As Normani continues to gain success as a solo artist, the former member of R&B group Fifth Harmony says Kelly Rowland has been her inspiration while navigating through the music industry.
According to USA Today, Rowland, 40, and member of the iconic girl group Destiny’s Child, is familiar with transitioning as a solo artist after spending a large portion of her career in a group. But, after years of comparisons to best friend and lead singer Beyonce, she decided to make a name for herself. Both singers and third member, Michelle Williams, went solo after releasing their final album Destiny Fulfilled in 2004.
Rowland dominated the R&B world with multiple hits, including “Motivation” and internationally with “When Love Takes Over” with David Guetta. When she’s not performing or recording a new record, the singer has been a mentor to other artists, including girl group June’s Diary, and it looks like Normani is the latest addition to the list.
The “Wild Side” singer, 25, recently interviewed with USA Today and explained that Rowland is one woman in particular who keeps her focused on her musical goals.
“Kelly Rowland is someone I’ve always looked up to and never felt like I couldn’t go to for advice,” Normani told USA Today.
“She’s a great person all around,” said Normani.
While the singer has not announced new music with Rowland, she has turned heads in the industry with her single, “Wild Ride,” featuring rapper Cardi B. The song’s sultry yet, raunchy lyrics and jaw-dropping visuals leave many wondering when she is going to release her debut album. However, the singer hasn’t revealed any details on the project, USA Today reported.
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Normani says there was a “challenging” time almost a year and a half ago when she says she started to fall out of love with music.
“So many things around music can kind of jade the experience and how you feel toward that thing that you really love to do. She kinda helped me get back to that and my initial purpose in music,” says Normani, whose years in 5H included racist online attacks against her and a falling out with former member Camila Cabello before the group disbanded in 2018.
Normani has channeled her philanthropic side as she partnered with T-Pain, Google, and Youtube to help black-owned businesses. The “I’m Strung” rapper/singer featured the 25-year-old on his new single and reportedly coupled with a shoppable film that showcases Black businesses, and with just one click, you can make a purchase.
In a statement to Essence, the “Dancing with a Stranger” singer said, “I was so honored to be a part of this because I’ve always known the importance of showing love to those who keep our communities thriving. And I couldn’t have chosen a better person than T-Pain to work with on such an incredible project.”
