With hindsight as our guide, time has shown that Kandi Burruss has been the central and driving force behind the development of the contemporary canon of women’s empowerment music. As a member of Xscape, Kandi contributed her vocals to a string of gold and platinum R&B classics, like “Understanding,” “Who Can I Run To” and “The Arms of the One Who Loves You.” Although an accomplished vocalist, Burruss would make history as a songwriter. Her songwriting and production credits include the following groundbreaking singles: “Bills, Bills, Bills” (Destiny’s Child), “There You Go” (Pink), “4,5,6” (Sole), and the unforgettable, GRAMMY-winning “No Scrubs” (TLC).
In the months following her win at the 2000 GRAMMY Awards, Kandi Burruss became the first female recipient of the ASCAP [American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers] Rhythm & Soul Music Award for "Songwriter of the Year." The accolade would go on to blaze a well-paved trail for a host of African-American women. As a matter of fact, in 2001, the subsequent year, Beyonce Knowles would follow in Burruss’ footsteps and win the “Songwriter of the Year” award at the ASCAP’s Pop Music Awards.
Upon the release of B.L.O.G., Kandi Burruss’ highly-anticipated sophomore solo release, the talented singer/songwriter managed to squeeze some time out of her busy schedule and settle down for an interview with Clayton Perry — reflecting on Queen Latifah, “Leroy Jones,” and the difficulties girl groups face.
It’s hard to believe you are almost at the close of your second decade in the music industry. What factors do you think have contributed to your longevity in the music business and the entertainment industry?
Well, I think my ability to be able to do more than one thing. I didn’t get stuck into, “I have to be the artist. I have to be the one that’s in front of the camera.” Some people are stuck in that mode. I’m not. I’m comfortable being in front of the camera and I’m comfortable being behind the scenes. Either way, I love music, so I know that I’m going to do something constantly. My grind is I don’t put a relationship before my business. Women have the tendency to do that. I’ve never done that. I’ve always had the understanding of, “Okay, I have to make this happen. I need to do this. I need to do that.” I don’t know. I guess I just want it. You got to want it, right?
Article comments
1 - getitgirl
dear Kandi, please except my condolences on the lost of your fiancee. Death in any way is hard to except.
I feel just from watching the show your a strong sister with your little self standing up to nene.It is your faith in God that will allow you to rise even higher than you will know. Never let your mind wonder why because at the end of the day we know God makews no misstakes. As you continue through this journey because thats exactly what we all are doing is going through life journies remember this is Kandis Journey the can either join you or be left behind never let anyone block your vision.
p.s. please take all mistakes with love and if you can make kim song a hit i wonder what i could do in a studio. love you
2 - T Richards
My husband and his brother has a band they play music like Chris Daughtry and i didn't know since you was a producer you could look it over and get a feel if they even have a chance of doing something in the music world. i don't know if you can email me from this page but i live in Ga so it would be easy for me to bring you something to listen to
3 - M. Jackson
Dear Kandi,
My name is Monga Jackson M, and i live in Australia in a town called Shepparton for 5 years now.I come from Africa in a country called Congo. I live with my family here in Australia.
I enjoy listening to your Music, and i really love your Voice. I am also a singer and love singing soo much. I have a band Called the Angels Voices and im the lead singer. we perform around Australia and we play some African Treditional Music.
You are such a strong Musician and that is a gift from God. I always wanted to sing with you or to record a song with you! My dream is to become a profesional musician like you. Please help me because that wat i dream.
4 - Tracey Wright
Hello Kandi,
I was wondering if you would be interested in becoming my 17 year old son producer. He write and sing his own songs, inspired by the Maker.
He writes gospel worship, gospel rap, etc. I have been trying to assist my son as much as I know how but unfortunately, I do not know enough about the business.
I think you did a wonderful job working with Kim but I do agree that she got over with the proceeds for the song. Fortunately, you will not have to
work that hard with my son, being the fact that the Lord has gifted him with a beautiful voice to sing.
I think becoming a producer and assisting others achieve their goals and dreams is a calling you should answer Kandi. I can tell by your character on the show that you are very trust-worthy, loyal, honest and even maybe a little crazy :) (just kidding) but really if you think you will be interested
Thank You Kindly
Tracey M. Jones, Wright
5 - Suffie
Scrubs was definitely mainstream. I'm white and I loved that song. Kandi is very talented.
6 - marlon marsh
Just want to say I admire your character from the show and wish u were in love with me ha ha ha have a BLESSED life big up