JTH: Yea I appreciate the variety. I was surprised to hear you rap on the single “Selah” because it’s such a mellow song, but it sounded really good. I saw that you had some nice features on the album as well. You were able to connect with RMG and had a song with Canon as well as Deraj. How did that RMG connection come about?
Rachael: Je’kob worked a lot with Deraj and he’s such a cool guy, and he worked with Canon as well. I didn’t meet them until SXSW (South by South West). Initially I didn’t want to do any features. Not because I did not want to work with anyone, but I just didn’t want to plan anything. I didn’t want to make a song that Canon would be on. I just wanted it to happen. But after I heard the tracks, Deraj and Canon stood out to me as features. So, I reached out to them and luckily, they were able to do it. Canon absolutely kills it on the track he did which I am extremely excited about. I also have Beleaf on there as well.
JTH: I think you did a good job with the features. I think they complement the album but don’t take away from you or overshadow you and your sound. It’s amazing how God put everything together, from the right producer, to the features, and your willingness to let God use you. We are excited about the album here at Jam The Hype. What’s next after the album drops? Any tours planned?
Rachael: I really don’t. I am just starting to open the door for that. I thought about using all my connections and getting as many placements as possible, but for whatever reason, I feel like God is telling me not to do it as much. I did this record because I feel like God told me to, and I’m trusting him through the process. I have done a lot of tours with the USO in the past where I have gone to Iraq, Kuwait, and Afghanistan, went to Italy, and performed for the troops with the Nappy Roots. So, I might reach out to the USO again. It was a huge blessing to be a part of that. In the past, we worked with the International Justice Mission in stopping human trafficking. I kinda want to focus on specific topics if I pursue anything, but if things come my way, I may be on board, but right now, I am taking it as it comes.
RELATED: The Washington Projects – Justus [Music Video]
JTH: Thank you so much for your time. I’m extremely excited about the album. I just wanted to give you an opportunity to tell everyone how they can stay in touch and where they can get the album.
Rachael: Well the album [came] out August 26. The name of the album is Honestly. You can download it everywhere…iTunes, Amazon, pretty much anywhere you can by digital music. Physical copies will only be available at shows, so if you come to a show you can get a physical copy. You can check out my blog where I talk about all the songs in detail as well as my life at www.Rachaelmessini.com. You can follow me on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, [and] Pinterest @rachaelmessini
JTH: Thank you so much for your time and sharing your heart and about the album.
Rachael: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure.
