Rising R&B singer Mookie Tolliver is putting on for his city in a major way. Hailing from the small town of Madison, Illinois he is proving that you can accomplish any goal with hard work, determination, and faith. Coming off the release of his More About Love EP, he is at the top of his game musically. Every song reminds you of how important the R&B genre is in today’s society. Having good music to vibe to when you want to slow down a little bit is key, especially during the pandemic. I had the pleasure of catching up with Mookie for a candid conversation discussing his new EP, his musical influences, and the challenges of breaking into the mainstream music circuit.
How has life been since releasing More About Love?
Since the album has dropped, I gained more traffic to all my music and social media platforms. I have also gotten some great blog placements and interviews. The feedback that I have been getting is amazing. I have been told by some of my listeners that my music is honest and relatable. My music has helped people get through their tough times and relationship problems. For me, that is more than a blessing.
How do you remain creative during quarantine?
This pandemic has been unfortunate but it has allowed my team and me to create a marketing strategy that would help me remain consistent during this time. We came up with “Mook Music Monday“ because we thought it would be a good idea to keep people entertained at home. On Mondays, I sing song covers and post them on my YouTube channel and Instagram page. I also take requests and engage with my supporters. I think it’s important to build a good relationship with my audience.
Who has been the most influential person pertaining to your music career?
I would have to say that it is more than one person that has been influential to my music career. Usher, Trey Songz, Lyfe Jennings, and R. Kelly are the most influential to me. I find all of their music to be very authentic and relatable. There have been times when I’ve heard one of their songs and said to myself, I wish I wrote that.
What advice would you give someone growing up in your hometown looking to have a career in music?
I’m from Madison, Illinois where many people don’t make it to the top. My advice to any upcoming artist from here would be to study the art of music, stay consistent, believe in yourself, and always remain humble. You must understand that you can’t please everyone. Some people will like your music and some won’t. Some people want to see you make it and some don’t. Not everyone will be a fan of your music and that’s okay. Keep grinding and surround yourself with strong minded solid individuals and you will be fine.
What has been your biggest challenge as an artist trying to break into the mainstream music market?
Maintaining a substantial budget for marketing is the most challenging. Without having a label or investors behind me, I have to work harder and use all of the resources that I can.
What is up next for Mookie Tolliver?
I plan to continue to study the art of music along with learning the acoustic guitar and keyboard. I have done a couple short films in the past. I find it challenging and quite interesting. I would love to begin acting again. Follow me @MookieTolliver on all platforms to be the first to know what’s coming next. I will have more music, videos and tour dates coming soon.
In the meantime, press play below to stream his More About Love EP.
BLACK&GIFTED 