Check out our chat with the lovely Talia Coles…
ROB BRAYL: Your father played with James Brown and Wilson Pickett. I assume you grew up submerged in some sweet music?
TALIA COLES: Yes, music was a staple in my house. I was blessed to be around such authentic expressions. Great musicians are not always honored for the genius they possess. I can’t begin to tell you what that was like, being so intimately connected at such a historic time.
RB: Can you explain ‘Nikki Wine’ to those who may not have heard the single? Is ‘Nikki Wine’ an alter ego label? A la Sasha Fierce?
TC: [Laughs] No…’Nikki Wine’ was inspired by an old reggae song by General B. called ‘Nikki’. When my producer played the track I just started singing those words in a different melody and it stuck. It was really catchy and everybody started singing it! Although I think Sasha Fierce is a phenomenal alter ego, I Love Beyonce — I guess it would’ve been great for the story but that’s not quite the case. ‘Nikki Wine’ is no alter ego just the name of the song.
RB: Speaking of labels, you are also passionate about clothes and have your own line. I would imagine your music helps to inspire ideas for your designs?
TC: Music and fashion go hand in hand as far as the value that I have when expressing ones individuality, but fashion is its own beast and I treat it as such. Music whispers in my ear but fashion screams in my face!
RB: As a songwriter you’ve worked with some pretty heavy names (LL Cool J, Musiq Soulchild, Teddy Riley, Slim from 112, among others). But I’m most curious how it was like to work with Tyler Perry. What’s the story there?
TC: I worked with Tyler indirectly, I spent most of the time with Kevin Liles, Joel C High (Music Director) and Jojo Brim who oversaw the soundtrack. So when Tyler got the music it was pretty much stamped. He liked it so that made it even better.
RB: Where is Talia Coles headed? And for those just now jumping on the crazy ride with you, what can we expect?
TC: Talia is expressing her truth and living her dream. I’m coming from a place of contribution and looking to push the culture forward!
