Interview: Meshach Broderick of Blessed Voices

‘Blessed Voices’ is a unique and incredibly successful gospel group made up of four young men: Kwaku, Mwshach, Cameron and Jermaine. Since forming in 2000, they have toured around UK and Europe, were runners-up in the Choice FM Night Flight Talent Quest in 2001 which was followed up by winning Channel 4/Lion TV ‘Gospel Group of the Year in 2002. In the same year, they supported Mary Mary as part of the KICC Golden Jubilee celebrations. More recently, they have performed in Wembley Arena, Hackney Empire, on Radio 2 and won a GEM award for their latest single.

Here Meshach Broderick, 23, gives Smaart Talent an interview and advice to others interested in getting into the music scene:

How long have you been involved in music?
I would say all my life! So I guess that means 23 years! ;-)

Has it been hard work getting your music/performances recognised? What have you had to do?
To be honest, myself and my group Blessed Voices just went out and started performing in shows when we formed the group just over 5 years ago. Things have just progressed from there.

What key advice would you give to someone who wants to succeed/work in a musical career? What pit falls should they avoid?
Work tirelessly at your craft and be inspired, NOT intimidated, by other musicians/artists/vocalists. Avoid becoming a "sound-a-like". In other words learn from the Ushers, Beyonces and Michael Jacksons of this world but always be yourself, be original and try to add something fresh and unique to the musical landscape, albeit naturally.

What has been your biggest success so far?
Blessed Voices being named Channel 4 Gospel Singers of the Year 2002 and also winning a GEM Award for 'Best Single' in 2005

What are you up to now?
Working on new music and going to the Barbados Gospel Fest from May 22nd-29th

Who are your main influences?
There are so many! I wouldn't know where to start! However I would say that when I started to really take my vocals seriously I was inspired by the vocal prowess of D'Angelo, Maxwell and Joe.

If you could duet with anyone, who would it be?
To be honest I don’t have anyone specific now! There are too many talented artists to choose from!

What did you study at university and has it been useful in your music work/career?
I studied a BSc in Banking and International Finance. It hasn't influenced my music directly, but I would say that it has been instrumental in keeping my mind open to the business side of the music industry.

What's your opinion of shows like X factor and Pop Idol?
They are a good laugh for starters! But seriously I think they can be a good source of exposure for those who have no contacts in the industry. Unfortunately, it tends to be all about "who you know" in the music industry and this can be a stumbling block for many talented individuals. However, building up contacts is easier than you might think because as they say, "It’s a small world" and nowhere is this truer than in the music industry.

Want to find out more about Blessed Voices? Check out their websites on www.blessedvoices.com
OR
www.myspace.com/blessedvoices