Rising Stars Inc. InterviewDecember 2003

RisingStarsinc.com
Artist/Band Name: Mandi Leigh
How long band/artist has been performing: 17 Years, since I was three.
Location (City and/or State): L.A., California & Gilbert, AZ
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Q: Hi! How are you doing today?
A: I am doing quite good, thank you.

Q: Hope your ready to answer 'cause here we go! Why don't you tell
everyone when you became interested in music and how you went about
breaking in?
A: I have been interested in music since I first heard music. It's been a passion of mine all of my life. As far as breaking in, I booked shows where I could, recorded a demo, started networking, and never gave up.

Q: Why did you choose the music industry? Why focus more on music and
not law, rocket science or something else? Some people have specific
reasons for liking music. What about music attracts you?
A: When it comes to expressing my emotions, I love to be dramatic. Writing, singing, performing, dancing, using energy in that way lets me get out everything I'm feeling, and really makes me feel at peace. I also feel that being in the entertainment industry will one day, I hope, put me in a position to give back to people. Giving back is also a passion of mine. I also need variety in my career. To be creative.

Q: Do you have any genres you'd like to try besides your current one?
Like I dunno... rap, country, rock, etc? What do you consider your
current genre to be right now anyway?
A: What I love about the music I am doing right now, and the team that I am working with, is that, it's pop music. Popular music that makes you feel good. However, it's diverse pop. With r&b, rock, hip hop and urban influences. A little something for everyone.

Q: Do you write or co-write your own song lyrics. If so, what
inspires you to write?
A: I do write. I have been writing poetry and lyrics all my life. My day to day life inspires me. My situations, my families, my friends.

Q: What's your favorite song out of the ones you've performed so far
and why?
A: I have yet to perform alot of my new material, we are recording the album at the moment. However, I do enjoy performing 'Devil In Me', fans that are familiar with it will come out to the shows and sing along. It's an amazing feeling.

Q: What's it like performing on-stage for you? What do you like most
about it and can you tell us about any particularly embarrassing or
memorable moments?
A: It's exhilarating. I love the energy from the crowd & performing music that means so much to me. Doing what I love to do. Embarrassing or memorable.. I was doing a big New Year's Eve show in Tennesee, and in the middle of the show the power went. But it actually blew out, sparks flew and it was loud. Everyone thought I went with it, and came to the stage. It was definitely a memorable show.

Q: Who has had the largest influence in your life and your career? How
have your family and friends reacted to your career/success so far?
And can you tell us some of your musical influences...
A: My largest influences are God, my mother. My mother has always been my #1 supporter. The path I have chosen has truly been a test of who your real friends are. I have a few friends who I know will always be there for me, and thats whats important to me. As far as musical influences, artists like Jennifer Lopez, Missy Elliot. They are strong women who have covered music, movies.. etc. And who are so strong and talented.

Q: Do you play any instruments? Are there any you'd like to learn?
A: I currently do not. I would love to learn piano and guitar.

Q: What about production-wise? Would you eventually like to get
yourself involved in that aspect of the business as well someday?
A: I watch my producers, and they are amazingly hard workers, and so very talented. I never say never. Right now I am just trying to do my thing. Let people hear my music, I would love to tour soon. And I am starting to slowly read some scripts for movies and TV.

Q: Where do you see yourself in five years? Both professionally and
personally.
A: Professionally, signed with an album or two out and doing well. I just want to keep singing, tour, travel the world. I am currently writing a novel and would love to see it published. And do a bit of acting. Personally, I just live day to day. Though I can't wait to own my own home.

Q: How about favorite albums of all time? Name your... I dunno, let's
say Top 3 favorite albums of all time.
A: Any of Boys II Men's. They are amazing vocalists. I am also a big movie soundtrack fan because of the diverse music, so quite a few of those. And to dance and party to I'd have to go with Missy Elliott. Any of her albums.

Q: Well, it's that time again. We've got to wrap things up. But,
before you do, do you have any parting words you'd like to leave for
RSI readers and your fans?
A: Thank you for your support, so much. Go for your dreams always! I hope to see you all in 2004, check out MandiLeigh.com for show info. Bye guys!