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In NewsWhistle’s weekly question-and-answer series, Clara Morgan speaks with some of her favorite influencers and finds out more about their lives and careers.
Singer Genesis Jones is a gifted talent who always had an affinity for crafting and styling music.
Genesis’ aunt, Mahalia Jackson, was an American gospel singer who was also close friends with Quincy Jones. And Genesis’ mother was a back-up singer for music greats in the 1970s.
Genesis’ fondest memories involve music being played consistently throughout her home — with many artists, like Al Green, stopping by to listen, stud,y and write.
After the untimely passing of her father, Genesis formed a close bond with Quincy Jones, who encouraged her to pursue music seriously.
Soon after, Genesis found herself featured in songs and remixes.
Since then, Genesis has collaborated with Grammy-winning producer Cory Rooney (J-Lo, Destiny’s Child, Michael Jackson, Mary J. Blige, Mariah Carey), recorded vocals in support of DJ Snake for his remixes for Beyonce, Rihanna, and Lady Gaga, and worked with the legendary group Earth, Wind and Fire.
Genesis plans to release more singles this year, which will please her fans, especially since Genesis’ most popular song — “With Or Without You” — just placed No. 32 on Billboard’s Dance Club Song chart.
For more information, visit: www.genesisjonesmusic.com/
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Portrait of Genesis Jones; Photo by Mylez “Myvision100” McBange AKA Bard Foster
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1. How and when did you first realize you wanted to work in your current industry?
My mom was a backup singer for many famous R&B singers, and at one of her studio gigs someone asked if I would do a modeling job for their clothing line. When I received my first paycheck as a kid I was like “Yes!” and that’s where it all started. I can make money doing something that made me happy. I was hooked on that feeling.
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2. What is your biggest career highlight to date?
Sitting at the piano with my producer Cory Rooney, and creating the melodies, words, and chords to our music. It’s the best feeling to be taken away by music. For me, it’s the highest high.
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3. Any celebrity clients or memorable stories related to your business that you want to share?
I have so many, but all my best memories were spent with good friend Quincy Jones. We used to sit in the back of limos and fall out of our seats laughing with tears coming down our face. It’s rare to find a joyful spirit like his.
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4. How would you describe your personal style?
They made couture for me. I love high fashion, and when I arrive in Paris I have appointments with designers I enjoy working with. What I love most is that I’m the one in charge when it comes to my style.
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5. What is a typical day in your life like?
Well, I start me day in bed with my English breakfast tea. I pamper myself in the bathroom. I turn on the phone and computer while kissing my cats. That’s the best par,t cause I’m taking my time. Normally, I head to the gym with one of my great trainers. While working out I decide what I’m going to do for the day. I go with my heart when it comes to how I spend my time. I get done what needs to get done, all while wearing a smile.
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6. What are three never-miss events on your calendar?
Well I never miss any studio, writing, and vocal session, especially with super producer Cory Rooney. Also, I love taking care of myself, so I never miss the gym.
The reason I mention this is because anything after that, can all wait till I get there.
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7. What are your three favorite locations in the city you reside in?
- My comfy bed at my lovely apartment.
- Central Park is NYC’s little piece of nature!
- Anywhere my friends are. We have the best times together.
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8. What are your three favorite restaurants?
I love any and all of John-Georges restaurants. At one point I was eating at his restaurants five nights a week. This includes, but is not limited to, ABCV, ABC Cocina, Jean-Georges Steakhouse, and so many more.
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9. What about your three favorite bars?
- I love hotel bars for their exclusivity.
- I really enjoyed the Water Bar @ Colette in Paris before it closed. There is only one other water bar in Capri, Italy.
- And of course, the Hemmingway Bar because it’s small, cozy and private.
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10. What has been your best New York moment?
One of the funniest was as a kid. My family stayed at this hotel on the 20th floor and I was a prankster back then. I would pour water out the window as people walked by and laugh at their surprised reactions. Also, I love the people I meet in New York. I always have great fun in the city.
What about the worst? NEVER run out of money in New York. Otherwise, I don’t let the bad outweigh the good. Life goes on.
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11. Name your go-to:
a. Outfit: Celine
b. Fragrance: Dior Gris Montaigne
c. Movie: Fifth Element
d. Book: The Giving Tree
e. TV show. Oh god, where do I start? But I would have to go with a classic: Sopranos
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12. Name your favorite vacation spot, and the hotel you stay at while there. What makes these spots special?
I absolutely love the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Rock in the South of France!! The sea, the food, the service, the smell in the air, the vibrations when there alone, the rosé, driving my fancy rental through the winding roads. It is literally heaven on Earth!
And I’d have to add my favorite beach spot, St Barths. I live for a beach holiday.
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13. What are your three most played songs?
- Golden Lady by Stevie Wonder is definitely one.
- With or Without You by Me, out now everywhere
- Every song from Off The Wall by Michael Jackson.
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14. What are three items you couldn’t live without?
- Music.
- Love.
- Food some of my favorites include: French fries and Champagne, together, popcorn and milk duds, and anything vegetarian at a Jean Georges restaurant.
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15. If you could meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
I would’ve loved to have met Johnny Cash. He knew himself and was unapologetic about it which was very endearing.
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16. What is something people might not know about you?
I have bionic memory. I will never forget anything. I will remember everything to my death. Unless, I don’t like you, then you’re out of mind.
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17. When did you feel like you had “made it” professionally?
I don’t think I’ve ever had that feeling. There’s always more to do, more fun to have, more creativity/music to discover, and love to give.
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18. Do you have any advice for those aspiring to work in your industry?
Be yourself and enjoy the ride! Keep it real and be aware of your surroundings.
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19. What changes do you think your industry will undergo in the next 5-10 years?
Well, I hope we will get back to making music with real instruments. I’ll never give up on that dream.
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20. Is there anything else you’d like to share, discuss or promote?
Love is the key to freedom. I’m always sharing and promoting the power of love.
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Portrait of Genesis Jones; Photos by Mylez “Myvision100” McBange AKA Bard Foster
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Images Courtesy of Genesis Jones; Photos by Mylez “Myvision100” McBange AKA Bard Foster
