Today we’d like to introduce you to Dottie.
Dottie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
As a proud Memphis native, I’ve always credited my hometown for me falling in love with music and helping to shape who I am creative. I was definitely influenced by our hometown’s icons such as Aretha Franklin, Sam Cooke, Isaac Hayes, and more.
Being the quintessential “small-town girl with big city dreams”, I sang for many years around the city until I was led to move to Los Angeles in 2013.
Taking that leap of faith to the hills of Hollywood afforded me the opportunity to have worked with, made national television appearances, and toured the world with amazing artists as a supporting/ background vocalist.
Those names include Jennifer Lopez, Ciara, Kendrick Lamar, Monica, Jesse J, Ella Mai, and more.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Though my journey hasn’t always been easy it has absolutely been vital to my career path and molding my character. I recently lost my mother in 2019, my uncle, both godparents, and my bestfriend of 21 years in a 10-month span. It was hit after hit. I didn’t think I’d ever be sane again, much less create or sing.
Thankfully, after a lengthy battle with my mental health, I’ve picked my pen and my mic back up with a vengeance. I feel that one of my soul’s duties is to bring awareness to mental health amongst creatives. It’s this stigma of being labeled “crazy” and not being seen as “cool” that has us silent about our pain. Of course, we can channel it in the music but there comes a time where you need to consciously be still, allow yourself to feel every part, and honor those feelings without having the pressure of needing to be busy or work.
Some days, I write 3 songs by noon, and other days I’m in bed till 2 allowing myself to have whatever moment I need. It’s about balance and not guilt-tripping yourself if you just don’t have it in you at the moment to be productive. What I’ve learned is my best work isn’t forced. It’s organic. These days, I’m in a much better place mentally and spiritually, and even after life’s hardships, I am absolutely excited about what’s next.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a singer/songwriter/vocal producer/creative director/artist who has RnB and Soul in her veins. I love to perform and sing from my heart. I feel that live performances are where I am my highest self… It’s my sanctuary. My safe space. When you see me perform, each time, I hit the stage, I leave with nothing. I give my literal all!
I think that’s always been my niche… being able to completely let go and be so vulnerable has gotten me where I am today. My latest single “Peaches and Cream” is an extension of that vulnerable place and it’s certainly a song that shows who I am as a songwriter, an artist, a woman, and a wife all at once. I’m grateful my audience gives me that freedom.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I was a silly kid. Loved to have fun and spend time with my family who is pretty close-knit. Though I liked to goof around, I was always serious about the arts. I grew up in dance, acting, and singing classes from non-profit organizations such as “Graffiti Playground” founded by DeWayne Hambrick.
Growing up in the inner city these programs were scarce but luckily my parents were always adamant about us following our goals and dreams. I’m the youngest of three kids so I had a lot of support in my home from not only my parents but my siblings.
I would always be in the mall’s talent contest, in local theater, singing at school, or dancing on teams. It was never a point in my childhood that I wasn’t active and I credit my amazing family to that. It’s definitely a driving force behind my diligence and my overall grit.
Contact Info:
- Email: Aphrodottie1@dottiemusic.com
- Instagram: @Aphrodottie1
- Twitter: @Aphrodottie1
- SoundCloud: Dottie Memphis
- TikTok: @Aphrodottie1
Image Credits
Tae Nichol Performance Shots
