Winnie Ama
Winnie has been described as part of, “a new breed of electronic artists.” Through the use of “conscious lyrics, soulful alternative RnB vocals with pop and dance and rhythms”, it comes as no surprise that Winnie is already well on her way to a very successful career.
If Winnie looks familiar to you it may be because of her 2019 appearance in Photo Vogue. If, on the other hand, she sounds familiar, it could be because of her “commercial music debut in 2019, writing 3 songs in collaboration with Francis Groove that made the top 10 in MusicWeek's UK Urban/Black Club Chart - Can't Wait #1, I Swear #7 and Born to Win #6. Her solo debut 'What Are We' was in MusicWeek's Black Club Chart for 6 weeks, peaking at number 11. Since 2022 she has been the resident artist for the Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival -Belfast, One Night Records - London and Bert's Jazz Bar - Belfast.”
As well as music making, Winnie plays an extremely important role as a lead data analyst for the Why Not Her? Movement which campaigns for gender equality in the music industry. An issue which certainly needs addressed. She also mentors’ other artists as well as having a weekly radio show on Colourful Radio for new Future Soul and RnB music. As well as all these things, she is also a DJ and has performed DJ sets at the Southbank Centre and Electric Picnic.
Winnie explained that while she has always had a love for music, for a long time that was simply as a consumer. “I was in a few choirs when I was in university, but never sang solo until I started writing. I wrote all my early songs for Francis Groove before I started writing and performing for my own artist project. I met Francis Groove in Hungary, in the street. He had a friendly face and so we became friends. I had just moved there and I hardly knew anyone so I was very keen to make friends. Years later, he posted a song on Facebook and I had written a song which I also posted on Facebook and we started talking about music and he invited me to collaborate with him.”
“I'm curious, I like doing new things, understanding people and the world. I love the pursuit of knowledge. I'm grateful for everyone and everything in my life. I believe that each moment and person brings something interesting and unique to learn from.”
Winnie is nothing short of a wonderful songwriter. Winnie tells us that she switched from writing poetry and stories, to writing music. She says, “I write about the things I would put in a diary. I used to keep a diary, but I find songwriting is even more therapeutic and way more fun. I just put melodies and words down, in my voicenotes and notes, and I aim to explain how I feel in a clear simple way that people could say back to me.”
Her music is described as 'soulful pop music.' She also describes some of her music as 'upbeat dance music' saying, “It's constantly changing and evolving its sound. Each song is for a different energy or moment. I think it will always change, but it will always be pop music.”
While many artists enjoy the freedom of working alone, Winnie tells us that she loves to collaborate. “I'm an extrovert. I get my energy from other people. I love the process of making something with like-minded people. I also work alone too. Each part of the processes is important but if you were to force me to either work alone or with someone forever, I'd choose working with someone.” She takes that a step further saying, “I guess what makes us all different is our personal experiences and perspectives.”
“I'm a massive fan of Ella Fitzgerald's pure tone and Nina Simone's raw honest performances. I study both of their styles, their intention and energy. I draw a lot of inspiration from both. I also love Etta James for her genuineness and vulnerability in her performances.”
Winnie usually gigs once a week, although not always with the same band. “I perform nearly always with Jonathan Cariaga on guitar and I have two full bands which makes it easier to travel through UK and Ireland. When she plays in London, her band consists of Greg Hummell (guitar and keys) and Mike Nash (drums). When she plays in Belfast, however, she performs with James Toal (drums), Matt Evans (Keys) and Pete Close (bass). “Both bands are full of excellent, down to earth, patient, fun and incredibly talented people. I am aware that I'm very lucky!”
I asked Winnie about her favourite gig to date. She talked about the time she performed for the Queen's Jubilee in Paris. “It was unbelievable. So fancy. The party was in an old palace which is now an embassy for the UK. It was so special. Really beautiful location and incredible food.”
So what is next for Winnie?
Make sure you follow her and keep up to date with all her songs, events and gigs:
Spotify: Winnie Ama
YouTube: Winnieama
Instagram: Winnie_ama_
Facebook: Winnie Ama
TikTok: Winnie_ama_
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