Amij

I'm originally from the mid-west (Wisconsin). I started out on the trumpet, at age 5, learning swing and jazz standards. Soon after, I was finally tall enough to reach the kick pedal on the kit and it was on!! ;-) I had to learn quickly how to split up my time between singing, playing my drums, playing the trumpet... and playing with my toys! ("Balance" in life IS so important!!) My father has always been a working musician so I just fell into the whole routine. They couldn’t keep me off of the stage. Eventually, the trumpet just gathered dust... and I focused only on the kit and on my voice. Since then, playing music has been a fulltime gig for me. Early in my career, I moved to Minneapolis to further pursue my musical and entertainment goals. I quickly found work in venues such as Glam Slam, Fine Line, and First Avenue… I was soon introduced to Jam & Lewis and had the opportunity to work directly with the record label Flyte Tyme. Simultaneously, I became affiliated with Prince’s studio, Paisley Park, and began working closely with musicians and artists associated with both entities. I was offered a position with Salt n’ Pepa’s all girl band “For Ya Pleasure” which brought me to Washington, DC. This all female group toured nationally and abroad with other national groups such as “Hi-Five” and R&B artist “Crystal Waters.” I appeared and performed on The Arsenio Hall Show and others. Music has allowed me to travel all over the world !! While I’ve been in the DC area, I’ve had the opportunity to work with some of the most accomplished musicians and vocalists! In my travels, I haven’t found any sound quite like the D.C. and NYC area. (I feel like a native Washingtonian!- I was converted fast!)Currently, I’m writing my own music and collaborating with other musicians. While I freelance with many other musicians and performers, I am still promoting my own band "Fusive Soul." I’m also developing my artwork, graphic design and advertising skills.