Summary: OAKLAND, CA –Addiction. That’s the only word that comes to mind when you hear about Tamika Nicole’s attitude toward the music industry and her brand new single “Next To Me”. It’s been five years since the independent artist has released any music, but she’s back with a funky new track and new perspective on her role in music. “I took some time off because I needed to evaluate why I was doing music…not to mention I found myself unemployed and in jeopardy of losing everything” explains Tamika Nicole. Tamika took to Facebook with her very public struggle, engaging her nearly 2,000 followers in discussions about the local and global music scene, lack of support amongst musicians in the music community and performing for art versus your audience. Tamika did not always find a very sympathetic ear to her thoughts, but it did help her put her own path in perspective. “This was one of those times social media was a very positive force during hard times. In the process I figured out what was important to me and I believe I emerged an entrepreneur.” That meant no more music as usual. Tamika began producing her signature show-Ladies Rock Da Mic supporting local charities instead of just starring in concerts. She wrote a cookbook, and she honed in on her writing and music production skills. It’s the latter that makes her so proud of her new release “Next To Me”. “This song is a culmination of all I’ve learned about producing songs so far. This song was produced by up and coming Producer/Guitarist Cam Perridge. However, I had a big hand in producing this song from choosing the musicians as well as arranging backgrounds.
