Lakithia Jones: Interviewing the L.A. Based MC with Something to Say

There's no secret that the Hip Hop industry is male-dominated and females are commonly seen as eye candy shaking what their momma gave them. Occasionally, real talents slip through the cracks and Lakithia Jones is one of those cases.

Lakithia Jones, a Milwaukee native, was introduced to music at an early age when she began singing solos in church.

Inspired by Hip Hop legends Tupac, the Notorious BIG, Snoop Dogg, Jay-Z and Scarface, she decided to make the transition from gospel music to rap in order to cope with harsh realities.

But, this young lady's lyrics are not the raunchy type but her songs consist of flowing poetry about hope over hot beats. After working with a local producer, in 2000, she released her first album, Lakithia Jones aka Miss Angel on MP3.com and her second album, which she self-titled the following year. Both releases made her a local celebrity and an upcoming talent to look out for.

Not only does she rock the mic but she works it out in front of the camera, having made appearances in the shows, Girlfriends, Eve, Gilmore Girls and ER.

I had the opportunity to find out more about the multifaceted MC and to see if there was more behind the girl with the unique name and the pretty face.

Myrick: You started out singing gospel music and you made the transition from singing to rapping. Why didn't you stick with singing?

Lakithia: I started singing as a little girl initially. I was influenced by Michael Jackson at the tender age of two. Growing up I was raised in church and secular music wasn't permitted in my household. I began rapping other artists' music as a young girl for fun. I just had a love for music and all types of music. Then my environment changed and I started writing rhymes and rapping based on my experience. I still sing also. Rap just allowed me to express another side to myself in ways singing wouldn't. But singing is still with me and I will showcase my singing in the near future.

Myrick: How do you feel your background in gospel music influences your music today?

Lakithia: Well my music doesn't shy away from my spirituality. I'm a spiritual person and I don't hide that. I believe it comes across in my music without being preachy.

Myrick: With female artists like Lil Kim and Trina who are normally seen as eye candy, do you fear people will see you as the same and not focus on your music?

Lakithia: No, and think it's the way I come across as a person. I think I present myself differently than they do. As an artist, one of the things I want people to know is that there's more to me than the eyes can see. I carry such a strong message in my music of hope, inspiration, life, and encouragement and that right away you realize it's in my music. So I believe the focus is on what I'm saying and how I'm saying it.

Myrick: What do you feel you bring differently to hip hop?

Lakithia: Wow! One of the things I always say is that I bring a strong message of hope to hip-hop. I like to keep it real! I talk about the struggles I go through just living life. In my music I make the impossible possible. I bring hope and faith to the ghetto and everyone else that relates. I know what it's like to come out of the ghetto and for people to tell you dreams aren't real. I'm living proof all day that dreams are real. Through my music I give listeners inspiration. I think my music is also uplifting and empowering!! In my music I believe I remind people of the endless possibilities and I do it through Hip Hop!!

Myrick: How would you describe the current state of hip hop?

Lakithia: Honestly at this moment some of the greatest Hip Hop artists have just released albums. I think the current state is good. It's more of a balance. I think balance is necessary. I believe we need to give our youth positive messages because honestly they are the future.

Myrick: I read from your bio that you have some acting gigs on your resume. What actors would you like to one day work with?

Lakithia: I would love to work with Ashley Judd, Jamie Foxx, Eddie Murphy, Bruce Willis, Will and Jada Smith, Tyler Perry, Charlize Theron, Halle Berry, Sanaa Lathan, Denzel Washington, Kerry Washington, Nia Long, Ice Cube, Taraji P. Henson and more. I love acting. It's one of my passions and childhood dreams that I can't wait to fulfill.

Myrick: Who does the writing and producing for your music?

Lakithia: I write all of my music. The reason is because I write from my life and personal experiences. I believe no one can tell my story better than myself. Writing music is also my outlet. As far as producing goes, different producers have produced for me.

Myrick: What artists/producers would you like to work with?

Lakithia: Wow a lot!! I would love to work with Alicia Keys, Christina Aguilera, Jay-Z, Justin Timberlake, Fantasia, Mary J. Blige, Scarface, John Legend, Eminem, Tyrese, 50 Cent, T.I., Mariah Carey, Jamie Foxx, Jill Scott and Lauryn Hill. The producers I'd like to work with are Timbaland, Dre, Kanye West, Guru, Just Blaze, Rodney Jerkins, Pharrell, Missy Elliott and Scott Storch.

Myrick: Who are some of your influences, musically and non-musically?

Lakithia: Oprah is a huge influence on me. I love her for her huge giving heart. She is a beautiful person. Sean Carter, 50 Cent, Jennifer Lopez, Kimora Lee Simmons, Russell Simmons and Sean Combs are all people who have built empires. They are so inspirational to me because they all show it can be done. They had goals and dreams and they accomplished them. This tells me I can as well. This goes back to the endless possibilities that I believe in and live by. Anything is possible. I dream of building an empire around my career. Chris Gardner is the inspiration behind the story Pursuit of Happyness. He's an inspiration to me as well. We both came from the same environment. He struggled, overcame and that means everything to me. The struggle is your story but to overcome is your ultimate victory.

Myrick: Out of all the songs you have recorded, which song stands out to you the most and why?

Lakithia: As of right now, "I Have a Dream." It's my story and I have dreams. This song emphasizes that I don't have to be a statistic, I don't have to be a victim, I don't have to be a failure, I don't have to impoverished, I don't have to be a nobody because I am a somebody. I believe it speaks for itself as a message. In that song I'm saying that I will not be held down, held back or limited. I can achieve the impossible if I believe and pursue my dream.

Myrick: While some upcoming artists seek out management from others, your manager is your husband. How does having your husband as a manager affect your career?

Lakithia: We actually came into this business together. He believed when no one else believed and supported the dream. We have both sacrificed to be in the position that we're both in. I know he has my best interests at heart. He will want the best for me all around. He gets me and understands my vision. So ultimately it works out better for me. I know my career is in good hands.

Myrick: What would you say is a motto you live by?

Lakithia: I live by "live your dreams." Pursue them with everything inside of you. Never place limitations on yourself because nothing in life is impossible. You can achieve anything you put your mind to. All you have to do is believe. Last but not least; NEVER EVER STOP DREAMING!!

Myrick: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Lakithia: I see myself well established. I see successful albums, movies, endorsements, clothing lines, books, girls center/camp, and my own non-profit organization, happy, healthy, and successful and empowering others to live out their dreams. In the Bible, there was a scripture about a man who wasn't afraid to get off of the boat and walk on water. That's me in everyway. I'm not afraid to get off of the boat and walk on water. So for me once the doors are open I'm going for everything I dreamed of. That's also showing people the endless possibilities. It's important for me to not forget the biggest purpose of me fulfilling my dreams and obtaining wealth. One of the reasons for me having access to wealth is for me to a blessing in the lives of others. That's through giving back and impacting the world for the good through music, film, and entertainment. I'm not only concerned about my well being but others. Every person can make a difference whether it's in your community or neighborhood. One of the awesome things about being an entertainer is that you can make huge contributions and impact society for the better.

Myrick: Anything else you would like to say to your current and future fans?

Lakithia: I would personally like to thank everyone who has supported me thus far. Also know every project I get to participate in I will give 200% and that's give my all. Music and entertainment is my love, passion and childhood dream. What I am living is what I've always wanted to do. This isn't simply about fame and money but my passion, love for my career and inspiring others. I would like to also extend a big thank you for future fans and support!! I appreciate it greatly and I do not take it lightly!! God bless each and every last one of you!! DREAM BIG!!

Find out more about Lakithia Jones and her music at Myspace.com/lakithiajones.