Mother Wata is an American vocalist and songwriter. Raised in Los Angeles County, Wata was surrounded by musicians and artists heavily involved in the music industry, which gave birth to a deep desire towards her crusade to stardom.
Wata’s multitalented father Deon “Gangsta Dee” Barnett of the Compton duo ‘2nd II None’ is largely responsible for Wata’s introduction into the music industry. Along with a mixture of her father’s love of Hip Hop, Wata’s mother Latisha Chappell, a former performer of the “Young Saints” introduced Wata to the sound of Rnb, Jazz, and Blues. Wata’s musical influences range from Alternative R&B and Afropunk to Hip Hop. Wata composes genre-less music that combines future and past sounds into a tale of the now.
The Nuance Magazine team got to catch up with the rising artist. In the exclusive interview, you will find out more about Mother Wata, her experience on ‘The Cut’, and creative processes in front of a camera.
What's the biggest challenge you had to overcome in music? On the Cut?
I can honestly say that the biggest challenge I’ve faced in music was before I was cast to be in the “Red Bull The Cut” series. I feel like I was fully prepared prior to the taping of the series because I took time as an artist to go through development. As an artist, I felt comfortable from start to finish.
If you didn't become a musician, what would you be doing right now?
If I wasn’t a musician I would be a full-time fashion designer. I’m a part-time designer at the moment but I love the balance of making music and designing clothes. I feel like a superhero sometimes because I’m able to switch back and forth whenever I choose to do so.
Describe the feeling when you found out you’d be on the cut?
When I was cast on “Red Bull’s The Cut” I immediately felt like this was definitely an opportunity to showcase my musical talents to the world. I just felt ready. I felt prepared and anxious at the same time. It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever felt to be truly honest.
What was it like collaborating with people you had never met?
When it comes to collaborating with another artist, I’m honestly used to it. I know that I’m able to adapt to any sound. I wasn’t worried at all with who I would be paired with. Luckily, I was paired with Versus XX, who is just like me when it comes to creating. I would say that our creative process went extremely smoothly. I trusted him as a producer, and Versus trusted me as an artist.
Did the presence of a camera crew add pressure to your creative process?
The camera crew was amazing! They honestly made the whole process fun. Their presence made me extremely comfortable because they always checked on me to make sure I was good and comfortable. Anything I needed they looked out. Honestly, this was the best camera crew I’ve ever worked with, and that’s on mamas hahaha
What was it like working with OG Parker?
Og Parker is a pioneer, so working with him was just as amazing as it looked in the series. He gave incredible feedback to me and Versus that helped take our track to the next level. I’m honestly looking forward to working with him in the future.
What are your plans after appearing on The Cut?
My plans after “The Cut” would be to continue doing what I’m doing right now. I’m releasing music and content consistently. I’m making the best music of my life right now so continuing to focus on that is my goal. I’m blessed to also design my own clothing brand called “House Of Wata” that is branded under the “ETNLA” warehouse that I’m established under. Since the show series I’ve landed big placements such as Lyrical Lemonade featured on Dave Coresh track “OUTOFTHEBLU”. I’ve also landed a placement with Belgium rapper Woodie Smalls featured on his track “Mood”. Both tracks being produced under 1245 MPH. I feel like as an artist I’m in a great position. I can honestly say that I’m blessed to be able to establish myself a creative. I'm truly living my dreams.