Do you recognize this songstress? Her first hit came out in 2001, and her voice saved a new rapper’s single in 2004… like a safety belt. And while it may seem like she’s been quiet since, her fifth album just came out…
That is singer (and real life basketball wife) Syleena Johnson in a new spread for Juicy Magazine. In her cover interview, Syleena explains the importance of her fans to this album.
JUICY: Your new album, Chapter V: Underrated, was named by your fans. How does it feel being classified as “underrated?”
SYLEENA JOHNSON: It makes me want to cry. But it’s a happy cry… a triumphant cry because I work so hard. Even if I don’t sell a million copies, I am still triumphant because it’s *out*. The reviews for *Underrated* have been great. I feel that I did my part and that I’ve been triumphant in creating a great album.
I can’t thank my fans enough because without their support, I wouldn’t be here. And I mean that! We [artists] are supposed to say that but I truly mean it. Besides having my sister, I didn’t really have anyone else to speak with about quitting music. But my fans were there and they were my biggest motivators. They were the ones who said “No!” and were serious about it. They told me that I couldn’t quit and they’re really the reason *Chapter V: Underrated* is here today.
Hit the flip for another look and quote from Syleena’s spread…
JUICY: Exactly why is it so hard for female R&B artists in the industry? What is it like?
SJ: It’s super hard. There’s so much pressure on us and it’s just really unfair. It’s sad because the industry can make you feel that you’re ugly or not marketable because you’re not a size 2, along with many other reasons. Shameful is all it is.
JUICY: You took a break a while ago to raise your sons. What has this new chapter in your life been like now that you’ve put new music out?
SJ: I’m at peace and everything is going smoothly. I feel like I am in the right place—this is the right place and the right time. I feel that I’m right on time with everything and I’m confident with my music. As a person,it’s natural to have doubts. But it’s not about having them; it’s about how you deal with them and turn them into something good.
