These are some of her favorite places to perform because the vibe is and always has been welcoming there. In the Bay Area it’s been the Grand Live, Brick and Mortar, and Yoshi’s. In New York it’s been SOB’s a couple times, Vasaar College when she opened up for Solange, and the Boiler Room most recently.
Does iLL Camille have a tour planned? That’s funny you asked, because I’ve been presented with a couple touring opportunities. My team is looking into that now, trying to pair me up with some acts that match my vibe and style of music. I honestly can’t wait to tour. Matter of fact, that’s apart of the reason why I am even involved in doing music…to reach and connect with as many people from around the world as possible. Brazil, France, South Africa, Toronto, they've been showing me so much love it's incredible. Definitely ready to get my passport stamps up.
Other than deciding to work for yourself as an artist what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success? That’s a good question says iLL. The one decision that I think created a “turning point” for me was when I decided to keep being myself. There’s so much pressure to change, to conform and be something else…talk about things in the without expecting anything in return, and I appreciate you ladies, especially April for holding it down like that. My friends, my family, the people who tweet about me, share my Soundcloud, visit my website, buy my music, come to my shows. The folks who told me in order to make it I’ll have to change who I am and the folks who told me to stick to my script. Everyone has equal importance. I am inspired and encouraged by everybody…so thanks to all of ya'll.
"There’s always challenges (she says with a laugh) for iLL Camille and my career. The music probably wouldn’t be as good if there weren’t any challenges, but I welcome them! I’ve had to deal with losing sessions, a severe case of writer’s block, industry BS, switching studios and engineers. Like I said, no matter what, theres going to be setbacks, but I’ve been blessed with a strong mind and sense of resilience. I can keep it pushin’ no matter what." One thing iLL Camille has always rebelled against was sticking to a certain script. "Yes, I rap but I am a song writer as well. Yes I am Hip Hop, from every angle, but I grew up in a household where soul, jazz, afro-latin, and experimental music were played consistently. If I wanna sing, add regiment horns, zydeco or anything else to my records I am gonna do it. I'm not afraid of any push back I'll get from those that say I need to only do long, lyrical, rap verses. Having people try to confine you and categorize you will be a challenge if you aren't mentally prepared and ready to say F-that. LOL."
Today you can catch iLL Camille play in Los Angeles, New York, the Bay Area (San Francisco and Oakland).
music that may be entertaining but that are not true to who I am, or what I represent. There were points where I was like “ok, maybe I should make myself a little sexier”, times where I thought “dumbing down” my music would make it more appealing. Once I figured out there’s no one that could express myself better than I could I decided to make sure I put all of who I am in every song. That’s the key to my formula now. Staying true to who I am, and being transparent about it.
Any advice for anyone out there interested in becoming a RAP/R&B artist? Find yourself a mentor in and outside of music who can help you stay grounded. Have someone in your life that is going to encourage you to take leaps of faith, but also talk you off the ledge. I am fortunate to have people in my circle who support my wild, crazy ambitions, but REAL enough to tell me when I’m f*cking up. You need balanced people to make it in this music industry.
Shout outs from ill Camille: I definitely wanna take the time to shout you ladies out for the continuous support. It’s rare to find people who just want to push your movement forward
By: Rag House
Photo By: Marlin A. Munoz