Tami Chynn was born Tammar Anika Chin, and raised in Kingston Jamaica. Her parents were actually members of an all female band called The Carnations, while her mother was also one of the very first women trumpeters in her native country. In addition, Tami's younger sister, Tessanne Chin, is a very famous reggae-fusion recording artist. So, to say music was already in her blood would be a bit of an understatement. Her solo debut, Out Of Many...One, was released stateside on August 7, 2006, and her stellar follow-up, Primadonna, is giving the 24 year old singer-songwriter-dancer a perfect opportunity to become an international star, which she is certainly destined to be…
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Primadonna is the name of your brand new sophomore project -- Why did you choose that title?

The word Primadonna has such a bad reputation. I wanna change that. To me, Primadonna is all about self confidence, being okay with who you are, embracing all your flaws, and moving on with life. I'm the kinda girl who'll wear heels to the supermarket just as much as I'll wear sweats to a meeting, just because it makes ME feel good. Girls need to feel good about who they are, and forget about everyone else's hang-ups. Primadonna is a feel good album. I want guys and dolls to feel empowered and happy listening to it.

How does it differ to that of your solo debut, Out Of Many...One?

It's definitely different from the first album, but I think if you listened to Out Of many…One, you can see Primadonna coming. That album was definitely more dancehall/reggae based, and while this one has that undertone in some songs, it's definitely more pop/'80's influenced. I'm taking even more chances vocally and lyrically. It's another layer of me.

For the project's first single, 'Frozen,' you teamed up with Akon -- How did that collabo come to fruition?

Well, this entire album was produced by Akon and RedOne. We did it in two and a half weeks. 'Frozen' was one of the last songs to be written, and when we recorded it Akon loved it, and decided to bless the track with his crazy vocals and style. I didn't even see it coming. I was soooooooo happy! I love that song!

What was it like working with him? And, are there any other highlights on Primadonna that you'd like to point out at this time?

He has an amazing work ethic; very focused, and a master at multi-tasking. I enjoyed the experience to the MAXIMUM! As far as other highlights on Primadonna, the whole album is a highlight to me! Each song is connected to a different heartstring. It's an album I'm very proud of.

How did you come to the attention of the powers-that-be at SRC Records?

Well, at the time I was introduced to Akon, I had already released my first album in Japan and was about to embark on the making of the second album. Doug Morris actually heard a song that Akon recorded, 'Mama Africa,' and it had a real reggae vibe. It made him think that Akon and I should maybe collaborate on making some music, as he is so musically diverse. Steve Rifkind also loved the idea of us working together, and took me under the wings of SRC so that I could be prioritized in such a BIG system, and the SRC family has really taken care of me and is giving my project wings.

How did you first get started in music?

I've ALWAYS been interested in performing. I have been singing, dancing, (and) acting my whole life. My first dance class was at 2 years old. My first singing performance, when I was 8. And, acting was quick to follow. I grew up in a musical family that encouraged my love for music, so it only seemed natural that one day I would really seriously pursue music as my career. I started in Jamaica because it was soooooo important for me to develop roots in my country before anywhere else. And, little by little, song after song, people started to know who Tami Chynn was.

Since you were born & raised in Kingston, Jamaica, what particular sounds were you influenced by?

You'd think that growing up in Jamaica I only listened to Reggae and dancehall, but that's not true. Jamaicans love ALL kinds of music. We're very musically driven, and very up to date, too. In my household especially, we listened to EVERYTHING! That's no joke. But, some of my major influences were people like; Sade, Madonna, Gloria Estefan, Beres Hammond, The Carpenters, The Beatles, the list goes on and on and on!

How big of impact did your sister, Tessanne Chin, who is also a popular singer, actually have on your choosing music as a full-time occupation?

When I was 17 years old, I really took on music as my full-time job. My sister was a MAJOR reason why I chose music as my career. She is my number one supporter, as I am hers. We are blessed to both be in this business, and we're really fortunate that we have such different styles. Sisters often get put against each other in this business for the mere fact that they sound so similar -- That's not the case with Tessanne and I. We'll get put against each other for the mere fact that we share the same blood! I'm happy that we have each other. No one understands me like she does, and vice versa.

What do you classify your sound as?

It's very pop/'80's influenced. I'm scared to use the word pop, because people equate it with being somewhat empty. But, I like to think that this is pop with substance. As for the '80's influence, well, the '80's was the BEST! I love that style of music, and it really resonates throughout this album. It's easy, it doesn't take much thought. You either love it, or really love it!

Where does your lyrical inspiration derive from?

Everything, sometimes nothing -- Writing is so spontaneous. It's so calculated. It's so emotion driven. It's so not! You get my drift? It's just you, and how you're feeling at the time. On this album, I had the chance to write with writers, which was a really fun experience for me. It was so nice to get immediate feedback and encouragement, and a few "Tami that's wack!" I loved it, and it really challenged me to be better.

How do you plan on sustaining a lengthy career in music?

A firm belief in God! I have been taken up and down, high and low, far and wide, and I'm still here. I'm smarter now though and definitely wiser. But, more than anything, I've had a healthy serving of humble pie everyday that I was up or down or in between. That's the key; to never to be too big for your boots, stay humble, and surround yourself with people who never let you forget. I also think that a part of sustaining in this business is being able to reinvent yourself. But, I also think that the art of reinvention is actually the art of growing into your-self. So, I'm hoping that it will continue to be a natural part of my existence. Also, this is a business first and foremost, so be smart. If you can't be smart, hire someone to be smart for you; an intelligent, honest team is KEY! Keep God close, keep your family close, and just live and grow everyday!

What else would you also like to pursue, maybe even outside of entertainment?

I'm hoping to make music my platform to fulfill other goals. Jamaica is very near and dear to my heart, so they are first on my list. I want to be very involved with the Children and young mothers of Jamaica. I definitely want to make a difference where their lives are concerned. My Jamaican people are one of a kind, and as much as I can give back to them, I will. I also want to go into other areas of performance. I'd love to delve into the world of acting; maybe a likkle Broadway -- I want to do it all…Why not?

Would it be fair to say that you are happy with the current state of the music industry?

NO! I wish it wasn't so based on reaction anymore. I wish that the industry was more in the mindset of breaking artists, rather than jumping on the wagon once the artist has done all the work. I've been lucky to have a great manager, Jules Dougall. I like to call her my WOMANGER, who leaves no stone unturned, and genuinely cares about me and my career. And, I'm lucky to be with a label who wants to break this project out into the world. That wasn't always the case for me though. So, I've been on both sides of the fence. This side (is) much better.

Since everyone either knows you already, or will become familiar with you, for and through your music, what would you want these same people to know about Tami Chynn that they won't get from listening to your record(s)?

Um…Hmm…I dunno. I've kinda put myself out there. I had a bad dream about whales last night. There's something you didn't know.

What would these same people find you doing in your off/spare time completely away from the music?

SLEEPING! I spend a lot of time with my family whenever I can. I like to watch movies in my spare time, and I love to cook. I also like to stare in my refrigerator, and contemplate on when it's really necessary to go to the supermarket again.

Thus far, what has been the biggest highlight of your career?

Performing in Jamaica on a high school tour for the prevention of A.I.D.S. -- That was (a) major one for me. I loved going to the different schools, getting a positive reaction, and spreading a good message -- All in a days work.

Looking ahead, say, 5, or even 10, years from now, where do you see yourself?

I'll be a mommy for sure. I plan to have my own mini army! By then, I would have recorded a few albums, did a few movies, maybe one Broadway musical, several foundations in Jamaica and across the world, 7000 pairs of new shoes, and probably 15 pounds heavier.

As for the immediate future, what's next for you -- New single & video, 'Frozen,' out soon? Sophomore album, Primadonna, scheduled for release when?

The video is crazy, unbelievably ME! The single is about to blow up, and Primadonna will be out in the summertime -- Fun time…Crazy time…Sexy time -- YAY!

Any plans to take the Tami Chynn show out on the road anytime soon?

I can't wait for the day. In the meantime, I'm gonna be doing some shows with Akon across the world, and one day I hope to headline my own 'Primadonna' tour!!!

For someone who hasn't experienced you perform live, what would you tell them can be expected?

I have a lot of fun on stage. I love to dance, and get involved with my audience. I talk a lot on stage. I love to make jokes, and just have a great time. Performing is so much fun for me, you can't even imagine! Come to a show and see for yourself. Whatever your thoughts may be, just remember, Tami Chynn had fun!

Do you have any parting words?

This was over to soon….Booo Hooo Hooo! Thanks to everyone who has supported me up until this point. Thanks to everyone who took the time to read this. And, thanks for taking the time to allow me to babble for so long. Nuff love, and thanks again -- PRIMADONNA BITCHES!!!! Can I say that?

LAST MONTH'S BEYOND HIP HOP - MYA