Navigating Narratives: Patty Johnson on Art, Identity, and Cultural Transformation

Send us a textThe GlamazonVictoria Wilson-James is an American-born British singer, songwriter and record producer. Born and raised in Gary, Indiana, she performed in various theatre plays and musicals as a teenager. Following the release of her debut single "I Want You in My Movie", she was recruited by Jazzie B to join a newly reformed line-up of R&B group Soul II Soul. Managed by her bandmate, Jazzie B, the group became one of London's best-selling groups of all time. Their second album, Vol. II: 1990 – A New Decade (1990), which achieved gold-status in the US and UK,[1][2] featured the top-charting single "A Dream's a Dream" with Wilson-James on lead vocals.[3]Following her exit from the group at the end of 1990, she released her debut solo album, Perseverance (1991), which contained hits "Through" and "Bright Lights".[4] In 1993, she joined the Shamen and continued performing and recording with them until their disbandment in 1999. In 1997, she released her second album Colorfields, which featured one of her signature hits "Reach 4 the Melody". Wilson-James has also appeared in various theatre musicals including The Wiz (2001), Purlie (2004), and Lush Life (2005). She formed a duo called Avitas and released an album titled A Course in Miracles in September 2005.In June 2012, Soul II Soul received the honorary Heritage Award from Performing Right Society, which Wilson-James also received despite not being able to attend.[5] In March 2013, she released her third album titled The Rapture.In 1988, she released her first single "I Want You in My Movie" on Risin' Records. In 1990, Jazzie B recruited Wilson-James to join British music group Soul II Soul after the departure of their previous members Rose Windross, Doreen Waddell, and Caron Wheeler. In May 1990, Soul II Soul released the second single "A Dream's a Dream", which featured Wilson-James on lead vocals; from their album Vol. II: 1990 – A New Decade. The song peaked in the top-ten of the UK Singles Chart.[6] In the same month, Soul II Soul released their second album Vol. II: 1990 – A New Decade, which peaked at number one on the UK Albums Chart.[6] The album also became certified gold-status in the United Kingdom. Wilson-James also toured with the group in the summer of 1990. One of their concerts was recorded at Brixton Academy and released in September 1990 titled A New Decade: Live from Brixton Academy. Following the conclusion of the tour, she left to pursue a solo career.In late 1980, she began recording her first album, which would be produced by fellow Soul II Soul member Jazzie B and composer and musical director Michael J McEvoy. On March 26, 1991, she released her first album Perseverance, which peaked at number 55 on Billboard's R&B Albums chart.[4] In March 1991, the album's lead single "Through" was released and peaked at number 22 on Billboard's Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.[4] She also promoted the album by performing on various musical variety shows including The Party Machine with Nia Peeples, Soul Train, The Word, and Video Soul. In July 1991, she released the second single "Bright Lights", which peaked at number 83 on the R&B Songs chart.[4] The album's final single "One World" was released in late 1991.In June 2013, she released her third album The Rapture. The album spawned the singles "Never Stop", "Deep in Vogue", "Say It Ain't So", and "Red Lipstick". In November 2016, Wilson-James began her one-woman show tour called "Perseverance".[20]In November 2017, Wilson-James released a single titled "Pray".[21] The song is part of "P.R.A.Y. (Project Resonance Ascension Yantra)" and was released as a free download on her SoundCloud page.[21][22]Support the show

Send us a textJoy Langley faced unimaginable losses in just four years, experiencing five devastating family bereavements. In 2018, she lost her 23-year-old son. Two years later, her sister and niece passed away in 2020, followed by both her mother and father in 2021. These consecutive tragedies left her grappling with profound grief, a loss of self-confidence, and overwhelming emotional and mental challenges. Despite this, Joy continued to run her stress management business, even though daily emotional triggers often made her question whether she could carry on.During this time, it was her deep emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and background in professional therapy that helped her persevere. Slowly but steadily, her confidence returned, and she regained a sense of self-empowerment. This journey inspired Joy to support other entrepreneurs who, like herself, were managing businesses while facing hidden psychological and emotional struggles.Joy began sharing her mental and emotional journey on social media, advocating for authenticity in entrepreneurship. Her story highlights the complexities of being an entrepreneur—striving for independence and personal freedom while navigating life’s toughest challenges. Through her work, Joy empowers others to build resilience and embrace strategies for mental wellness, enabling them to follow their own paths with courage and confidence.Support the show

Send us a textJonva, known to many as the "Legend", is an American artist, musician, humanitarian, international music producer, mentor, songwriter, and Berklee College of Music-Boston Masters scholar based in New York. Jonva is also the host and executive producer of the much acclaimed podcast show "LiveLifeBHappy/24/7", streaming on Amazon Music around the world. From the very tender age of 2 years old, music has always been Jonva's life passion and dream. Jónva began his musical journey studying with world-class jazz pianist Alex Darqui, a bandmate of the great Jaco Pastorius and a protege of the iconic Herbie Hancock. Jonva has worked with greats like Ben E. King and an array of performers around the world. Jonva debuted his talents on his 2022 4- song EP release of the Jonva Experience Project 2.0 , with artists from Shanghai, the United Kingdom, Amsterdam, and the United States.The Legends' most recent studio collaboration project, "Somedays,'' highlighted Jonva's skills as a co-producer with the Abbey Roads Studio team; featuring UK artist Adam Wedd and Atlanta native Aqthesinger.Ven continues his journey with new collaborations in 2023 as he teams up with the multi-talented American actress, writer, producer, and artist Caren Lyn Tackett. Caren is best known for her work with 4Kids Entertainment, which includes titles such as Winx Club, Pokémon Chronicles, Shaman King, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Tackett has worked in various Broadway productions in New York City, including Hair, Rent , High Fidelity , Brooklyn, and The Times They Are A 'Changin'.Jonva recent musical venture, brings him to the United Kingdom back for another studio project collaboration with indie artist and songwriter BBFEENIX.  Together they release their  "Quantum Music"  EP collaboration to the world, titled "Tomorrow's Goodbye"Support the show

Send us a textDaniela M is a London-based independent singer, songwriter, and music educator, with deep roots in both the UK and Italy. A graduate of Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, she blends her passion for neo-soul, jazz, pop, and Italian music into a unique, soulful sound. Her songwriting explores themes of personal strength, relationships, and introspection.Daniela has performed internationally, sharing stages with artists like Robin Banerjee (former guitarist of Amy Winehouse) and Ray Gelato (The God Father of Swing), and has been featured at iconic venues like the 100 Club and Southbank Centre. As a session vocalist and topliner, she collaborates with independent labels and producers in Pop, R&B, Jazz, Indie and Electro swing genres. She released her debut single "Lies" in 2021, with more original music on the way - the new video drops end of September 2024 and a new single in mid-November called "Waiting".Beyond her artistry, Daniela is a dedicated vocal coach and founder of The Great Windmill Studio, offering artist development and recording services. Daniela has also assisted on two European tours for Gypsy jazz Argentinian guitarist virtuoso Gonzalo Bergara and secured for them a sponsorship with Duende Percusion.She looks after outreach and creatives programmes at London College of Contemporary Music, bridging the gap between creative talent, higher education and the music industry. Equally at home managing events and collaborations, she has worked with notable guests such as Dr. Matthew Knowles (Beyonce), Fraser T. Smith (Adele, Kae Tempest), Leig-Ann (Lil-Mix) and charitable organisations like Youth Music. Her love for jazz even brought forward the partnership between EFG and LCCM too! Daniela is a passionate advocate for gender equity in the music industry, dedicated to empowering the next generation of musicians, hosting panels, events, meet ups. She is also the founder of W Creative Studios, a nonprofit organisation that connects emerging artists with vacant spaces in central London, fostering opportunities for creative growth and collaboration.Social Media Handles Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2eCCW0XJhzfSKDaorEQu0lInsta: @dani.e.la_musicTikTok: @dani.e.la_musicYoutube:@DANI.E.LA_musicSupport the show

Send us a textAndy Corrigan is the founder and director of Viva La Visa. As an experienced music and touring veteran, Andy wanted to ensure that tour managers as well as other organisations had access to assistance when navigating complicated visa, work permits and travel documentation.Andy created Viva La Visa in 2009 and now has a team of visa and immigration specialists for the music and creative industry (and beyond), who aim to streamline the visa application process and enhance the overall experience.Viva La Visa is a one stop shop when it comes to passport and visa needs, with a high success rate and an array of experience, the team focus on providing seamless hassle-free visa services across all nationalities and to any destination.Viva La Visa was created by Andy Corrigan in 2009. As an experienced musician and touring veteran he wanted to ensure that tour managers, as well as other organisations, have access to assistance when it comes to navigating the complicated 'minefield' of visas, work permits and travel documentation. Our experienced team of visa experts are dedicated to working closely with clients to ensure the best chance of success with all applications. With an office based in scenic Suffolk, we make sure to place you in the best possible position for a positive outcome.We have a high rate of returning customers and word of mouth referrals, and we strive to offer excellent customer service drawing from our combined knowledge and practice.Many of our clients use us as a ‘one-stop-shop’ when it comes to their passport and visa needs as we simply take the stress out of the process. Showbiz travel can be a complicated undertaking, and if done incorrectly can restrict future travel plans, and thus impact on a career overseas.Although the music industry is still central to the company today, we have organically grown over the years and now we work with actors of both the stage and silver screen with varying levels of distinction, models, sports stars, business executives, conference delegates and sightseers!The fashion industry is thriving, we assist model agencies with visas and passports for their models and photographers based all across the world. Andy has a company that works with the best of the best including Elton John, Beyonce, Ed Sheeran & Dua Lipa .. https://www.vivalavisa.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-corrigan-05965b6/?originalSubdomain=ukPhone: 01473 892660Support the show

Send us a textAduragbemi Afe, whose stage name is Singer Afe Paul is a Nigerian musician.He resides in Lagos, the commercial hub of Nigeria. He is an epitome of meaningful music.He's been practicing music for over 10 years and teaching music for over 5 years.He specializes in teaching foundational violin, Viola & Guitar.He is a vocal and singing coach at Superprof Nigeria.He co-founded a start up music school hoping to expand better.He is a tenor at The City Choir, Nigeria.LINKShttps://www.linkedin.com/in/afe-aduragbemihttps://youtube.com/@SingerAfePaul01https://about.me/aduragbemiafeSupport the show

Send us a textMark Noble is an English artist based in Somerset, UK. His works shine a new light on the under-valued aspects of the world in which we live. Often specialising in landscape paintings and abstract work, he infuses his worlds with a melancholic and spiritual beauty.After a difficult time at school (dealing with autism and severe dyslexia) and spending nearly 20 years working in a local plastics factory, Mark set out to pursue his dream of becoming an artist. Inspired by the work of Turner, he expresses the mystical, dream-like and sublime, through delicate attention to the commonplace or overlooked.Mark has exhibited paintings across the UK and Europe and has received interest from as far afield as South America. He is currently running art workshops to encourage those who, like him, have creative dreams yet to be fully realised.Work was recently sold at a large exhibition in London (the OXO Gallery) to raise awareness of Parkinson’s Disease and paintings are on display in several other galleries around England. In March 2021, Mark became an ambassador for a charity called 'Outside In' – their aim is to assist and promote disabled artists. He is also busy working on private commissions, exhibiting, developing new ideas and getting children involved with art (one Lottery-funded project involved children painting a mural at a local school in Glastonbury). In 2022, Mark also became an 'Inclusivity Ambassador' for 'Creative Portal'. This is an innovative website where artists from all disciplines can showcase their portfolios to industry professionals. Mark is helping to attract charities/organisations and encourage disadvantaged young people to sign up, get involved and express themselves creatively.Moving forward, Mark wants to promote environmentally friendly art as much as possible. His ‘Driftwood Collection’ features art painted on recycled materials such as old tiles, window frames, bark and even old coffee table tops!https://marknoble.art/Support the show

Send us a textHarry is a 19 year old artist, writer and producer. Working on his craft since 12, Harry has since appeared on The Voice Kids UK in 2019 working with Jessie J, got to the final of the Song Academy Young Songwriters Competition as well as releasing some original music along the way too.Ready to release his debut album, Harry’s music is honest, open and not only starts a conversation but covers those stories in beautiful pop melodies everyone can appreciate.https://www.harryhatchermusic.com/Support the show

Send us a textImagine the challenges of breaking into a male-dominated industry as a young female drummer—Grace's journey is a testament to resilience and passion. We had the privilege of speaking with this inspiring musician and gender equality advocate from Liverpool, who shared her remarkable transition from the drum kit to academia. In this episode, Grace unveils the groundbreaking research she's conducting as part of her MA and PhD, focusing on regional gender inequalities in the music industry and shedding light on the unique hurdles women face, particularly in less centralized music hubs.Amidst the discussion, Grace reflects on the persistent gender divide in Liverpool's music scene and broader societal challenges. We delve into how initiatives like the PRS Foundation's Accelerator Funds are making strides, yet significant gaps in entrepreneurship funding for women remain. Grace eloquently discusses the alarming setbacks in rights for marginalized communities, stressing the vital need for allyship and the amplification of women's voices to foster a more inclusive industry. Her insights are a powerful reminder of the societal issues that intersect with the creative sector, affecting everything from mental health to career advancement.In a compelling exploration of visibility and representation, Grace underscores the importance of mentorship and reconfiguring music history to include women's contributions. Her innovative project, "Genie," serves as a beacon for gender equality and diversity within the industry. We contemplate its potential global impact and address how structural changes can support marginalized communities. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical advice for anyone committed to promoting equality and diversity in the music world.Support the show

Send us a textPatty Johnson is a health psychologist who enjoys creating art related to spirituality, culture, justice and other bizarre and beautiful intricacies of life. She's the author of Where the Tiger Dwells, a memoir about her very Indian Christian parents who are giddily in the process of arranging her marriage while she becomes faint at the thought of telling them she’s having her secret American boyfriend’s baby. She has also written Essays of Night and Daylight, on movement through life as she explores ideas on womanhood, race and immigration. She ponders comments such as, “What are you?” and "Oh, you speak such good English!" She wonders about the shame behind her grandmother's tribal tattoo after being visited by Christian missionaries. She revels in the making of chai, this earthy elixir that reminds her of the power of each brown-skinned woman. Patty has written for Thrive Global, The Southern Poverty Law Center and other publications, and was selected to give a TEDx talk on changing the narrative of inequity. She has been selected to attend an artist residency at the Chateau d’Orquevaux in France to work on a second spoken word album with music producer, Mr. Echoes.Instagram/Threads: pjtemple7LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patty-johnson-psyd-b6b17a6b/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/PJ-Temple-100063894044528/?paipv=0&eav=AfYzj4iYijtt-QUOkCeBOR2U-jqMp4c7BCxqWRK8naNgVvfWP6eWDIBvYa1UpTxzg_c&_rdrAuthor Website: www.pjtemple.comPsychology Practice Website: www.niahealing.comTEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yirkuT7zVWgSpoken Word on music: https://open.spotify.com/track/4mIvawYglG9Q3EkAp7dwOuSupport the show