamsundele