Demi Grace

Photo Courtesy Of Demi Grace 

WHERE ARE YOU RIGHT NOW AND HAVE YOU ALWAYS LIVED THERE?

I am in New York City. I haven't always lived in New York but moved here three or four years ago and love it!

WHERE WERE YOU BORN AND RAISED?

I was born and partially raised in East London. My family and I left London when I was about five years old and moved to the San Francisco Bay Area in California. We lived there for several years before I moved to L.A. for university and to start my career.

WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT YOUR CITY OR HOMETOWN?

The best thing about East London and the Bay Area is the diversity and culture. I remember having very close friends of all nationalities in both London and California. Everyone hangs out with everyone, so I had the chance to learn from and be influenced by several cultures.

WHAT WERE YOUR INFANT ASPIRATIONS?

They have always been to sing to nations and spread love through music. This has been my dream way before anyone had the chance to tell me, "no".

WHAT HAS BEEN A SEMINAL EXPERIENCE?

My recent ad with Pantene, being that I am not only the first Nigerian artist they've worked with, but the first woman with dreadlocks in a major hair care brand commercial.

WHY MUSIC?

Music is a universal language. It connects people. It moves people. Music is the sound of souls. 

FIRST SONG EVER SUNG?

The first song I even sang had to have been a gospel song being that my parents had me and my sisters in church two to three times a week. The first pop song I ever remember singing was "Don't Take It Personal" by Monica. I sang it all around the house, in school in passing, I'm pretty sure I annoyed my sisters with how many times I sang that song.

IS THERE A SET OF LYRICS OR MUSICAL PASSAGE THAT NEVER FAILS TO MOVE YOU EMOTIONALLY?

Afro-beat or Dance-hall music will always move me. Afro-beat music is so bright, it makes everything look sexier. It makes me feel happy when I hear it.

WHAT OR WHO HAS HAD THE GREATEST INFLUENCE ON YOU?

God has the greatest influence on me. God is an amazing artist. 

AT THE CENTER OF A HAIR CARE DEBATE, WERE YOU SURPRISED THAT A HAIRSTYLE WORN BY BOTH MEN AND WOMEN SINCE TIME IMMEMORAL IS ONLY NOW GAINING "LEGITIMACY"?

I am not surprised by most occurrences in mainstream media. If you are referring to locs as the hairstyle, I believe that it has always been legitimate, but maybe not recognized as much in mainstream media because it wasn't believed to be versatile. That's why the #StrongisBeautiful Pantene campaign showcasing black hair is so important. 

WHAT BEAUTY ROUTINE DO YOU SWEAR BY AND HOW DO YOU STAY IN SHAPE?

Water. Water, water. Drinking plenty of water is the best way to maintain your youth and your health. I wash my locs weekly, focusing on the scalp and make sure my scalp is moisturized after washing. I dance to stay in shape and eat as simply and organically as I’m able to.

HOW DOES YOUR PERSONAL AESTHETIC TRANSLATE IN YOUR LIFE?

My personal aesthetic is mostly simple. I love the fashion of the 90's so naturally I wear clothes that look very 90's (i.e. denim denim denim!, baggy clothes, high waist pants and skirts and slip dresses). I love urban chic fashion with touch of class. It don't think my love for the 90's translates in the music I create, however, it does translate in the way I perform and the type of music I like hearing when I go out.

HOW DO YOU SPEND A DAY OFF?

Relaxing, reading and writing letters to myself and God. I like to listen to positive messages and do my nails on my days off as well.

HOW DO YOU UNWIND?

By listening to positive messages, cleaning my personal space, doing my nails and/or hair, and meditating.