Mila Jam
Words by Glenn Sargeant
Flamboyant vocalist Mila Jam has a powerful message and wants to be heard. Joining forces with streaming service Deezer, she has released a new single. She kindly took time out of her busy schedule to talk about all things music and Pop Culture with us
What was your reaction when the original songwriter Paul Schaffer supported the release? Did you get to speak to him or meet him?
I was overjoyed that Paul Schaffer gave his stamp of approval. We had lunch in New York City a few weeks after the song was released. He was just delightful. He shared with me the history of the original and how impressed he was with my version. Definitely, a moment I’ll never forget!
How did the collaboration with Deezer come about?
Deezer contacted my management about working on this project together! We teamed up after they met with the UK organization: Gendered Intelligence. We updated the lyrics to include everyone, turning “men” to “them”, and words such as “Tall, blonde, dark and lean / Rough and tough and strong and mean” to “Cool, bold, strong and keen / Proud and loud and here and seen.”
What kind of music did you listen to when you were growing up?
Lots of R&B, Pop & Soul. My mom loved Anita Baker, Patti Labelle, Regina Bell… my idols have always been Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Michael Jackson, Tina Turner, Brandy and more
In doing some research, I read that you once shared a stage with the late James Brown. Can you tell us about that experience?
Absolutely. I was fortunate enough to tour as a backup dancer for The Lady Miss Kier of Deee-lite. We were travelling in Australia with The Godfather himself. He always had rollers in his hair! One night the producers arranged a meet and greet. I talked to The James Brown! He mentioned that he saw me dancing and to keep doin my thang! It was priceless.
How do you look after your voice?
Lots of water! And green tea with honey. Vocal warmups are imperative and no smoking or hard drinking.
Do you play any musical instruments?
I played the alto saxophone in 6th grade
Geri Horner of the Spice Girls also threw her full support behind your single. With the Spice Girls being the ultimate girl band of the Nineties, which Spice Girl did you want to be?
Sporty!! I was a gymnast growing up and she was always so fit! I also loved Scary, Mel B.. were both a part of Rent the musical family.
Do you have any plans for a future EP/album release?
An album for sure soon!
What makes Mila Jam happy and what makes her unhappy?
Seeing Queer, Trans & Non-Binary folk getting paid for their work makes me happy!!! And, continuing to witness people’s disregard for black Trans women’s safety really upsets me.
