Meet It’s Called Whatever

We had the good fortune of connecting with It’s Called Whatever and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi It’s Called Whatever, we’d love to hear more about your end-goal, professionally.
The end goal is to be able to make a wide variety of people happy through the music we’re making. Also to inspire and build bridges between different genres, people and places. To also grow and have a lot of fun along the way.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
A quick answer to this is, no. It was not easy. It has been an emotional roller-coaster involving good and bad aspects. Mostly good though, otherwise, we wouldn’t still be doing this. We are proud to share the music and memories we’re making because of our close friendship we have developed while making music. The music hits different because of the memories we have while making the songs together. I wouldn’t say we’ve had challenges, maybe just growing pains. Sereena has spent a lot of time writing her own songs, so stepping into a collaboration with Joanna was a learning curve for both of us. However, the growth has bloomed into five beautiful songs written and produced together. We are constantly learning about each other and what sounds each person likes. The dynamic range of music (and personality) both of us have is a blessing and allows for true freedom of expression in the studio during the creation process.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
First and foremost we’d both take our besties on the boat and spend at least one day on the river.

Next we would do a “this is why Nashville is the music city” tour down Jefferson Street, show them around Fisk University’s campus, and then, just before lunch, make sure to hit the Sound Museum owned by Mr. Washington.
Lunch would either be at Riddm n’ Spice or at Bag lady. Or both, depending on what we feel like and how hungry we are.

Then it is nap time!

We would also make sure to go to the public library, the Frist Museum and National Museum for African American Music and maybe, but just maybe to the Country music hall of fame which would end it with a night on broadway… Just because.

Dinner would be at Smokin’ Thighs for at least one night

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Joanna: As a kid, my biggest idol was Simba from the the Lion King. However, my favorite voice in the Swedish version of the Lion King was Nala, which was voiced by my cousin, Kayo Shekoni Söderberg, also known as Le Click. She is one of the first women of color within the entertainment industry in Sweden. Watching Kayo perform was one of the highlights of my childhood and I remember telling my mom that I wanted to be like her when I grew up. As I got older, I chose a different path (academic – Social Justice) but she continues to be an inspiration. She is strong, fierce, and an incredibly talented singer, actress and all around woman. Her work inspires and encourage people all over the world. She has thought me that if one believes, one can achieve. Nothing is impossible. Throughout the years, I have been inspired by others, but Kayo will always be my number one.

Sereena: Growing up, Shania Twain was my biggest inspiration because of her eclectic and different approach to country music. She showed me exactly what I wanted to be when I would grow up. I moved to Nashville from Ohio not knowing a soul or anything in the city but a dream. Along the way, I have met some amazing people who have inspired me to keep going on in this industry. A producer by the name of Andrew Hansen came along my path and motivated me to keep going. He taught me everything I know about producing and mixing. I’m extremely grateful for him and have learned so much in the world of songwriting and music production.

Instagram: @its_called_whatever

Other: @its_called_whatever

Image Credits
Judah Sparkowhich (first six photos)

Two last photos are selfies and done by It’s called whatever!