We sat down with Callas Dozier after the release of her stellar new tune 'Heart Gets In The Way', to discuss what influences shaped her unique sound. Be sure to check out the single at the bottom and follow her on socials!
"When I think about the music that has influenced me and my musical style, it’s tough to pick just five. There are so many great artists and songs that have been a part of my life’s soundtrack, foundational to my appreciation for music. Growing up in a home full of music all day and night, I was exposed to may different artists and genres. My parents surrounded my siblings and I with gospel, jazz, classic rhythm and blues, funk, and sou. While I have many favorites in these different genres, my “go-to” songs would be around love and relationships, and here are some that I have on rotation right now.
Jesus Is A Love Song - Clark Sisters
One of my favorite and influential gospel groups is the Clark Sisters. Not only do they evoke emotion in everything that they sing, but their skill and artistry shine through with their beautiful harmonies. This is evident in their classic, “Jesus is a Love Song” that displays their beautiful blend and intricate harmonies. With a hint of jazz influence, the song delivers a lovely yet complex sound with a powerful message that always touches me.
Giving You The Best That I Got - Anita Baker
Another of my favorites is Anita Baker, who I listened to religiously from a child and know every lyric to every song. While I love all of her music, the song that I love to sing most is “Giving You the Best That I’ve Got”. Coupled with a sultry melody, the lyrics speak to relationships in a real context that resonated with how I saw my parents interact and how I experienced love in good relationships. As with all of Anita Baker’s music, the writing was beautiful and relatable, and the song gives me a little joy every time I listen to it.
Forever, For Always, For Love - Luther Vandross
When I think of classic artists who will never get old, I think of Luther Vandross and his beautiful catalog of music. While I love them all, the one that’s on repeat is “Forever, For Always, For Love” which is the title track to his second solo album. The song has this romantic sentiment and beautiful melody that just fills you. The lyrics are beautifully written and make you want to give love one more try. There’s an honesty that comes with Luther’s vocal style and delivery of the song that makes it simple and real.
Time’s A Wastin - Erykah Badu
Erykah Badu is one of the dopest artists, and one of my favorites by her is“Time’s A Wastin”. She masterfully combines Soul, Hip-Hop, and Jazz sounds with intricate melody changes to create a very unique song. Combined with her uplifting lyrics, the song takes you on a melodic high full of movement and beautiful harmonies. Erykah Badu’s way of moving between genres reminds me to think outside the box when creating my arrangements and use the melody to tell my story.
The Fact Is (I Need You) - Jill Scott
Jill Scott is another artist who makes overall dope music. One of her early songs that really touched me is “The Fact Is (I Need You)”. Lyrically, it’s a heartfelt poem set to a beautiful melody. Jill Scott is also a master at combining Soul, Jazz and Hip-Hop to create music that is felt deeply. I particularly love this song because it shows how we can be vulnerable in our relationships no matter how strong we are for the outside world."
Heart Gets In The Way - Callas Dozier
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