Photo courtesy of Nicolette K.
INEZ is a Pittsburgh based singer-songwriter, musician, producer, and audio engineer who is quickly gaining attention in the local music scene. Unapologetically breaking down barriers and refuting long held stereotypes by bringing out front and center the discrepancies between artists and opportunity while becoming an essential collaborator in the exciting and burgeoning local R&B/Soul community. Working with and not against is an attitude and way of creating that INEZ understands fully. I want to thank her for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Hmmm. It’s a blur. I think it was Musiq Soulchild or Beyoncé.
Your last album bought?
Chapter One by Sinéad Harnett — I stream a lot but the last purchase was Chapter One.
Favorite album of all time?
3-Way Tie: Aretha Franklin Amazing Grace – Lauryn Hill The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill – Stevie Wonder Songs In the Key of Life.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
The last few Alicia Keys albums to me have fallen flat. I really looked up to her in my formative and developmental years. Her first 3 projects are special to me. Every album has a message and a purpose and of course as you live life, your writing tends to evolve, but I’m still looking for the soul she once had in earlier projects, even if sonically she evolves.
First concert attended?
Usher / Kanye West / John Legend (2003)
Last concert?
Smino in Philadelphia (2019)
Favorite concert ever?
Jazmine Sullivan at TLA for NYE 2016; her encore of “In Love With Another Man” still gives me chills.
Least favorite concert?
I wouldn’t say least favorite, but the balcony acoustics at the Roxian, paired with loud talkers ruined the Snarky Puppy show for me.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
The Pittsburgh’s Very Own 2 Show with Sierra Sellers, Leila Rhodes, Simone Davis, myself, DJ Femi and Clara Kent was an amazing experience. I am proud to be part of a growing moving of Black femme musicians, producers, djs, singer-songwriters and artists, here in Pittsburgh. It was a very special moment for all of us to share a big stage in support of Blues, R&B and Soul. Our chemistry and energy together is beautiful. As the Pittsburgh City Paper article stated, “Solidarity over competition” — we really are working hard to keep creating a unified space here for our voices and gifts.
Thanks, INEZ. I love your attitude and willingness to be a part of a much needed and growing impetus to identify and correct problems within the musical community. Solidarity is so important and I am thrilled that artists like yourself are willing to represent that.
#SupportPGHMusic
#HughShowsXV
