Originally uploaded by djwhelan

Our very first Monday Mix featured a pop song from a talented artist who I believe is destined to shine. MoZella has an incredibly soulful voice and some of the most genuine and heartfelt lyrics. She is the type of artist you’ll listen to and think to yourself, “She should be on VH1’s ‘You Hear It First’,” because you know you are listening to something utterly amazing. While MoZella is definitely making a name for herself (having toured with such artists as Colbie Caillat and Lifehouse), she has not yet lost sight of her fans and how important they have been in her quest to pursue a career that she loves.

Almost A-List: Your music blends many genres and you are a very versatile singer-songwriter. What is one word you would use to describe your music?

MoZella: REAL. I guess the songs blend so many sounds that it’s hard to describe what it is. I just do what I do and it comes from my heart.

AA-L: I read your blog about your recent trip to Costa Rica, which seemed like a fun, eye-opening experience. Was there a moment in particular that had the greatest impact on you?

M: Costa Rica was amazing. The happiness of the people was profound. By American standards, some of the people would be very poor, but life is okay for them. They are lively, loving, and energetic. That taught me a lot about perspective.

AA-L: Your new song “Four Leaf Clover” (which we featured in our Monday Mix), is a very genuine and heartfelt song. What was your inspiration for writing it?

M: Four Leaf Clover is a song about finally getting it right. I wrote it about having my luck change and meeting that right person that got me back on course. It’s hopeful. I felt like I needed a hopeful song.
Oddly enough, I found a four leaf clover in my back yard a few weeks after writing that! Maybe it’s a sign!!!

AA-L: What was one awkward or embarrassing moment that you’ve recently had and how were you able to bounce back from it?.

M: I’m not overly critical of myself. So I’m sure I do really stupid things all the time and just don’t know it! LOL! I try not to over think. If I hurt someone I say sorry (and mean it). If I make a mistake, well at least I tried.

AA-L: If you could do a duet with any artist or band, who would it be and why?

M: I would love to do a duet with Mana, the Latin rock band. I LOVE the lead singer’s voice. I would also love to make a jazz record with Herbie Hancock. He’s SO inspiring.

AA-L: In your MySpace “Bio” section, you talk about how you waited tables and decorated cakes—which one was worse?

M: I LOVE cake decorating. It’s very relaxing. So I guess waiting tables was harder. Dealing with jerk customers is never fun, but I found a way to enjoy it. Looking back, there was a lesson to be learned, and I’m glad I went through all of that.

AA-L: Since you have come a long way since then, what are some words of wisdom you can give to those rising artists out there?

M: Believe in yourself. Know yourself. Work hard. Enjoy the moment. Don’t listen to anyone’s criticism unless they are more successful than you.

AA-L: You’re signed under Warner Bros. Records, which has produced some of the most well known and respected artists to date. At the same time, however, you seem more “DIY” in terms of promotion than many artists that are signed under major labels. Do you find it hard to balance this sort of dichotomy? Do you think there are any advantages or disadvantages to this?

M: I actually just left Warner Bros. I had a one album deal with them, and now I’m looking to make a record somewhere else (maybe a major or an indie or NO label at all). The music industry is so crazy right now that you HAVE to self promote to get anywhere. I realized a long time ago that the major label was limited in it’s promotional capabilites with me. They can’t sell records like they used to, therefore they can’t spend money they don’t have on promotion. Realizing this, I did everything I could to make and keep fans via myspace, facebook, youtube, etc. And those fans go with me no matter where I go to make a record!

AA-L: In the same respect, you are very connected with your fans because you communicate directly with them. Do you think it will be harder to maintain such a strong relationship with your fans in the future as your career progresses?

M: I will always be close with my fans. They are the reason I make music. That connection is what keeps me going. I get all sorts of emails and I try to write back to every single person that I can. I don’t want to be up on a throne. I just write songs from my heart. The people that enjoy those songs have a bond with me. So, no matter what level of fame I attain, I’m still the same person and those fans helped me get there.

AA-L: What is next for you in 2008? Any plans to go on tour?

M: I’m going to make another record first. Then hit the road as soon as I can. I love to tour. I can’t wait to share the new music!!!

For more updates fronm Mozella, visit her MySpace.