Mozella is a pretty young woman with a new album out who I was introduced to through one of my contacts at Universal Music.
The name Mozella conjures up a few wild images, but in all actuality, is just a nickname from her youth that she has chosen to adopt for her stage persona.
When I first caught sight of the album cover - featuring the pretty blond in a casual pose (daydreaming a bit, perhaps?) - I was reminded of a couple of musical artists that I used to listen to back in the sixties (Joni Mitchell, Judy Collins, Joan Baez).
Curiously, when I asked Mozella about her creative influences, she was quick to note that the era impacted her greatly.
Mozella (Mo, to her friends) has been on the road quite a bit fronting for headliners such as the ever-popular Dave Matthews Band.
In fact, that gig triggered memories for the rising young star.
"I had just joined the tour somewhere in the mid-west. It was raining and the security crew was giving us a hard time (what else is new?) about sitting under the pavillion (to stay dry) while Dave sound-checked. Dave jumped down off the stage and walked all the way up the amphitheater to where my band and I were sitting. With a big smile, he introduced himself to me like I was his long lost friend. He told the security crew to leave me alone because I was with the tour. I could not believe how genuine and nice he seemed. He invited my crew and me to come dry off and dine with them. It made me realize how important it is to be cool to people no matter how famous you are or how much money you have. He is such a nice guy!"
Dave, by the way, was featured in the scintillating documentary - Before the Music Dies - which I reviewed last year.
Post: 08/07
http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2007/08/thomas-carlyle-wordsworth-said-who-is.html
What inspires Mozella to write?
"So many things, but mostly life and love I'd say."
Judging from her style - and the tone of the offerings on the new album "Belle Isle" - I surmised that Mo must be pretty low-key in her approach to her creativity and life in general.
It was no surprise, then, when she acknowledged that.
"I'm a pretty laid back. I think the melodies are calm in places but then the energy picks up when the song needs it. I supposed my attitude about what's important to me gets reflected in my music and in my vocal approach. I'm a glass half-full kind of person but I've also had my heart broken. So the pain and the optimism dance around each other constantly on the record."
The album - featuring a handful of tunes with catchy beats - seems pretty complete in-of-itself. So, of course, I wondered if there were any plans to spread her wings and go for a new sound.
"I'm always open to trying new things. It would be a lot of fun to make a concept record or do something way left of center under some mysterious alter ego. I also want to make a jazz album one day."
Mozella's musical tastes are far-reaching and span from greats like Nat King Cole to Hall & Oates.
"I love jazz vocals but I also love a well written pop song. Growing up in Detroit, I was heavily influenced by Motown and I think that comes out in the music too. People say I have a Duffy meets Adele meets Macy Gray vibe."
Whew! That's saying something.
Mozella's goals for the upcoming year ahead?
"To make great music, tour, connect with my fans, and have fun."
As to the past, well, the intelligent young lady has many memories to fondly draw on and be inspired by.
"My grandfather use to sing with me when I was little and play me Ella Fitzgerald and Dinah Washington albums. I know that played a big part in my life. Singing in the car with my mom is a fond musical memory too. And of course, singing in church certainly shaped me as a kid. All my memories (musical or not) help me write. I dig into those same feelings I had in the past (bad and good) and then turn those feelings into words that rhyme."
In the final analysis, Mozella appears to be sitting on top of the world.
That fact was underscored by the fact that there were no burning desires to be fulfilled during the upcoming Holiday season.
"My life is really great. I don't even want anything (presents) this year!"
Unlike some acts who thumb their noses at endorsements or anything that ranks of commercialism, this smart gal recognizes the need for a boost now and then in those high-profile arenas.
"Film, TV, and commercial work are the new radio," she stated matter-of-fact without any qualms.
"Getting a song in an ad can be just as potent as getting spins on radio."
The album cover grabbed me from the get-go, so I asked her to expound a little on the creativity and thinking behind it.
"I wanted a throwback, early 60's kind of vibe. I think that look is very sexy and classy and it goes well with the sounds on the new album "Belle Isle" (which is actually an island in the middle of the Detroit river!!!)."
What's up next for the charismatic talented performer?
"More promotion and shows will keep me busy in the new year. Then we shall seeat! I'll keep writing and making music and see what the next few months hold."
From my vantage point, I'm predicting it will be a hit single, and the flowering of a frenzed fan focus that puts Mozella over the top and into the mainstream in the glare of the media spotlight.
Good luck, Mo!
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Nat King Cole a musical influence
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