How did you decide you wanted to bring it to life?
I’m writing a book that is coming out in April. It’s called Shine Bright, A Personal History of Black Women in Pop. When I finished it I was so happy. I was like, “Oh my God, I’m done finally,” but then I was like, “but am I really done?” I have so much more to say. There’s so many more Black women in music that are in my book. I just started thinking about what’s a fresh way to really bring this kind of content to a wide audience. I’m just blessed to have creative partners at the ringer and Spotify, who, we just shared a vision.
What was your biggest takeaway from the episode featuring Brandy?
The main thing is her grace. There’s a moment in the show where she said something to the effect of it is so wonderful to get validation. It really makes her feel good to receive that love. She said, “I’m just happy that I’m at a place in my life where I don’t need it.” I said, “That is beautiful and so strong.” It meant so much to me to hear her say that. When I met her she was 15. To see her along this complex journey with many ups and downs and highs and lows and to hear her say that, it just made me feel so wonderful.
