Interview with Cashma

Cashma is an R&B artist raised in the small town of Barnesville, GA. As the only child of her black dad and white mom, Cashma grew up seeing both sides of the world and often felt like she didn’t fit in.

Seeking solace in the music of one of her biggest inspirations Sade, she gradually learnt how to be unapologetically herself and her music is a reflection of that. Moving to Atlanta at a young age, the introspective introvert has now created a space and sound all of her own.Her new album Purple Apartment is the result of having her own place to live authentically and to focus and craft her music. Cashma confides, “I’m very introverted so having my own space has always been really important to me. My home is my world. It’s where I party, relax, feel safe, laugh, cry, cook, enjoy my friends, do business and overall where I’ve built my brand. I wanted this project to feel the way I do when I’m in my space, a getaway from the noises of the world. A little piece of heaven.

”Working alongside producer Mike Kalombo, Purple Apartment is coated with a nostalgic 80’s flair. Silky, soulful vocals, shimmering synths and vibey, hypnotic melodies provide the foundations for the album, with Cashma showcasing her velvet vocal tone and ability to pen indulgent R&B anthems.

Purple Apartment is the third installment of her purple trilogy which includes 2020’s Purple Mosquito and 2021’s PURPLE LIGHTS. Wrapping up the trio of albums, the final release sees the artist challenging herself to be raw and vulnerable with her feelings. The intimate 12-track release is centered around love. Love of self. Love of the moment. Love of a person that you’re getting comfortable with and just want to spend all your time with. The songstress reveals, “I like writing what my soul tells me. It’s therapy. I let my spirit guide me on feeling. That’s what matters to me.

”Listening to the album is like reading personal diary entries from Cashma. She unravels stories from her own life, such as “My First Apartment” which touches on the mixed emotions of being alone for the first time and “I Dress For Me” which speaks about dismissing other people’s judgmental attitudes. Her honest storytelling lyrics give us a glimpse into her life, creating a strong connection between both the artist and her listeners.

With a dedicated fanbase of people across the globe and over half a million streams for her music thus far, Cashma is quickly becoming an artist to watch.

How would you describe the music that you typically create?

Emotion. Human emotion. I think there’s all these feelings we have that sometimes can’t be described in words. Music to me is that gateway to express those things and I think my music does it beautifully.

What is your current music project about?

Moving into your first place and the mixed emotions that come with it. Sometimes it feels freeing and other times it feels like you don’t know what you’re doing. I moved into my first apartment last year March 7th and spent the whole year writing about those feelings. I decided to call the album “Purple Apartment” and release it on the year anniversary of my move in date. It’s 80’s inspired sprinkled with synths and nostalgia all over.

What’s next for you?

Enjoying life. I’m really into my experiences right now and the woman I’m becoming excites me. I just want to be fully present and aware during these moments.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?

Never be afraid to say no. All opportunities aren’t good ones and if you have to sacrifice what you believe in that thing probably isn’t for you and you’ll be happy you passed on it. Alignment is everything.

Where was your last song recorded?

My home studio actually. It’s such a blessing to have one because I’m so big on my own space and being at home really. Creating in the comfort of my home will always be my favorite option.

Do you sing in the shower? What songs?

Yes, I do. Mostly my songs, Sade, and all the good oldies.

What was the last time you dressed up for fancy dress?

I’m so weird I’ll dress up and stay at home just because I want to take pictures or look nice for myself. So that was the last time. I wrote a song on my recent album called “I Dress For Me” Which talks about dressing up fancy in your house just because but then also have days you might wear sweats and a tee but feel just as good.

You are a new addition to a crayon box. What colour would you be and why?

Probably some off shade off purple that isn’t already in the box. I’m naturally attracted to that color and think it describes my aura perfectly.

What was the last TV series you watched on TV?

Probably the rewatch of Stranger Things. It’s such a classic and the 80’s vibes give me so much nostalgia. I’m counting down the days until the new season.

What would be a good theme song for your life?

Good question. Maybe solider of love by Sade.