24: Introduce yourself to everyone that doesn’t already know who you are.
Nefatari: My name is Nefatari and I’m a singer/songwriter representing New York to Jamaica, West Indies.
24: Before we get into your music, can you describe your history about how you got into and what inspired you?
Nefatari: I started in the entertainment industry as a model. I’ve done runway shows for Tommy Hilfiger, ads for Dell Computers, and several hair ads and magazines. I decided that I wanted to pursue music seriously, so I started as a background singer for Lindsay Lohan and Emma Bunton (Baby Spice from Spice Girls). After the background singing, I became a member of 2 girls groups, Kizmet and Oppositz Attract. Both of the girl groups split up, so I finally began to pursue music as a solo artist. Music is my passion and first love, and I’m a firm believer in following your dreams, which is what inspired me to pursue music.
24: What was the Hip-Hop scene like for you growing up where you’re from?
Nefatari: I grew up in New York and a large part of my life and was surrounded by music. Music was a huge part of everyday life in my neighborhood. I can remember hearing it blast from people’s cars as they drove by on my way to school or to dance class. My family is Jamaican so a lot of reggae artists were played in my house such as Dennis Brown, Bob Marley, and Sanchez. Music and fashion were also closely related, which are both my passions. In Jamaica and in New York part of what makes you “cool” is your style and how u dress, but also what you’re playing from your car or who you listen to in your headphones.
24: What makes you Unique as a artist and different from other rappers out now?
Nefatari: What makes me unique is my upbringing which translates into my music. I was raised in the U.S. and listened to a lot of hip hop and pop so my writing reflects that. However, I have a Jamaican background so my delivery in songs and the tracks that I like to record on often reflect my West Indian roots. Mixing the two give me a sound that is special to me and defines me as an artist.
24: Tell us about what you are working on.
Nefatari: I just released my single “Day U Mess Up” produced by Echo One productions and dropped the steamy new video to go along with it. I’ve been spending a lot of my time doing promo for the single and video. I’ve also been in the studio writing and recording working on records.
24: What producers have you worked with and who would you like to work with in the future?
Nefatari: I’ve written and recorded with Grammy nominated and award winning producers such as The Heavyweights, Jason “J-Vibe” Farmer, Austin “PayDay” Green, and Ron Feemster. They have all been influential in working with me as an artist and honing my craft as a songwriter. Some of the producers on my wish list are Salaam Remi, Bangladesh, Diplo, Sly & Robbie, and Rico Love. I like those producers because of their unique style. Most of them are all producers who create songs that don’t sound like your typical pop or R&B record.
24: Are you happy with the feedback you have been getting from people on material you have released?
Nefatari: Yes the feedback has been good, I cant complain. We’ve been getting great feedback on “Day U Mess Up”. Dj’s tell me they love the beat on the record. It’s an easy record for a DJ to throw on and get people to start dancing in the club! The ladies tell me how much they love the men in the video! …and the fellas like the eye candy too! 
24: In today’s free download age, what do you need that you don’t to make yourself a household name?
Nefatari: I think the first step is to deliver great music. You have to create music that is catchy and that people can relate to. Since everyone’s music is available on the internet, it creates more competition and higher standards. At the same time it gives independent artists an opportunity to get their music heard. Besides the music, there are other things that can be used to build your name and create a buzz such as style and image.
24: How do you feel about the current state of the Hip-Hop scene?
Nefatari: I think the state of music is evolving. I listen to all different types of music so I was happy to see acts like M.I.A. and and Nicki Minaj on stage with Madonna at the Super Bowl. I would like to see more positive portrayals of women in the music business and in videos, but we will get there eventually.
24: Outside of the music, what else are you currently working on?
Nefatari: Music takes up most of my time right now. However, I am gearing up to make a guest appearance modeling in YardRock’s fashion show in April in New York.
24: Where do you see yourself going in 2012 and how do you plan to separate yourself from the other artist out today to get the recognition you feel you deserve?
Nefatari: Continuing to build my company as a true entertainment company along with branding Mr. 704 and bringing Carolina artists to the Industry. I separate myself by staying consistent and speaking my Carolina Story on a real life level.
24: How can fans go about contacting you?
Nefatari: Twitter: @NefatariMusic
Facebook: Facebook.com/NefatariMusic
YouTube: Youtube.com/NefatariTV
24: Thank you for providing 24HourHipHop with this exclusive interview, do you have any last words for your present and future fans?
Nefatari: Definitely support independent artists and keep your ears open for NEFATARI in 2012. My song “Day U Mess Up” is available now on iTunes and all other digital stores. Keep pushing and follow your dreams!
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