(November 21, 2023) Like many artists who are seeking to follow their musical dreams, Jamila V worked throughout the Detroit local scene as a soloist and featured vocalist to craft her talents. Always cheered by various family members and raised by parents who were proponents of music and other arts programs, the Baltimore born artist would have plenty of soulful tools to offer.
Eventually, someone came alongside to nourish Jamila’s gigantic respect of soul music’s riveting power she coveted in childhood, bringing her into the recording studio. That special mentor was Anthony ‘AJ Sparks’ Jones (George Clinton, Edwin Starr), a veteran musician/producer. Once in the studio, Jamila soaked up what a production session entailed (from arranging to engineering).
Now signed to MCM Global Team (home of SoulTracks regulars The Detroit Emeralds), Jamila V and Sparks deliver grooves and attitude for her debut single. Our latest First Listen, “Gotta Get My Groove On,” simply is about avoiding mind games in a relationship mine field. Once she understands her scenario, Jamila confidently maps out a new game plan hanging out with friends and joyful endless nights – with a funky steppers touch. And Sparks’ production navigates older school soul with modern tweaks complete with piano fills, in the pocket bass and drum hits, and a tasty guitar solo. While a debut full-length is on the way, in the meantime check out “Gotta Get My Groove On,” an impressive introduction to Jamila V’s vocal skills.
By Peggy Oliver
Jamila V – “Gotta Get My Groove On”