Nonya Songbird Whitley‘s list of achievements in the music industry reads like a “bucket list” to many aspiring musicians. The incredibly talented vocalist has performed live at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, NY and at Tarrytown Music Hall in Tarrytown, NY. She has done theater performances at Antonia Arts Academy under music director and choreographer Scarlett Antonia. Nonya has also performed live at the Paramount Center for the Arts/Paramount Theater for Black History Presentation. She is a 3 time nominee in the category of “Best Female R&B Artist” at DMV Awards. She was also Nominated for best R&B music video at DMV EMA Awards. If that wasn’t enough, Nonya founded the company, Healing Harmonies, which serves the Geriatric community and Rehabilitation Centers.
Ms. Whitley took time from her busy schedule to answer some questions in this EXCLUSIVE interview…
Hi Nonya! Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us today. You’ve performed everywhere from the famed Apollo Theater to Tarrytown Music Hall and the Paramount Center for the Arts. Where has been your favorite place to perform, and where haven’t you performed, that you would love to?
I would have to say the Apollo Theater was one of my favorite places thus far. I’m a native New Yorker and the Apollo gives a real challenge. You have to bring it when you step out on that stage or else. I haven’t yet performed overseas. That’s definitely something I’m looking forward to in the future.
You are a member of the armed forces. Thank you for your service! How do you think being in the military prepared you for a career in music, or was it the other way around?
Yes, I’m an Army veteran. It’s funny you ask. Another soldier let my drill sergeant know that I enjoyed singing. So from that point on, they would drag me out to sing. I remember initially being too shy. Until they stuck me out in the pouring rain until I did. And if I didn’t sing loud enough, I had to stay there until I belted out the notes. I was soaking wet. So I would say, they sure pushed the shyness out the window. So in essence it did help prepare me. A different type of artist development so to speak.
Tell us about Healing Harmonies. What is that all about?
Healing Harmonies is a company I started to provide entertainment to those in Geriatrics and those in Rehabilitation Centers. Years ago, before I joined the Army, I did private home care for the aging and I noticed there weren’t a lot of outlets for the disabled/elderly. Through trial and error, I learned that many enjoyed when I sang their favorite songs to them. It had a calming effect. And in many cases, if I sang songs they were familiar with, they would join in. For those with dementia and problems with motor skills, it helped them. They would be reciting the lyrics and clapping their hands. I believe music helps heal by bringing joy to a person’s soul. One day we’ll all get older. And quality of life is important. I’d like to help preserve the quality of life. They deserve that.
You’ve done everything from arranging to backing vocals and jingles, including a recent campaign ad promoting Michelle Smith for Maryland Senate. Which is your favorite thing out of these, the arranging, jingle singing or backing vocals, and why?
Overall, arranging vocals is my most favorite of all. It’s like putting puzzle pieces together. I enjoy lead singing, but to see where things fit together is more of a challenge for me. Mostly everything I do involves an arrangement. If I’m working with another artist, I study them and their works. Then I begin to customize an arrangement that fits their style and the message they want to convey. And I put the Nonya stamp on it. My signature sound.
Congratulations on your award nominations. Tell us about the DMV Awards. What are they? What were you nominated for?
The DMV Awards cater to D.C., Maryland and Virginia. People in the area vote for their favorite artists. I was nominated for Best female R&B artist 3 times and once for Best music video. So many great artists were in the category along with me. In 2018, I received the DMV Standout Award was an Entertainer. Brother Maniac who organized some of the events, continues to recognize people and their craft to honor their works. It’s always a blessing to be recognized for your hard work. It’s good to know people enjoy what you do.
Do you have a new single out, or coming out? Please tell us about it.
I actually do. I’m working on a solo R&B project and have several collaborations in the making. Usually I’m working on other artist’s projects. But, I plan to drop some classic R&B. For the grown and sexy folks.
What’s next for Nonya Songbird Whitley? What is on the horizon for 2021?
Hopefully 2021 brings about good health and prosperity for all. This has been a rough year for all of us. It has taught me to really make each day count. So my plans are to continue to serve others who may not have a voice. And continue to use my gifts wherever they’re needed. That’s what brings me joy. I hope to expand in the future and incorporate helping the youth dig deep to find what their gifts and talents are. To lead by example and keep the positivity flowing.
We wish you all the best!