LIVE TO TELL - Q&A WITH JULLY BLACK
10:38 PM Posted by MS.NOVA
Because I don't want to be the only one telling all my bizness to the world, I've asked some fantastic, determined and tenacious ladies to get in on the fun. The have agreed to answer FIVE QUESTIONS about their lives, the good, bad and ugly and why they are better because of it.
Some of these ladies you know of and need to know. Trust me, have I steered you wrong?
: )
I'm kicking it off with a familiar face from my hometown of Toronto. Ms. Jully Black has been the backbone of R&B in Canada for, well a freaking long time. Check her resume. Jully demonstrates tenacity, dedication and true strength - physically (5'10), vocally and spiritually. Raised with 'nuff love by a tight Jamaican family (single mom, paid $1.68/hour, raised nine kids) in Jane & Finch (tough Toronto turf) and made a way - because there was no way already there - to mainstream music videos, radio, national tours, TV appearances, awards shows, commentator, guest judge, host and whatever top shotta role she can fill, Jully DID IT. And you can't knock the hustle.
FYI she was completely candid when answering these questions in hopes of encouraging YOU with HER honesty and not one word has been edited. Meet, Jully Black.
1. Of the Three Steps to Love Yourself More - Acceptance, Accountability and Action - which one have you struggled with the most? How did you overcome that?
I would say Acceptance. I had a hard time growing up as a 5'10 twelve year old girl who was often labelled as "fast" simply because I was more developed then my peers. I had a hard time accepting that without the scars on my legs from the corrective bone surgery I had to have a kid, I may not have had a social life much less a career. And the list goes on.
I have to admit that being able to write songs from a place of honesty at a very young age started my healing process. To this day, I still turn to songwriting to help not only me but anyone who will allow me to be their voice through song. I also, found outlets that celebrated the beauty of what I thought were "issues" like being a part of the basketball, Volleyball and Track club all throughout middle school and high school.
But really, the most powerful way I was able to overcome my issues with self love was to claim my power even before I believed in it. I decided to DARE TO BE ME and to truly accept that I am the best me there is. The reward is I now get to pay it forward. Thank you for this opportunity.
2. Describe a challenging time in your life and explain why you are better for it?
I suddenly lost my 24 year old sister when I was twelve years old and sadly she left two infants behind who I then had to step up and be a mini Mom to. My Mother of course was around but because she had to work, I had to learn a lot of mothering skills quickly that I believe made me stay on the straight and narrow when my friends in high school were turning up pregnant in as early as grade eight!
I'm better for it because I had the opportunity to be a positive influence for my niece and nephew who grew up to be amazing people. I do miss my Sharon dearly though and would give it all up just to hear her voice again.
3. What attributes did you have to bring forth in order to achieve your goals? How did you stay on track?
In order to achieve your goals you need to focus on the journey rather then the destination. You need to stick to your vision even if you've had it since you were 10 years old. You also need to be able to share your goals with people you trust so that there is accountability on your part to truly do all you can do to accomplish your goals.
You also need to have know what your intentions are and why you have chosen to pursue a particular goal. Finally, money cannot be your motivation. It can be a reward but it cannot be the reason why you do what you do. In order to stay on track you have to love what you do and be in it to win it.
4. What is the best advice you’ve even been given and when in your life did it help the most?
Alicia Keys said to me you need to get rid of the people in your life who are focused on the obstacle rather then the possibility. This advice was so helpful when I parted ways with my management of 6 years just a little over a month ago. We all reserve the right to our opinions but we all have to choice to stick around sake of fear or leace in honour of happiness.
5. Who are the “Girls Who Get It” in your life (famous, or not)? Why them?
My Mother Agatha because after all she has been through she lays no blame and at 74 years old she taught me "Thank God" no matter what!
My Best Friend Nkechi because she treats me like Jullyann Gordon and doesn't sugar coat things in order to protect my feelings. She is a true friend who has a famous line that I have finally learned to implement in my life and that is "You have to know your non-negotiables."
My Mentor Susanne Boyce at CTV because she believes in raw talent encourages dreamers to dream bigger and bigger and not be intimidated by people with titles. She also taught me that The wealth is in the idea.
My Niece Chantelle (The daughter of my Deceased Sister) because she has taught me that you can have a true friendship with a family member that isn't due to being related. She is one of my closest friends and 21 years old.
My Sister MJ because even though she has a physically disability that has never stopped her from doing all the things she's ever dreamed of. She taught me how to be determined and resilient and how to get the last laugh when people tell you that your dreams are impossible.
--get familiar--
NEW ALBUM DROPPING 2011 CALLED: (8)IGHT
November 4, 2010 at 4:03 PM
Great Job Nova, loved the article. Kwamster Monster
January 7, 2011 at 10:17 PM
Wow, I really didn't know all of this about Jully Black. What a candid and inspiring interview. Thank you both!