Holly Joy: "Next Level Freak'n Crazy"
Strong. Confident. Sexy. R&B singer-songwriter Holly Joy is an inspired, powerful and proud Black woman determined to go “next level.” Ensconced in the studio working on her forthcoming EP, she emerges to flirt and seduce us, tantalizingly previewing the release by dropping the soulful and sensual single “Next Level Freakin’ Crazy,” which hit the Digital Radio Charts.
“The purpose of my single ‘Next Level Freakin’ Crazy’ is to uplift and empower women to feel comfortable in their skin, to take a seat at the table without asking. It is unfiltered, unapologetic, grown and sexy feel-good music,” said the Los Angeles-based artist about the song that has a much deeper meaning than what the title may imply.
“I enjoy writing clever songs that play on words and meaning. The kind of song that every time you hear it, you get another tidbit or aha moment. I wrote ‘Next Level Freakin’ Crazy’ while I was feeling sexy and confident in my womanhood and sensuality. But it was bigger than that. It was a moment of acceptance, of loving myself fully - flaws and all. It symbolizes taking control of my own destiny by creating my own record label, N-joy LLC, and publishing company, Joyful Soul. I set up these companies for me and women like me to have a safe place to be free to create and maintain ownership of their career.”
The EP will be Joy’s first musical step onto centerstage after having sung behind such icons as Stevie Wonder and Teena Marie. Collaborating with veteran producer Dennis Johnson (Celine Dion, Freddie Jackson, Melba Moore) on “Next Level Freakin’ Crazy” as well as on another track that will appear on the EP, the sultry old-school “Voodoo,” gave her the power to express herself, which proved freeing.
“Working with such greats as Stevie Wonder and Teena Marie, I found myself critiquing myself instead of creating. Because they are so flawless , I didn’t allow myself to be free to make mistakes. Dennis gave me room to fully find my vibe that has resonated my entire life. He opened my soul to music again,” said Joy, the granddaughter of blues legend Dinah Washington and bassist/saxophonist Walter Buchanan (Count Basie).
“My grandmother taught me to use my voice to define myself or someone else will. My grandfather not only instilled the foundation of music in me but told me the importance of respect and ownership in this business.”
Another song that will appear on the EP certain to capture attention is “Strong Black Women,” which was produced by Devon Stallion (Mario, Brandy).
“This song is a women’s anthem that will make every woman feel empowered and appreciated. I was inspired by seeing all the Black women holding down careers as well as their families and homes during these unprecedented times. Women like our new Vice President Kamala Harris, Stacey Abrams, Michelle Obama and Beyonce. It’s a tribute to their unbreakable strength and spirit.”
The camera loves Joy, a beautiful multimedia talent who has appeared in acting roles on television and in feature films boasting credits such as “CSI Miami,” “ER,” “Introducing Dorothy Dandridge” and “The Jamie Foxx Show.” After studying at the Pittsburgh Performing Arts Academy, she received several scholarship offers, including one from West Virginia State where she earned a degree in broadcast journalism and business.
“Acting is cool, but my focus is on my EP and writing soundtracks for film and television. I sang ‘Bluer Than Blue’ as the title song for the movie ‘O Jerusalem’ and have been hooked ever since,” said Joy who has an upcoming film role that was put on hold due to the pandemic. Music fans are going to go crazy for Joy.
Have a listen and connect with Holly Joy on social media:
https://www.facebook.com/iamhollyjoy1
