INTERVIEW: MINA ROSE

Ahead of her headline show on the 13th of June at Thousand Island, London, newcomer Mina Rose sat down with us to discuss her plans for 2019, what it was like to support Jorja Smith on tour, and more…

Can you describe your sound in 3 words?
Nostalgic, Jamaican, DIY

We love your recent single ‘Run’, can you tell us the writing process behind it?
I was feeling influenced by the story of Dracula. I felt there could be a great metaphor created from it. The idea of being afraid of the light and not reaching your full potential because you’ve always been told that’s not how your life is likely to pan out and that the statistics are set against you. 

You’ve recently supported Jorja Smith on her Lost & Found tour, what was it like being on the road and playing shows like Brixton Academy?
Touring with Jorja and her team was an unforgettable experience, I really feel as though I grew in confidence with each show. To have such a warm welcome from her fans was beyond amazing. Opening Brixton Academy was absolutely incredible, the buzz you get from sharing energy with that many people is unreal. It was an amazing experience feeling so many people enjoying my music. 

What has been the most memorable show you’ve played and why?
Brixton Academy was absolutely incredible, however there is something about intimate shows that I just love. My first headline show at Bermondsey Social Club had such a warm and uplifting energy, it felt like I was part of a big family; the connection with everyone in the room was unreal. 

If you could bring 3 people to come out on stage with you dead or alive who would you choose?
Gil Scott Heron because he’s an absolute legend whose poems continually inspire my writing.
Smiley Culture another legend but this time a local legend. My first single Lemons and Limes was a tribute to the late Smiley Culture.
Finally, Fabienne Miranda. She sang one of my all time favourite Dub tunes; Prophecy. This song was seen as so political that it was banned in Jamaica. 

What has been your favourite gig you have attended?
I wouldn’t class it as a gig but a sound system called Leviticus have a tent at a festival called Beautiful Days. I’ve been going since I was 7 and part of my love for Dub was definitely birthed there. The energy in that tent is one of a kind, you feel part of a family who all have the same love for music.

What can we expect from a Mina Rose show?
Bass and infectious energy. 

What are your plans for the rest of 2019? 
The plan for 2019 is to continue creating and continuing my journey with music. A couple of tracks produced by ToddlaT are being mastered ready for release. Discovering different parts of my heritage through music. 

When and where can people catch you live next?
Catch me at Thousand Island on the 13th June! You can also hopefully catch me this summer doing a gig for Music Against Racism. 

Tickets are available HERE for Mina’s headline gig at Thousand Island, London on the 13th of June