Q: What are your thoughts on American Idol without Simon and Paula?
A: They were two big personalities and I feel as a team they made the show hugely successful. They are missed.
Q: How did American Idol help with Broadway?
A: I learned how to pace myself on Idol and the American Idol’s Live Tour. Idol was like a boot camp. The schedule was intense. I didn’t get to rest much, because I was either learning a new song, doing press, recording, rehearsing or taping a FORD commercial; so I learned how to balance a jam-packed schedule and how to pace myself. Just like Idol, “Dreamgirls” is very demanding on your vocal chords and your body, so I try my best to get my cardio in, meditate, drink plenty of water/tea/fluids and go out there and have fun. On Idol I was so focused, I forgot to take in the experience. I wanted this tour to be different; so now I’m taking in each moment, and I’ve been having the time of my life.
Q: What has been your favorite part of being in a traveling show?
A: The opportunity to travel the world and meet the people who are inspired and moved by what I do. I love show days when my call is 7:30pm, because I get to explore the city and visit the landmarks. Oh and shopping is always fun in my down time. I’ve become addicted at times in certain cities. I have been in many cities where I am completely exhausted from the show, so I have no energy to get out of bed and explore; but the days I have energy I always make the best of it.
Q: Can you relate to your character at all?
A: Most definitely. We both grew up in poor neighborhoods, but we were driven and ambitious. Like Deena I’ve always wanted to do more than just music. I’ve always seen myself as an ARTIST doing films as well. I can relate to a woman in search of herself; her dreams and aspirations and breaking free of doing things to please everyone else.
Q: What are your post tour plans?
A: I am working on my debut album. I’ll be going back to L.A. after the tour hitting up the studio hard. I’m being patient on putting out my album until it’s at a place where it embodies all that I want to say. I also plan on pursuing T.V. and Film. Film and Television have always been a dream of mine.
Q: Who has been your biggest inspiration?
A: My parents. Growing up having bi-cultural parents (my father is Puerto Rican and my mother is Bahamian) at a young age I was exposed to all genres, so I have a strong appreciation for all types of music. I have them to thank for my versatility and open-mindedness. I grew up watching my mother sing. At the age of two I would follow her around the house singing.
Q: Will you put out an album?
A: Yes. It’s been a very exciting and rewarding process recording and working with Grammy Award winning Songwriters and producers. I’ve had the opportunity to work with some prominent names; Diane Warren, Evan Bogart, Scott Cutler and Anne Preven (Listen), Reo (Beyonce’s Hello) Chris Rojas, and many more. I will keep everyone posted on dates and info. on my websitewww.syeshaonline.com and of course my twitter and FB ( /Syesha )
Q: What is the best fan meeting you have had?
A: There has been so many. I love the people who support me. They are like my friends. One day I’m going to give them a special name, just not sure yet what it will be. I recently had an encounter in Tokyo, Japan. A young couple; Two musicians were waiting for me at the stage door before the show. The girl was so shocked to see me her hands were literally trembling and she was speechless, as she covered her mouth in disbelieve. They ended up coming back several times…each time bearing gifts. They even made me a scrapbook of drawings and all the pics they took of us together. Inside they wrote a letter to me in English about how moved they were by my performance. It’s supporters like that and their thoughtfulness, appreciation and continued love that makes me feel so grateful and keeps me in this business. I continue to succeed because of their support. I do this for them, so that I can touch their lives for the better and inspire them to go after their dreams