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.”
What’s your story as an artist?
I grew up as the only child from my black dad and white mom. I grew up seeing both sides of the world so turned to music to make sense of it all. There it felt like a safe space to be who I was. Being introverted and shy I found my voice and confidence through music. I’ve since released three albums and have created a space to be boldly myself.
What do you want your music to communicate?
I want to communicate love. I want the frequency of my art to make you feel something when you turn it on.
What are some sources of inspiration for your storytelling?
I would say my source of inspiration is my experiences and what I see. I’m inspired by human emotion and conveying it through music
Who is an artist that you look up to more than others today?
Sade. I love how you can turn their music on and let it play while cooking, cleaning, or just vibing at home.
What’s the record or artist that made you realize you wanted to be an artist?
Mmm good question. Probably “We Belong Together” by Mariah Carey at age seven.
Tell us about your latest release and how it came about
I moved into my first apartment last year on March 7th. I spent that whole year making music about what I felt during that period of being on my own for the first time. 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.
What inspires your sound?
I think my sound relies heavily on what I’m going through at the moment. I’m constantly growing so my music reflects who I’m becoming. I’m very introspective so a lot of the times my music feels like a diary entry.
What’s your favorite tune of yours?
Hard question but right now I would say “Body Love”. I love the 80’s feel and good vibes behind that record.
Where are some things you really want to accomplish as an artist?
I’m really getting into learning guitar right now so having that as an accompaniment makes me happy.
Favorite lyric you ever wrote?
“Sometimes I want you close to me
So close I breathe the air you breathe
Then other times I rather be with me
In my house alone with nobody
I know you love me but give me some time
To paint my nails , accept my fails
In my alone time
Be in my glory with no worries
Give me time to not text you back in a hurry”
Was there ever a moment when you felt like giving up?
Yes briefly lol. But it’s too embedded to ever really let it go. You know when something’s for you.
What is the best advice you’ve ever gotten?
Don’t be afraid to say no.
Where do you think the next game changer will be in the music industry and entertainment scene?
I think it’s happening already. Now more than ever you’re able to connect with an audience without having a major record label. I think this will continue as time goes. I enjoy being independent and having creative control with Kalombo Records. There’s a special type of love I have for the organic build.