While many music critics say the look and sound of popular music has become almost standardized, up-and-coming music artist Wish has stepped out onto the scene to break those cookie cutter notions and deliver a fresh sound and look.
Wish, born Tinesha Purviance, grew up in a tight knit family on Baltimore’s west side. Her love for music began at the ripe age of 7, when she began singing in a choir at a local church. It was then that she discovered her ability to sing and the joy she found in being in front of a crowd. From then on, she nurtured her craft with various performances at local events. To further her career in music she moved to New York.
In 2009, she produced her first promotional album, Skool Gurl Diaries, which she described as very personal. The album captured the attention of music blogs and fans alike, resulting in thousands of copies downloaded and handed out. In November 2010, Wish’s dreams came into fruition when she signed with Jive records, whose roster includes music superstars like Anthony Hamilton, Usher and Justin Timberlake.
Wish has performed in various shows along the East Coast and has even opened for rapper Lupe Fiasco. On May 27, she released her second project entitled Opening Act: The Wishtape. The video for her first single, “Suga Daddy,” made waves all over the web and was even shown on MTVU.
After receiving such a positive response from her two singles, “Suga Daddy” and the vogue dance inspired hit “Feel Your Beat,” she decided to release her album early. Just one day prior to the album’s drop, Wish gave Baltimore an exclusive listen to her sophomore project. After an energy-filled performance of a few of her songs, she spoke with the AFRO about her music and future.
AFRO: How would you describe your sound?
Wish: I would say it’s an equal mixture of pop and R&B, or pop and R&B fusion. I’d like to call it progressive R&B —R&B with a pop kind of feel.
AFRO: Who inspires you musically?
Wish: I’m inspired by a lot of people . . .Cee Lo Green, Britney Spears, Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, Queen, The Beatles — a lot of people.
AFRO: What’s one song you just can’t live without; you have to hear it at least once a day?
Wish: “The Show must Go On” by Queen. That’s one of my favorite songs.
AFRO: What was your favorite track from your mixtape?
Wish: It would have to be “Warrior.” It’s the last song. It’s a ballad that I think is so inspiring and it can help people keep pushing through their trials and tribulations.
AFRO: What are some of the obstacles you’ve faced as an emerging artist?
Wish: I would say, trying to define my lane. I think a lot of people are judging me, based on my single “Suga Daddy” and the {Wishtape} is here to let everybody know that I am a versatile artist and to expect more than a just a Motown-driven track.
AFRO: Who are you currently rocking out to on your iPod?
Wish: Frank Ocean. . .I love him.
AFRO: If you can change one thing about the music industry, what would you change and why?
Wish: I would change imaging. I think a lot of people feel like you have to be small to be successful. I think we can get rid of that stereotype.
AFRO: When you are aren’t in the studio and performing, what are you doing in your free time?
Wish: Exercising. I like to exercise. Pilates. . . and boot camp. I do “Biggest Loser” DVDs.
To learn more about Wish and her mixtape, please visit wishishere.com or her Facebook page. She can also be followed on Twitter @wishishere.
