Carlicia Conner is no stranger to music. Performing since she was 8 years old, this emerging hip-hop artist is going to make a lasting impression on the Cleveland scene. Her debut album is set to be released in the early fall. Who are your musical influences? I would have to say TLC, Aaliyah, Alisha Keys ... I like a lot of rock bands too. There is Selena, remember the Spanish singer? She is a huge influence. 3 Doors Down. I am very out there with different kinds of genres.
How did you get involved with music?
I got involved with music at a very young age. I always liked to sing. I was one of those kids who would grab the brush and jump on the table and sing and dance. It just came out of life. That's who I was destined to be.
You sang first in Spanish and now you are mainly in English. Are there any plans for Spanish tracks on the upcoming album?
Most definitely. I am a rapper and I rap mostly in Spanish. I am thinking about making two separate CDs because I have friends that I rap with on a regular basis. It's just basically a hobby and I have been rapping since I was eight years old and I think I am gonna throw a couple of Spanish verses on a couple of my songs.
When can fans expect your CD?
Fans can expect my CD in the autumn of 2009 and it's gonna be awesome.
Can you talk a little bit about the songs you performed on the Summer Concert Series?
"Tell Me" is a song that my producer-manager put together. It is a Latin kind of feel. There is a little bit of Spanish in there also, I throw an eight bar in Spanish in there. There is "Don’t Take My Love," which is another song we put together about a year ago. It's kind of funky. I like to be really flexible with my music. Last is "Hypnotic," which is a rockin' song. It's awesome, I love it. I like the energy.
What is your favorite thing about performing?
My favorite thing about performing is when my hands get clammy. You can stand up there and look at everybody and really express yourself in a way that makes you independent, makes you who you are. Just seeing the looks on people's faces and seeing them really appreciate my music and letting them know me for something that a lot of people don't know me for. Just the energy and the smiles and the surprises you give them.
Where was your first performance in Cleveland?
At Warrensville High School in 2004. I was 14 years old and I did a show for about 2000 people. It was very nerve wracking but there is a first time for everything.
Where is your favorite place to perform in Cleveland?
I have only performed here once, but it will always have my number one, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame was amazing. It was a great experience. The adrenaline was just amazing, outstanding and I think I did a really, really good job that day.
What is your favorite hang out in Cleveland?
Tower City. It is a different vibe. I love to shop and it's definitely a good thing when you are having a bad day and you just want to get away and meet some new people.
